Ingredients

1/3 cup unsweetened plain plant-based yogurt

3 tbsp apple butter

1 medjool date

1 tsp yellow miso paste (optional)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp cardamom

1/4 tsp kosher salt or more to taste

3/4 cup soy milk

1/3 cup chia seeds

3 tbsp gluten-free rolled oats

3 tbsp walnuts or pecans

2 medjool dates

2 apples, diced or thinly sliced

2 tsp maple syrup

1/4 tsp cinnamon (for apples)

Instructions

Step 1: In a blender cup, combine the plant-based yogurt, apple butter, medjool date, yellow miso paste (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and soy milk. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth.

Step 2: Pour chia seeds into a storage container or bowl. Pour the blended milk mixture over the seeds and whisk well. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again thoroughly to remove clumps. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: For the crumble, place the rolled oats, walnuts or pecans, two medjool dates, and a pinch of salt into a mini food processor. Pulse until the mixture forms crumbly bits to your liking.

Step 4: To make the stewed apples, heat a sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the diced or sliced apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes, adding extra splashes of water as needed, until the apples soften and most liquid evaporates.

Step 5: To assemble, divide the chia pudding evenly into 3 jars. Top each with the stewed apples, then sprinkle with the oat and nut crumble. Optionally, add a spoonful of extra apple butter and a drizzle of maple syrup before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use any plant-based milk you prefer, such as almond or oat milk, to suit your taste and dietary needs.

For a bit of extra texture, try toasting the oats and nuts lightly before pulsing into a crumble.

If yellow miso paste is unavailable, you can omit it; it adds subtle umami but the pudding will still be delicious without.

Replace medjool dates with any soft dried fruit, like raisins or chopped figs, if desired.

FAQs

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chia pudding and stewed apples in advance. The pudding needs at least an hour to thicken but can be made the night before for convenience.

Can I use fresh apples for the crumble topping?

This recipe uses a cooked stewed apple topping for softness and warmth. For a fresh twist, you could add thinly sliced raw apples, but the texture and flavor will differ from the traditional stewed version.