Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup milk
- ½ ripe banana, mashed
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
How to Make
- Mix chia seeds, milk, mashed banana, and cinnamon.
- Stir until evenly combined.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Top with walnuts before serving.
🧊 Shelf Life / Fridge Life
Refrigerated:
- Best quality: 2–3 days
- Safe maximum: up to 4 days if kept tightly covered in an airtight container at ≤4°C / 40°F
Why doesn’t it last longer?
- The fresh banana oxidizes and can ferment faster than plain chia pudding
- Milk (especially dairy) shortens shelf life compared to plant-based milk
Tips to extend freshness:
- Use a very ripe but not overripe banana
- Store without the walnuts; add them right before eating
- If using plant-based milk (almond, oat, coconut), it often keeps closer to the 3–4 day mark
- Stir once daily if storing more than 1 day to maintain texture
Signs it’s no longer good:
- Sour or alcoholic smell
- Excess liquid separation with bubbles
- Slimy texture or off taste
🌱 Health & Nutrition Benefits
Chia Seeds
- High in fiber → supports digestion and fullness
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids → heart and brain health
- Provide plant protein and minerals like calcium and magnesium
Banana
- Natural sweetness → no added sugar needed
- Provides potassium for muscle and nerve function
- Contains prebiotic fiber to support gut health
Milk (Dairy or Plant-Based)
- Adds protein and calcium (dairy)
- Contributes to creaminess and satiety
- Plant-based options can reduce saturated fat and extend shelf life slightly
Cinnamon
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels
- Adds warmth and flavor without calories
Walnuts
- Source of healthy fats and antioxidants
- Support brain and heart health
- Add crunch and satisfaction
Overall Benefits
- Great make-ahead breakfast or snack
- Naturally sweet, no refined sugar
- Balanced combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein
- Keeps you full and energized for hours