Chia seeds in vegan desserts: 5 ideas to try
What's the story
Chia seeds are the ultimate superfood and a secret weapon in vegan desserts. These small but mighty seeds are full of nutrients and bring a fun texture to everything from puddings to cakes. Plus, they're an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. What's not to love? Read on for five delicious ways to use chia seeds in vegan desserts.
Pudding
Chia seed pudding: A simple delight
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy chia seeds is by making chia pudding. Just combine chia seeds with almond milk or coconut milk, let it sit overnight, and voila! You have a creamy, nutritious, and filling pudding. Add vanilla extract or cocoa powder for flavor, and top with fresh fruits or nuts for a satisfying crunch.
Muffins
Vegan chia muffins: Morning treats
Chia seeds can be used as a vegan egg substitute in baking recipes. They create a gelling effect when mixed with water, which is perfect for making moist and fluffy vegan muffins. Simply combine one tablespoon of chia seeds with three tablespoons of water to replace one egg in any muffin recipe. Add blueberries or chocolate chips for a tasty morning treat.
Energy bars
Chocolate chia energy bars: Snack on the go
If you need a pick-me-up without the refined sugars, these chocolate chia energy bars are your new go-to snack. Just blend chia seeds with oats, nuts, dates, and cocoa powder in a food processor until sticky. Then press the mixture into a pan, chill until set, and slice into bars. They're the perfect portable snack - healthy and delicious!
Cake
Lemon chia cake: Zesty dessert option
Chia seeds can work their magic in cakes too. For a refreshing dessert, bake a lemon chia cake by incorporating lemon zest and juice along with chia seeds into your batter. The outcome is a moist cake with bursts of lemon flavor throughout, ideal for summer picnics or afternoon tea.
Jam
Raspberry chia jam: A healthier spread
Finally, making jam doesn't mean you have to spend hours boiling fruit with sugar. Raspberry chia jam is easy to make by mashing up raspberries (fresh or frozen), then stirring in chia seeds and a little maple syrup if you like. The jam thickens nicely due to the gelling power of the chias, no need for added pectin or loads of sugar.