Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding Recipe
If you’re a fan of creamy, indulgent desserts that also pack a nutritional punch, you’re going to fall in love with this Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding Recipe. Combining the warm, aromatic spices of chai with the unique texture of basil seeds, this pudding is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert, this treat is sure to satisfy any craving while offering a delightful twist on traditional pudding.
Imagine waking up to the fragrant notes of chai tea, mingling with the soothing creaminess of coconut milk, and the fun texture of basil seeds. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
This Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding is not just another dessert; it’s a delightful experience. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back for more:
– Health Benefits: Basil seeds are known for their high fiber content, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer. Plus, they’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
– Flavor Explosion: The infusion of chai spices—cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom—creates a warm and comforting flavor profile that’s both exotic and familiar.
– Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness, spice levels, and even the type of milk used, making this pudding a staple in your kitchen.
– Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this pudding in advance for easy breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
What to Buy
Before you dive into this delicious recipe, here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 2 bags of chai tea
- 3 tablespoons basil seeds
- 1 1/4 cup coconut milk (or milk of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
Setup & Equipment
You don’t need fancy equipment to whip up this delightful pudding. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- Whisk or Spoon: To stir the mixture until well combined.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in your ingredients.
- Jars or Containers: To store the pudding in the fridge.
Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding Recipe Made Stepwise
Follow these simple steps to create your Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding:
Step 1: Brew the Chai
In a heatproof bowl, pour 3/4 cup of hot water over the 2 bags of chai tea. Let it steep for about 5-7 minutes to extract all those wonderful flavors. Once done, remove the tea bags and let the chai cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Basil Seeds
In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of basil seeds with the brewed chai. Stir well to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed. Allow the seeds to soak in the chai for about 15-20 minutes until they expand and become gelatinous.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 1/4 cup of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
Once the basil seeds have soaked, combine them with the coconut milk mixture. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Transfer the pudding mixture into jars or containers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the pudding to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, give the pudding a good stir before serving. You can top it with fresh fruits, nuts, or a sprinkle of extra spices for an added touch.
Make It Your Way
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize your Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding:
- Milk Substitutes: Feel free to use any milk of your choice, such as almond milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your preference. You can also use honey or agave syrup as alternatives.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cloves for a different flavor profile.
- Top It Off: Add toppings such as shredded coconut, granola, or seasonal fruits like mango or berries.
Steer Clear of These
While making your Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding, here are a few things to avoid:
- Over-soaking the basil seeds can lead to a very gelatinous texture; stick to the recommended soaking time.
- Using flavored or sweetened coconut milk may alter the intended flavor of the pudding.
- Skipping the chilling time will impact the consistency; it’s crucial for achieving that pudding-like texture.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers:
- Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If you find the pudding thickens too much after a few days, stir in a little extra milk to loosen it up before serving.
- Consider portioning out the pudding into individual jars for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different seeds instead of basil seeds?
While basil seeds are ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with chia seeds as an alternative. Keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk and maple syrup. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use are plant-based.
Can I make this pudding in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when made in advance as the flavors develop over time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with this pudding?
This pudding pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, or mangoes. You can also top it with nuts, granola, or a drizzle of additional maple syrup for extra flavor.
Serve & Enjoy
Once your Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding has chilled and thickened, it’s time to serve! Scoop it into bowls or jars, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy this delightful blend of flavors. Each bite will transport you to a cozy tea house, making it a wonderful treat any time of the day.
Whether you’re indulging in it for breakfast, enjoying it as a mid-afternoon snack, or serving it as a light dessert, this Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding Recipe will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Its unique flavors and textures make it a standout dish that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Happy pudding-making!
Chai Latte Basil Seed Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a heatproof bowl, pour 3/4 cup of hot water over the 2 bags of chai tea. Let it steep for about 5-7 minutes to extract all those wonderful flavors. Once done, remove the tea bags and let the chai cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of basil seeds with the brewed chai. Stir well to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed. Allow the seeds to soak in the chai for about 15-20 minutes until they expand and become gelatinous.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 1/4 cup of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
- Once the basil seeds have soaked, combine them with the coconut milk mixture. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Transfer the pudding mixture into jars or containers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the pudding to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After chilling, give the pudding a good stir before serving. You can top it with fresh fruits, nuts, or a sprinkle of extra spices for an added touch.
Notes
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If the pudding thickens too much, stir in a little extra milk before serving.
- Consider portioning out the pudding into individual jars for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
