Start with a cold base: Pour the unsweetened almond milk into a jar or bowl with a lid.
Cold liquid helps the chia set more evenly.
Add flavor and sweetness: Stir in the vanilla extract, sweetener, and a small pinch of salt. Taste the mixture; it should be slightly sweeter than you want the final pudding, since the sweetness softens as the chia absorbs.
Stir in the chia seeds: Sprinkle the chia seeds over the liquid while whisking. This helps prevent clumping and ensures a smooth texture.
Let it rest briefly: Wait 5 minutes, then whisk again.
This second stir breaks up any seeds starting to settle on the bottom or stick together.
Add cream (optional): For a richer pudding, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream. It creates a velvety finish and adds satisfying fat.
Chill to set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best texture. The pudding should be thick and spoonable.
Adjust the texture: If it’s too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of almond milk.
If it’s too thin, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon more chia, stir, and chill 15–20 minutes.
Top and serve: Add a small handful of low-carb toppings. Keep it simple with a few berries, nuts, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or coconut.