Irresistible Apple Crumble Chia Pudding : The Best Healthy Fall Breakfast

Posted on December 1, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

an apple crumble chia pudding in a glass bowl

If you love cozy fall flavors and nutrient-packed breakfasts, this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is about to become your new favorite. Combining the comforting warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with the creamy texture of chia seeds, this recipe is a wholesome way to start your day. Whether you’re into healthy chia breakfast recipes, fall dessert meal prep, or just need an excuse to enjoy apple pie for breakfast, this one is for you.

This chia pudding also fits perfectly into your weekly routine as a make-ahead fall breakfast. It’s great for those busy mornings when you want something both satisfying and quick. Plus, if you’re already a fan of treats like pumpkin baked oatmeal or chocolate chip pumpkin pancakes, you’ll adore the balance of sweetness and spice in this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chia Breakfast Recipe

This is more than just a breakfast — it’s a nutrient-rich, dessert-like delight with plenty of reasons to make it again and again:

  • Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
  • Vegan and gluten-free
  • Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3s
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved
  • Perfect for fall meal prep

It’s like eating a slice of apple crisp with oatmeal — but healthy, portable, and packed with superfoods.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

This recipe uses pantry staples and seasonal ingredients. No complicated shopping list required!

For the Chia Pudding:

  • 1/4 cup chia seeds (40g)
  • 1 cup almond milk or plant-based milk (240ml)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (15ml)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Apple Topping:

  • 1 apple, peeled and diced (about 150g)
  • 1/2 tbsp coconut oil (7g)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (5ml)

For the Oat Crumble:

  • 2 tbsp rolled oats (12g)
  • 1 tbsp almond flour (8g)
  • 1/2 tbsp melted coconut oil (7g)
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (5ml)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon

How to Make Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

This recipe comes together in four simple steps, making it ideal for those looking for easy chia seed meals or a fruit-based breakfast.

Step 1: Prepare the Chia Pudding
In a bowl or mason jar, mix the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir well, let sit for 5 minutes, stir again to break up clumps, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Cinnamon Apples
In a skillet, melt the coconut oil and sauté the diced apple with cinnamon and maple syrup for 5–7 minutes until tender and fragrant. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Crumble
Combine oats, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until crumbly. You can toast this mixture in a pan for 3–5 minutes for extra crunch, similar to how you’d prep toppings in this pumpkin twists recipe.

Step 4: Assemble
Layer your chia pudding into serving jars, add a spoonful of warm cinnamon apples, then top with oat crumble. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this autumn food recipe healthy and fast:

  • Mixing bowl
  • Mason jar or airtight container
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Optional: baking sheet or toaster oven if you want to bake the crumble.

Make Ahead Fall Breakfast Tips

This pudding is a meal prep dream. Store individual portions in jars in the fridge for up to five days. For optimal texture, keep the crumble separate and sprinkle on just before serving.

This idea works just like our make-ahead breakfast bowls, which also allow you to prep breakfast for the entire week.

Nutrition Highlights of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are a powerhouse ingredient, making this one of the best chia seed meals you can eat:

  • Fiber: Helps digestion and promotes fullness
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Great for heart and brain health
  • Plant-based Protein: Keeps energy levels stable
  • Calcium & Iron: Supports bone and blood health

Pairing them with fresh apples, oats, and cinnamon makes this dish as nourishing as it is tasty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like this can go wrong if you miss a step. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Not stirring chia seeds twice: Prevent clumping by stirring once after 5 minutes
  • Adding too little liquid: Stick to the 1:4 chia-to-liquid ratio
  • Overcooking apples: You want them tender, not mushy
  • Soggy crumble: Store separately and toast if you like it crunchy
  • Serving before it sets: Let it chill for the right texture

If you’ve ever tried recipes like pumpkin pie overnight oats, the process is very similar.

How to Serve & Style Your Chia Pudding

Presentation can turn a good breakfast into a great one. Serve your chia pudding in:

  • Clear mason jars to showcase the layers
  • Mini glass cups for elegant brunch gatherings
  • Meal prep containers for grab-and-go

Top with extras like chopped walnuts, pecans, or a spoonful of fruit dip for added flair.

Flavor Variations and Swaps

Customize your chia pudding with these creative changes:

  • Swap the apple for pear or berries
  • Use pumpkin puree in the pudding and top with pumpkin cheesecake cookies crumbs
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
  • Use coconut yogurt for extra creaminess
  • Replace almond flour with sunflower seed meal for a nut-free version

Looking for more seasonal flavors? You might enjoy these mini pumpkin bread with cinnamon swirl for a side treat.

Storing and Reheating Tips

  • Chia pudding: Refrigerate for up to 5 days
  • Apple topping: Store separately in the fridge for 3 days
  • Crumble topping: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days

To serve warm, heat the apple topping gently before assembling.

What to Serve with Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

This fall meal prep breakfast pairs well with:

It’s also lovely next to a slice of apple pie dip with cinnamon sugar chips for dessert-inspired variety.

FAQs About Apple Crumble Chia Pudding

Can I use ground chia seeds?
Yes, but the pudding will have a smoother texture, almost like mousse.

Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely! It’s naturally sweet and fun to eat. Try pairing with apple fritter donuts for an indulgent but still wholesome combo.

Can I freeze it?
Not recommended. Chia pudding doesn’t freeze well as the texture separates.

Is it good for meal prep?
Yes! It’s ideal for prepping several breakfasts at once, just like our tater tot breakfast bowl.

Final Thoughts – Share & Subscribe

This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a celebration of everything we love about fall: warmth, flavor, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a healthy dessert, or a make-ahead meal, this chia pudding delivers every time.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out more breakfast ideas and seasonal creations. Don’t forget to share this post and subscribe to the blog to stay updated on fresh, healthy recipes every week.

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Irresistible Apple Crumble Chia Pudding – A Cozy Fall Breakfast


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a cozy, wholesome, and nutrient-packed fall breakfast that tastes like dessert while fueling your body with fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3s. With layers of creamy chia pudding, warm cinnamon apples, and a crunchy oat crumble, it’s the perfect make-ahead autumn breakfast for busy mornings. Vegan, gluten-free, naturally sweetened, and ideal for meal prep, this comforting chia pudding brings all the best fall flavors into every spoonful.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chia Pudding:

  • 1/4 cup chia seeds (40g)
  • 1 cup almond milk (240ml)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (15ml)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Apple Topping:

  • 1 apple, peeled and diced (150g)
  • 1/2 tbsp coconut oil (7g)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (5ml)

For the Crumble Topping:

  • 2 tbsp rolled oats (12g)
  • 1 tbsp almond flour (8g)
  • 1/2 tbsp coconut oil, melted (7g)
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (5ml)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Ingredient Notes & Variations:

  • Use oat or coconut milk instead of almond milk.
  • Try pears instead of apples for a seasonal swap.
  • Add raisins or cranberries to the apple mixture.
  • Make nut-free using sunflower seed flour.
  • Sprinkle flax or hemp seeds for extra nutrition.

Instructions

  1. Make the Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir, wait 5 minutes, stir again, then refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Cook the Cinnamon Apples: Melt coconut oil in a pan. Add diced apples, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Cook 5–7 minutes until soft and caramelized. Cool.
  3. Make the Crumble: Mix oats, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon until crumbly. Optionally toast for extra crunch.
  4. Assemble: Layer chia pudding, cinnamon apples, and crumble topping. Serve immediately or store for later.

Notes

  • Stir chia pudding twice to avoid clumping.
  • Use the exact chia-to-milk ratio for proper texture.
  • Keep toppings separate until serving for maximum crunch.
  • Apples should be soft but not mushy.
  • Best enjoyed chilled, but can be gently warmed if desired.
  • Perfect for meal prep—stores well for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-Cook / Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Healthy / Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 jar (approx.)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Apple Crumble Chia Pudding, Healthy Chia Breakfast Recipe, Fall Breakfast, Vegan Breakfast, Meal Prep Chia Pudding, Cinnamon Apple Chia Pudding, Autumn Healthy Recipes

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