Spiced Vanilla Chia Pudding

It's September which in my head means it's safe to go ahead and call it fall and start doing all sorts of fall things (i.e. bring on the pumpkin!!). Too bad the weather here in Houston didn't get the memo because it's rather humid and hot still. I actually busted out the pumpkin at the end of August because I was testing a loaf of savory, herby bread. Since I didn't use all of it in the bread I decided to make some really delicious pumpkin pancakes. While devouring them I pretended it was fall and there was a brisk chill in the air even though it was about 90 degrees and the sun's rays were snaking across the floor trying to nip at my toes.

Fall has always been a really inspiring time for me. I think it's the overall theme of change that gets my brain and body working in a way that just doesn't happen in the summer. I feel like I get to slowly peel off the layers of what's accumulated and start fresh. I become a blank canvas, ready for all of the new experiences and moments of learning that lie ahead. It also doesn't hurt that fall brings with it my favorite sorts of foods, spices, and weather.

During times of change, I feel the need for a return to basics. Basics create a sort of base from which to build upon as well as providing some comfort and balance in their innate simplicity. For me a basic act can look like a walk outside, eating a warm bowl of oatmeal, or sipping my favorite cup of tea. These acts tend to be simple things in my life that keep me grounded no matter what the chaos may be around me.

This week, I decided to build upon the ever-humble chia pudding. At it's core, it's simply liquid and chia seeds. From there, you can add to the foundation to get nearly infinite results. This version was inspired by a bomb chia pudding I had at Toute Suite this summer. It was so luxuriously thick with just the right amount of sweetness that I dreamt about it for weeks afterwards. My version adds some warm spices to get you in the fall mood and uses some added probiotics to keep your gut and immune system happy. And bonus! The probiotics add a slight yogurt-like tang that makes you think you are eating a silky, creamy custard.

Spiced Vanilla Chia Pudding
notes: I emptied the contents of 2 probiotic capsules into my pudding mixture to amp up the health benefits but this is completely optional. It will be just as amazing without it! As for the coconut milk, the full fat variety will give you luxuriously thick results. If you want to watch your fat intake, use 1 3/4 cups of whatever plant milk variety you prefer. 

1 can full fat coconut milk
6 tbsp chia seeds
2-3 tbsp maple syrup (sweeten it to your taste)
1 tbsp vanilla extract or the seeds of 1 vanilla bean
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
contents of 2 probiotic capsules (optional)

toppings of your choosing -- I went with some lovely pluots and pistachios for mine

In a bowl or a large jar, mix together the coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, lemon juice, spices, and probiotics (if using). Stir in the chia seeds then place this mixture in the fridge at least 4 hours or overnight to let it thicken and gel.

When ready to eat, spoon some pudding into a bowl and top with whatever your heart desires. Or, make a parfait! Simply layer fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds with layers of the pudding in a glass or jar, then enjoy! Makes 4 servings.

If you are a banana fan, check out these banana chia pudding parfaits from the archives!