If you love the bold flavor of coffee and the creamy richness of tiramisu but want something lighter and more nourishing, this Tiramisu Chia Pudding is the perfect solution. It captures the essence of the classic Italian dessert while transforming it into a wholesome breakfast or snack. With layers of coffee-soaked chia pudding and a lightly sweetened cream topping, it feels indulgent yet remains balanced and nutritious.
The first time I prepared this, I was curious whether chia pudding could truly carry the deep espresso flavor associated with tiramisu. The answer was yes. Allowing the chia seeds to soak overnight in strong brewed coffee and milk created a thick, creamy texture that absorbed the flavor beautifully. A light layer of yogurt-based cream on top added that signature tiramisu element without making the dish overly heavy.
It is ideal for meal prep, busy mornings, or even a lighter dessert option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers the classic coffee and cocoa flavors of tiramisu in a protein-rich, fiber-packed format. It requires no baking and minimal preparation time. The texture is creamy and satisfying, while the coffee provides a gentle energy boost.
It is also highly customizable. You can adjust sweetness, dairy options, or even add a hint of chocolate for a more decadent version.
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Tiramisu Chia Pudding: A Creamy, Coffee-Infused Breakfast with a Dessert Twist
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and wholesome tiramisu-inspired chia pudding layered with coffee-soaked flavors, cocoa, and a lightly sweet mascarpone-style topping for a healthier twist on the classic dessert.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- For the Cream Layer:
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond milk, brewed coffee, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in chia seeds and mix well to prevent clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Once the chia pudding has set, stir well and layer into serving glasses.
- Add a layer of the cream mixture over the chia pudding.
- Repeat layers if desired, then dust the top with cocoa powder.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness to taste with more maple syrup or honey.
- Use decaf coffee if serving to children or sensitive to caffeine.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of mascarpone.
- Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chia seeds
The foundation of the pudding. They absorb liquid and expand to create a thick, creamy consistency while providing fiber and healthy fats.
Strong brewed coffee or espresso
Infuses the pudding with bold tiramisu flavor. Allow it to cool before mixing.
Milk
Adds creaminess and balances the intensity of the coffee. Dairy or plant-based milk both work well.
Maple syrup or honey
Provides natural sweetness without overpowering the coffee notes.
Vanilla extract
Enhances overall flavor and complements both coffee and cocoa.
For the cream layer:
Greek yogurt
Creates a lighter, protein-rich alternative to mascarpone while maintaining creamy texture.
Cream cheese
Adds richness and mimics the traditional tiramisu filling flavor.
Powdered sugar
Lightly sweetens the cream layer for balance.
Cocoa powder
Used for dusting on top, delivering the classic tiramisu finish.
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine chia seeds, cooled brewed coffee, milk, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly to prevent clumping. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to ensure even distribution of chia seeds.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until thickened.
For the cream layer, beat Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness if necessary.
To assemble, spoon a layer of chia pudding into serving glasses. Add a layer of the yogurt-cream mixture on top. Repeat layers if desired for a visually appealing presentation.
Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder just before serving.
Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filli
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This pudding is served cold and does not require reheating. Add cocoa powder just before serving for the freshest appearance.
Variations and Customizations
There are many ways to personalize this Tiramisu Chia Pudding. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk and substitute the cream layer with dairy-free yogurt and plant-based cream cheese.
If you prefer a richer dessert-style version, replace Greek yogurt with mascarpone cheese for a more authentic tiramisu flavor. Keep in mind this will increase calories and fat content.
For added texture, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings between layers. This enhances the dessert feel and pairs beautifully with coffee.
If you enjoy a stronger coffee flavor, increase the espresso concentration slightly or add a small pinch of instant espresso powder to the pudding mixture.
For a protein boost, stir a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder into the chia mixture before chilling. This makes it ideal as a post-workout meal.
You can also create a layered effect with crushed ladyfinger cookies between layers for a closer resemblance to traditional tiramisu.
To reduce sweetness, decrease maple syrup slightly and rely more on the natural creaminess of the yogurt layer.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Sugar | 15 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
This recipe is high in fiber and provides moderate protein, making it suitable for breakfast or a balanced snack. It can be adapted to gluten-free and vegetarian diets easily.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Whisk Twice
Stirring again after 5 minutes prevents chia clumping and ensures smooth texture.
Use Strong Coffee
A bold brew prevents the flavor from becoming diluted by milk.
Chill Overnight
Longer chilling improves thickness and flavor absorption.
Adjust Sweetness After Chilling
Taste once set and add additional sweetener if necessary.
Dust Cocoa Just Before Serving
This keeps the presentation clean and prevents moisture absorption.
FAQs
Can I use decaffeinated coffee?
Yes, decaf works perfectly if you want to avoid caffeine.
How long does chia pudding last?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use only Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Why is my pudding too thin?
It may need more time to chill or slightly more chia seeds.
Can I freeze this pudding?
Freezing is not recommended, as texture may change upon thawing.
Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is ideal for preparing in advance and portioning into jars.
Conclusion
Tiramisu Chia Pudding transforms the beloved flavors of a classic dessert into a nourishing, no-bake breakfast or snack. With its creamy texture, bold coffee notes, and light cocoa finish, it offers indulgence without heaviness. Simple to prepare and easy to customize, this recipe proves that wholesome ingredients can deliver sophisticated flavor in every spoonful.
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