Name: Overnight Banana Bread Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 1 cup milk of choice; 1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional)

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I make this Overnight Banana Bread Chia Pudding when I want all the cozy flavors of banana bread in a nourishing, make-ahead breakfast. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with wholesome ingredients that keep me full and satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe lets me enjoy the comforting taste of banana bread without turning on the oven. I mix everything in one bowl, let it sit overnight, and wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast. The chia seeds create a thick, pudding-like texture while the ripe banana adds natural sweetness. I also appreciate how easy it is to customize with toppings like nuts, yogurt, or extra fruit. It’s perfect for busy mornings when I want something filling but effortless. Overnight Banana Bread Chia Pudding

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 cup milk of choice
1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions

I mash the ripe bananas in a medium bowl until smooth.
I stir in the chia seeds, milk, yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
I mix everything well to make sure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
I fold in the chopped walnuts if I am using them.
I cover the bowl or divide the mixture into jars with lids.
I refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, but I prefer to leave it overnight so it thickens fully.
In the morning, I give it a good stir and add my favorite toppings before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours to overnight
Total time: about 4 hours 10 minutes (or overnight)

Variations

I sometimes add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to create a chocolate banana version. When I want extra protein, I stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and add a splash more milk to keep the texture creamy. For a nuttier flavor, I mix in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter. If I want extra texture, I top it with granola or toasted coconut just before serving. Overnight Banana Bread Chia Pudding

storage/reheating

I store the chia pudding in an airtight container or sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I do not reheat it since I prefer it cold, but if I want it slightly warm, I let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before eating. I always stir it well before serving because the chia seeds can settle.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

I can use frozen bananas as long as I thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

I make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and dairy-free yogurt. It still turns out creamy and delicious.

Why is my chia pudding too thin?

If my pudding is too thin, I usually add another teaspoon of chia seeds, stir well, and let it chill for another hour or two.

Can I make it sweeter?

If I prefer a sweeter pudding, I add a little more maple syrup, honey, or even a few chocolate chips.

Can I meal prep this for the week?

I often double the recipe and portion it into individual jars. It keeps well in the fridge for several days, which makes my mornings much easier.

Conclusion

I find this Overnight Banana Bread Chia Pudding to be one of the simplest and most satisfying breakfasts I can prepare ahead of time. It gives me the comforting flavor of banana bread with the convenience of a grab-and-go meal. Whenever I want something wholesome, filling, and easy, this recipe is one I happily return to again and again.