Dessert

Tiramisu Chia Pudding (5-Minute, No Chilling) Recipe

ByIsabella Vance February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

Introduction

This Tiramisu Chia Pudding is a quick and delicious twist on the classic dessert, ready in just five minutes with no chilling required. It combines the rich flavors of espresso and cocoa with creamy plant-based ingredients for a delightful vegan treat you can enjoy anytime.

Four small clear glass cups hold a layered dessert, each cup showing two layers: a bottom layer of dark brown chia pudding with visible chia seeds, and a top layer of light creamy white topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. On top of each cup are thin dark chocolate curls arranged in a small pile. The cups sit closely together on a round white plate with a wooden texture, placed on a white marbled surface. Some scattered chia seeds and coffee beans are visible around the plate, adding detail. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 tablespoons chia seeds
1/2 cup hot water (not boiling)
2 tablespoons agave or maple syrup (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder
Pinch salt (optional)
1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as oat or soy)
1/4 cup vegan vanilla yogurt or vegan whipped cream
1 teaspoon cocoa powder (for dusting)
Optional: shaved dark chocolate or crushed vegan vanilla cookie like a graham cracker or vanilla wafer

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds and hot water. Stir well and let sit for 2 minutes. Initially watery, the mixture will begin to thicken within 30 seconds and become quite thick after 2 minutes. Stir again before adding milk to ensure it is clumpy; if not, wait an additional minute.
Step 2: Stir in the agave or maple syrup, vanilla extract, espresso powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Add the plant-based milk and stir again, breaking up any clumps. Let the pudding rest for another 2 to 3 minutes as the chia absorbs the liquid and thickens. If doubling the recipe, warming the plant-based milk before adding can help it set faster.
Step 3: Stir the pudding one last time and divide it between two small jars or glasses. Top each with 2 tablespoons of vegan vanilla yogurt or whipped cream and spread into an even layer. Dust with cocoa powder and optionally garnish with shaved dark chocolate or crushed vegan cookies. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Tips & Variations

Warm the plant-based milk slightly for faster setting, especially when making larger portions.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less agave or maple syrup according to taste.
For extra texture, sprinkle crushed vegan cookies between pudding layers if layering in a glass.
Try different plant-based milks like almond or cashew for subtle flavor changes.

Storage

Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if separation occurs. This pudding is best enjoyed chilled but can be eaten immediately after preparation as well. Reheat is not recommended as it may alter the texture.

How to Serve

Four clear glass cups sit on a round white plate with a slightly textured surface. Each cup has two main layers: a dark brown chia pudding at the bottom with visible seeds throughout, and a thick white creamy layer on top. The creamy layer is sprinkled evenly with cocoa powder, giving a speckled brown look. On top of each cup, there are small pieces of dark chocolate curls arranged in the center, adding texture and contrast. The background is a white marbled texture with a few scattered chia seeds and coffee beans near the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of plant-based milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk if you don’t need this recipe to be vegan. It will still work well and provide a creamy texture.

Do I have to use espresso powder?

Espresso powder adds the characteristic tiramisu flavor, but if you don’t have it, strong brewed coffee or instant coffee can be used as a substitute. It might slightly change the consistency due to added liquid if using brewed coffee.