In a mixing bowl or a mason jar, combine the milk, chia seeds, vanilla, and any sweeteners you prefer (like maple syrup). Whisk or stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed and don’t clump together.
For the Apple Cinnamon Chia Pudding, add the cinnamon, ginger, and chopped apple to the mixture. Stir well. For the Fig Walnut version, mix in the butter, followed by the walnuts and chopped figs. For the Chocolate Date variety, add the cacao powder, chopped dates, and a pinch of salt. Stir each mixture until well combined.
Cover your bowls or jars and place them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and expand, creating the pudding-like consistency that we love.
After the pudding has set, give it a good stir. Top with your favorite garnishes: for the Apple Cinnamon version, add some apple sauce and a dollop of almond butter. For the Fig Walnut variety, top with extra figs and walnuts. And for the Chocolate Date version, slice a banana on top and sprinkle with cacao nibs, hemp seeds, yogurt, coconut, and a drizzle of honey. Enjoy your delicious chia pudding creations!