Lemon Chia Parfait (View Print Version)

Layered lemon chia pudding with granola and raspberry compote—bright, make-ahead breakfast or light dessert.

# What You'll Need:

→ Lemon Chia Pudding

01 - 2 cups (480 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
02 - 1/3 cup (55 g) chia seeds
03 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
04 - 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
05 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup or honey
06 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Raspberry Compote

08 - 1 1/2 cups (180 g) fresh or frozen raspberries
09 - 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
10 - 1 tbsp lemon juice

→ Layers & Garnish

11 - 1 1/2 cups (120 g) granola
12 - Fresh raspberries and lemon zest, for garnish (optional)

# Method:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
02 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) until thick and pudding-like, stirring once after the first 15 minutes to prevent clumping.
03 - For the raspberry compote, combine raspberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the compote thickens. Let cool completely.
04 - To assemble, layer the lemon chia pudding, granola, and raspberry compote in 4 glasses or jars. Repeat layers as desired.
05 - Garnish with fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately for crunchier granola, or let sit for 10–15 minutes if you prefer it slightly softened.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The way the lemon and raspberry mingle feels like a sunny secret only you discovered.
  • Layering crunchy granola with creamy pudding is a satisfying ritual that never gets old.
02 -
  • Once, I skipped the mid-chill stir—and ended up with a stubborn clump of chia at the bottom, so don’t forget it.
  • Letting the raspberry compote cool is non-negotiable or you’ll melt your parfait layers into a puddle.
03 -
  • If the pudding seems thin after chilling, let it rest overnight for the thickest texture.
  • Warming the compote slightly before layering gives the parfait a cozy, dessert-like feel.