Enjoy a healthy twist on a classic with this easy tiramisu chia pudding. It has all the flavors of tiramisu and is the perfect breakfast that tastes like dessert!
A Healthy Twist on Tiramisu
Tiramisu is one of those desserts that feels so fancy, but let’s be real — it’s not something you’re whipping up on a random Tuesday. That’s where this tiramisu chia pudding comes in! It combines two of my favorite things, tiramisu and chia pudding, into one.
Chia pudding is made by mixing chia seeds with liquid and letting them soak for a few hours or overnight. The chia seeds gel up and create a thick, pudding-like texture. You can also add any flavorings and toppings for variety.
This tiramisu-inspired version features rich, coffee-flavored chia pudding topped with creamy vegan yogurt and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for meal prep — whether you’re making one serving for tomorrow or a batch for the week ahead.
I'm usually not one to hop on trends, but when tiramisu chia pudding started going viral, I knew I had to try it! And let me tell you, it does not disappoint. It has all the flavors you love from the classic Italian dessert — coffee, cocoa, and creamy goodness — with a healthier twist. If you're a tiramisu lover too, this one’s a must-try. Might as well call it chia-misu. 😉
Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even dessert, this chia pudding feels fancy without the effort. I can’t wait for you to try it!
If you love all things tiramisu, you’ll also enjoy my tiramisu overnight oats!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy: Prep it in just 10 minutes with only 5 ingredients.
- Balanced treat: This tiramisu chia pudding tastes like dessert, but thanks to the chia seeds, it’s packed with fiber, omega-3s, some protein, and key minerals and antioxidants. Plus, you're getting gut-friendly probiotics from the yogurt and an energy boost from the coffee.
- Vegan & gluten-free: Made with non-dairy yogurt for all the creamy goodness — no dairy required — and naturally gluten-free.
- Perfect for meal prep: Whip up a batch to grab for breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
- Visually stunning: The layered presentation makes this chia pudding look like it came straight out of a café! And let’s be honest — eating a pretty breakfast just makes your day better.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Would you believe that this fancy-looking chia pudding is made with just five ingredients? Here's what you need:
- Chia seeds: The star ingredient! These tiny but mighty seeds thicken as they soak, creating a pudding-like texture while providing fiber, omega-3 fats, and some protein.
- Non-dairy yogurt: Gives the chia pudding an extra creamy texture and acts as the “mascarpone-style” topping inspired by traditional tiramisu. I like using Silk Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk Yogurt in this recipe, but soy or coconut yogurt are also great. Vanilla-flavored or plain both work — if using plain, you may want to add a splash of vanilla extract. I recommend unsweetened yogurt to keep it refined sugar-free.
- Espresso: One shot of espresso brings the rich, bold coffee flavor tiramisu is known for. Don’t have an espresso machine? Strong brewed coffee or instant espresso mixed with hot water work just as well. Decaf works too if you’re avoiding caffeine.
- Maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and really brings out the best of all the flavors in this chia pudding. Maple syrup is my favorite here, but any sweetener will work.
- Cocoa powder: A final dusting on top ties everything together and gives this chia pudding that classic tiramisu vibe. I like to add extra because it's just too good!
Find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below.
Variation Ideas
Make this tiramisu chia pudding your own with these fun variations:
- Extra coffee kick: Add a little more espresso for a bolder coffee flavor — perfect for true tiramisu lovers.
- Rum extract: Add a small splash for a subtle, classic tiramisu-inspired flavor (similar to the rum used in traditional tiramisu).
- Chocolate chia pudding: Mix a teaspoon of cocoa powder into the chia base for a deeper, chocolatey twist.
- High-protein version: Use a high-protein non-dairy yogurt (like soy yogurt or one with added pea protein), or stir a scoop of vanilla or unflavored plant-based protein powder into the chia mixture. Protein powder will thicken the mixture, so you may need to add a splash of non-dairy milk. And because protein powder adds sweetness, you may want to reduce or omit the maple syrup to taste.
How to Make Tiramisu Chia Pudding
This tiramisu chia pudding is deceptively easy to make! Here’s how:
Step 1: Add the chia seeds, yogurt, espresso, and maple syrup to a bowl, container, or mason jar.
Step 2: Stir until well combined. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to break up any clumps of chia seeds. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best) to thicken.
Step 3: Remove the chia pudding from the fridge and give it a good stir. Top it with a few dollops of non-dairy yogurt and spread evenly.
Step 4: Use a fine-mesh strainer to dust cocoa powder on top. Enjoy!
Chloe's Tips
- Mix well: After combining the chia pudding ingredients, let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then stir again. Give it one final stir before serving to prevent clumps and create a smooth, even pudding texture.
- Let it set: Patience is key! The chia seeds need at least 2 hours (overnight is even better) to fully thicken into a pudding texture.
- For a smoother texture: If you don't like the seedy texture of chia pudding, just blend the chia pudding ingredients in a blender until super smooth before soaking.
- Serve in style: Use a glass cup or jar to show off the pretty layers. These small 8-ounce jars are perfect!
Topping Ideas
The right finish can take this tiramisu chia pudding from amazing to next-level indulgent. Here are some fun toppings to try:
- Fresh berries: Add a pop of color with strawberries or raspberries! They provide a refreshing contrast to the coffee and cocoa flavors.
- Granola: Sprinkle your favorite granola on top for crunch and texture — it pairs perfectly with the creamy chia pudding and yogurt.
- Cookies: Crumble vegan vanilla cookies over the pudding for a ladyfinger-inspired vibe inspired by classic tiramisu.
- Grated dark chocolate: Shave your favorite dark chocolate bar over the top for an extra fancy touch.
- Coconut whipped cream: A dollop of store-bought or homemade coconut whip (or the spray kind) makes this chia pudding even more decadent.
- Nuts: Add sliced almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch that complements the creamy layers.
How to Store & Meal Prep
Store the chia pudding in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can add the yogurt layer on top, but wait until the chia pudding has thickened. Dust with cocoa powder just before serving for the best presentation.
This recipe makes one serving, but you can easily double or triple it for meal prep. Do not freeze — it will alter the creamy texture.
More Dessert-Inspired Breakfasts
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Thank you!
–Chloe
Tiramisu Chia Pudding
By Chloe MartinIngredients
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ⅔ cup non-dairy yogurt (plain or vanilla; extra for topping)
- 1 shot (1 ounce or 2 tablespoons) espresso (see notes for substitutions)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (omit if using sweetened yogurt)
- ½ teaspoon cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a container or mason jar, add chia seeds, yogurt, espresso, and maple syrup. Stir until thoroughly combined. Let sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to break up any clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best). The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and turn into a thick, pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from the fridge and stir. Top with a layer of yogurt and a dusting of cocoa powder and serve.
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