Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures tropical sunshine in every bite, let me introduce you to my obsession-worthy Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding. This treat brings together tangy key lime zing, a whisper of vanilla, and the irresistible silkiness of coconut, all layered over chia seeds that magically bloom in creamy almond milk. With a pillowy key-lime mousse on top and bright citrus zest throughout, it’s an uplifting twist on classic pie—only lighter, healthier, and somehow even more refreshing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding couldn’t be easier, but each adds something truly special. The chia seeds provide that signature, textured base, while bright limes elevate the flavor profile. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why every part counts:

• Chia Seeds: These little superstars expand to create a pudding-like texture full of fiber and omega-3s.
• Almond Milk: Light and subtly sweet, almond milk is the perfect backdrop for our bright citrusy pudding.
• Zest of 3 Key Limes (or 1 regular lime): Infuses the chia pudding with intense lime fragrance and flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a gentle natural sweetness that balances tart lime.
• Vanilla Extract: This tiny addition offers warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Raw Cashews: When soaked and blended, cashews create the rich, creamy mousse layer that mimics classic pie filling.
• Coconut Milk (Full Fat, from a Can): Lends decadent richness and smooth consistency to the mousse.
• More Maple Syrup: Sweetens the mousse just enough so that each bite tastes indulgent, not sugary.
• Key-Lime Juice (or Lime Juice): Delivers the tart, lively “zing” we can’t get enough of in any good key lime pie.
• Zest of 2 Key Limes (or 1 regular lime): Dials up the citrus in the creamy mousse layer.
• Matcha Powder (Optional): Adds a gentle green hue, making the top layer extra vibrant without affecting flavor.

How to Make Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding

Step 1: Mix Up the Chia Pudding Base

In a mixing bowl, stir together the chia seeds, almond milk, lime zest, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Give it a good whisk for about 30 seconds; this breaks up any clumps and ensures the seeds soak up flavors evenly. You’ll notice the lime aroma blooming already—instant mood boost!

Step 2: Let It Chill and Set

Pop your bowl into the fridge and let the magic happen for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you’re prepping ahead. The chia seeds will swell, turning the mixture delightfully thick. The hands-off time is perfect for busy days or when you want dessert to greet you after dinner.

Step 3: Create the Key Lime Mousse Layer

After soaking, drain your cashews and blend them with coconut milk, maple syrup, lime juice, lime zest, and (if you like a bright green color) a dash of matcha powder. Keep blending until it’s velvety-smooth—scraping down the sides as necessary. The goal: a mousse that looks and tastes like a whipped slice of key lime pie!

Step 4: Assemble Your Puddings

Spoon that thick, creamy chia pudding into four cute jars or glasses, then pour the dreamy key lime mousse right over the top. Each layer gets its own moment to shine, both visually and on your spoon.

Step 5: Final Chill and Set

Back into the fridge they go, this time for about 2 more hours. By the end, your Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding is ready to serve chilled and utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding

Garnishes

Dress up these pudding cups with a flourish! A scattering of extra lime zest, a dollop of coconut whipped cream, or a few graham cracker crumbs can make your Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding look as festive as it tastes. A sprig of mint also adds a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

For a brunch table or dessert plate, offer crisp biscotti, buttery shortbread cookies, or a platter of fresh strawberries alongside your pudding jars. Their gentle flavors pair beautifully with the tangy richness of the pudding.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dessert into a party by serving Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding in mini mason jars, cocktail glasses, or even hollowed lime halves for a fun citrus “bowl.” For gatherings, you can layer everything in one big trifle dish and let everyone scoop their own portion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding tightly covered in the fridge for up to five days. The flavors deepen over time, making each day’s snack (or breakfast!) even better than the last. Give it a quick stir if the layers separate a tad.

Freezing

This pudding freezes like a dream! Spoon individual portions into airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and the texture will be creamy and mousse-like once again. It’s a lifesaver for meal prep or future cravings.

Reheating

No need to reheat, as Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding is best served cold. If you prefer a slightly room-temperature dessert, just leave your portion on the counter for 10-15 minutes before digging in, but keep it cool for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute another nut for the cashews?

Cashews are ideal because they blend ultra-creamy with a neutral flavor, but raw macadamia nuts are a nice substitute. Almonds don’t get quite as smooth, so stick with cashews or macadamias for that dreamy mousse effect.

Is it possible to use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, absolutely! While key limes have a unique floral tang, regular limes work beautifully and are much easier to find. Just use the same measurements and zest, and your Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding will still taste vibrant and zesty.

How do I make this recipe nut-free?

Swap the cashews and almond milk for sunflower seed butter (for the mousse) and oat or coconut milk (for the chia pudding). The result will be just as creamy and delicious, but perfect for nut-free households.

Can I prepare Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding in advance?

Definitely! In fact, making it ahead gives the flavors a chance to really meld. Assemble the full dessert up to two days in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and serve when ready for a fuss-free treat.

What’s the best way to get the lime zest without bitterness?

Use a microplane or fine zester, being careful to remove only the green outer layer and not the white pith beneath. The pith can be bitter, but the zest itself is packed with bright, aromatic oils that make your Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding truly shine.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding for yourself! Every spoonful is a celebration—tangy, creamy, and so satisfying, it’s guaranteed to brighten up even the cloudiest day. Give it a go, get creative with your toppings, and let your taste buds take a mini vacation!

Print