Easy First Watch Chia Pudding Recipe At Home

From a chef’s perspective, the magic of a good chia pudding lies in the texture. It’s all about hydration and timing.

The version I enjoyed at First Watch had that ideal balance—neither too thick nor too runny, with every spoonful creamy and smooth.

I took that inspiration and built my own First Watch Chia Pudding Recipe, focusing on achieving a professional-level consistency at home. The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced skills—just a good understanding of how chia seeds work.

What Is First Watch Chia Pudding?

If you’ve ever visited a First Watch restaurant, you might’ve seen their A.M. Superfoods Bowl on the menu. It’s their signature Chia Pudding Bowl, made with coconut milk chia seed pudding layered with organic granola, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of honey.

It’s one of those breakfast options that manages to feel like a treat while still being incredibly nutritious. The chia seeds provide fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, helping with heart health and digestion.

The fruit toppings bring Vitamin C, potassium, and a touch of brightness.

The best part? This homemade First Watch Chia Seed Pudding Recipe tastes almost identical — and you can make it anytime without waiting in line at a café.

Copycat First Watch Chia Pudding Recipe At Home

This First Watch Chia Pudding Recipe is an easy, no-cook breakfast inspired by the famous First Watch Superfoods Bowl. It’s creamy, naturally sweetened with honey and maple syrup, and topped with bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and crunchy granola. It’s one of those superfood recipes that feels indulgent but is actually loaded with fiber, protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1½ to 2 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: About 2 hours
• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Healthy Dessert
• Cuisine: American Café-style
• Yield: 2 bowls
• Calories Per Serving: ~250–300 (varies by toppings)

Ingredients

This chia pudding recipe is made with just a few pantry staples — no fancy equipment required.

For The Chia Pudding Base:

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (use canned or barista-style for creaminess)
• ½ cup chia seeds
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp honey (or substitute with maple syrup for vegan version)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For Toppings:

• ¼ cup mixed berry jam or fruit compote
• 1 banana, sliced
• ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup blueberries
• ½ to 1 cup granola (plain or coconut flavor works beautifully)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutes

• Coconut Milk: This gives the pudding that rich and creamy texture just like the one served at First Watch. You can substitute almond, soy, or oat milk for a lighter texture, but you’ll lose a bit of the lusciousness.
• Chia Seeds: Make sure your chia seeds are fresh — older seeds can sometimes fail to absorb liquid properly. Both black and white chia seeds work fine.
• Sweeteners: I love combining honey and maple syrup for a balanced, earthy sweetness. You can use agave or date syrup if you prefer.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the pudding. Skip it if you want a plainer flavor, or swap it for a dash of almond extract.
• Toppings: Bananas and berries give you potassium, Vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. Granola adds crunch and healthy fats. Feel free to swap or mix depending on what fruit you have on hand.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Let’s make your own First Watch Chia Pudding Bowl from scratch.

Step 1: Mix The Base

In a medium bowl, combine the coconut milk, maple syrup, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk it gently until it’s smooth and slightly frothy. This helps distribute the sweetness evenly.

Step 2: Add The Chia Seeds

Sprinkle in the chia seeds and stir well to combine. Make sure no seeds clump together — every little seed should be surrounded by liquid.

Step 3: Let It Rest And Stir Again

Let the mixture sit for about 10–15 minutes, then give it another good stir. This helps the seeds settle evenly and prevents clumping.

Step 4: Chill To Thicken

Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 1½ to 2 hours. If you can, leave it overnight — the texture gets creamier as it rests.

Step 5: Assemble Your Chia Pudding Bowls

Once the pudding is thickened, give it one final stir. Spoon it into two serving bowls. Add a layer of mixed berry jam or compote, then top with granola, banana slices, strawberries, and blueberries.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Serve cold. Every spoonful should give you creamy chia, fruity sweetness, and crunchy granola — that perfect pudding texture that makes this dish feel like a treat.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Here’s how I like to serve my Chia Pudding First Watch-style bowl:

• Add a slice of whole-grain toast with almond butter or peanut butter on the side — just like they do at First Watch.
• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
• For a dessert twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate or nut butter over the top.
• Pair it with a cup of green tea, cold brew, or fresh orange juice.
• Layer it in a mason jar if you’re taking breakfast to go — it keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

What Happens If I Eat Chia Seed Pudding Every Day?

This question comes up a lot, and it’s a good one. Here’s what happens if you eat chia pudding regularly:

The Good:

• Better Gut Health: Chia seeds are packed with fiber, which supports digestion, prevents constipation, and helps maintain gut balance.
• Heart Health Benefits: The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds can help lower cholesterol and support heart disease prevention.
• More Energy: The mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates provides steady energy throughout the morning.
• Immunity Boost: Thanks to antioxidants and nutrients from the fruits and seeds, it can help strengthen your immune system.
• Satiety: The high fiber and protein keep you full for hours, making it a great breakfast option for busy mornings.

What to Watch Out For:

• If you don’t hydrate enough, chia seeds can absorb water in your stomach and make you feel bloated. Always drink water along with your pudding.
• Watch your toppings — too much jam or sugary granola can turn a healthy breakfast into a dessert bomb.
• Moderation is key. It’s great to have chia pudding a few times a week but balance it with other meals rich in varied nutrients.

What’s The Perfect Ratio For Chia Pudding?

The magic ratio I’ve found after many experiments is 1 cup liquid : ½ cup chia seeds.

This gives you a pudding that’s creamy, slightly thick, and spoonable — not runny or pasty.

The chia seeds need enough liquid to fully expand and create that signature jelly-like coating. If you want it thinner, add a few tablespoons of extra milk. For thicker pudding, reduce the liquid slightly.

I once made the mistake of eyeballing it — let’s just say I ended up with something closer to concrete than pudding. So measure properly and stir well for that perfect texture!

Personal Touch & Expert Tips

Here are the small lessons that made my chia pudding better each time:

• Stir Twice: Always stir once after mixing and again after 10–15 minutes before chilling. It prevents clumping and gives that velvety texture.
• Don’t Overdo Sweeteners: Chia pudding absorbs flavor, so start light — you can always drizzle more honey before serving.
• Layer Smart: Keep granola separate until just before serving, so it stays crunchy.
• For Extra Creaminess: Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the mix before chilling. It gives a thicker, richer texture.
• Fresh is Best: Use ripe fruit for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Make Ahead: This pudding is perfect for meal prep — make a batch, store it in jars, and you have ready-to-eat breakfasts all week.

Health Benefits At A Glance

Here’s a quick look at what makes this Superfood Recipe such a powerhouse:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Good for heart health
• Fiber – Supports digestion and gut health
• Protein – Keeps you full and energized
• Antioxidants – Boost immunity
• Healthy Fats – Great for brain and heart function
• Vitamins & Minerals – Bananas (potassium), berries (Vitamin C), and granola (iron & magnesium)

It’s not just a pudding — it’s a Superfoods Bowl your body will thank you for.

If you’ve been missing that First Watch breakfast vibe at home, this First Watch Chia Pudding Recipe will absolutely hit the spot. It’s simple, wholesome, and endlessly customizable. I’ve made it countless times for busy mornings, brunch with friends, or even as a light dessert after dinner.

Try it once, and you’ll see why chia pudding is one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you — leave a comment or tag me if you make it!

Frequently Asked Questions