Lemon Cream Chia Pudding: The Zesty, No-Bake Delight You Need

Welcome to your new favorite healthy breakfast, snack, or light dessert! If you are searching for a treat that perfectly balances creamy indulgence with bright, tangy flavor, look no further than this incredible Lemon Cream Chia Pudding. It’s a recipe that marries the incredible nutritional power of chia seeds with the refreshing zing of fresh lemon, all topped off with a thick, luscious, dairy-free or dairy-rich cream layer. This recipe is designed for ease, requiring absolutely no cooking, making it ideal for meal prep and busy mornings. Say goodbye to heavy, complicated desserts and hello to the vibrant taste of sunshine in a jar!

The beauty of this Lemon Cream Chia Pudding lies in its simplicity and its layered texture. The base is a silky, subtly sweet chia pudding, rich with coconut milk and vanilla. The star, however, is the thick, tart, and intensely flavorful lemon cream topping. When these two layers meet, they create a harmony that is reminiscent of a deconstructed lemon cheesecake or a lightened-up lemon meringue pie. Whether you need an energizing start to your day or a guilt-free indulgence after dinner, this pudding delivers satisfaction without the sugar crash. Get ready to transform your refrigerator staples into a dazzling, healthy delicacy.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Chia Pudding Recipe

This isn’t just another overnight pudding recipe; it’s an elevated experience. We’ve taken the standard, sometimes bland, chia seed mixture and infused it with bright, sophisticated flavor, making it a truly exceptional healthy dessert or breakfast option. There are so many reasons this specific formula for Lemon Cream Chia Pudding has become a staple in my kitchen, and I guarantee it will become one in yours too.

Effortless Preparation and Ultimate Convenience

The first and perhaps most compelling reason to embrace this recipe is its sheer simplicity. It is entirely a no-bake affair. The only effort required involves mixing ingredients and waiting for the magic of time and refrigeration to work. The process is straightforward: mix the chia base, mix the lemon topping, and chill. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for meal prepping. You can create a batch of Lemon Cream Chia Pudding on Sunday night, and enjoy perfectly portioned, delicious breakfasts or snacks for the entire week.

A Texture That Excites the Palate

Many people are hesitant about chia pudding due to its unique texture. This recipe overcomes that hesitation by combining two distinct textures that complement each other perfectly. The chia pudding base becomes thick, gelatinous, and creamy (especially when using full-fat coconut milk), providing a satisfying chew. Layered on top is the rich, dense lemon cream, which, depending on whether you use Greek yogurt or coconut cream, adds either a velvety smoothness or a tangy thickness. The contrast between the smooth, vibrant topping and the pearl-like texture of the pudding is truly delightful.

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

Unlike many overly sweet commercial desserts, this Lemon Cream Chia Pudding hits a wonderful equilibrium. The chia base is mildly sweetened with maple syrup and vanilla, allowing the natural flavor of the coconut milk to shine. The lemon cream topping, however, brings the assertive acidity of fresh lemon juice and zest. This tartness cuts through the richness of the cream and the base, ensuring every bite is bright, invigorating, and never cloying. It’s the kind of complex flavor profile usually reserved for bakery items, but achieved effortlessly right in your own kitchen.

Furthermore, the components are highly customizable. If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, you can slightly reduce the juice. If you crave extra sweetness, you can easily increase the maple syrup in either component. This adaptability ensures the final product is perfectly tailored to your personal taste preferences, a feature you simply won’t get with pre-made snacks. Embrace the simplicity and the sublime flavors of this healthy, ready-to-eat treat.

Why You Should Try This Lemon Cream Chia Pudding Today

Beyond taste and convenience, integrating Lemon Cream Chia Pudding into your routine offers substantial benefits, particularly for those focused on healthy eating, weight management, or maintaining stable energy levels throughout the day. This recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition cleverly disguised as a delectable treat.

Boost Your Omega-3s and Fiber

Chia seeds are arguably the star ingredient when it comes to nutritional benefits. They are renowned for being one of the best plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids (specifically alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA). Omega-3s are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular function. By enjoying a serving of this Lemon Cream Chia Pudding, you are giving your body a vital nutrient boost.

In addition to healthy fats, chia seeds are an unparalleled source of dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, promoting regularity, and helping to manage blood sugar levels. The high fiber content is what makes this pudding incredibly satiating. It swells in your stomach, keeping you feeling full and satisfied for hours, making it an excellent tool for curbing mid-morning snacking or avoiding pre-dinner hunger pangs. Unlike a sugary pastry, this healthy dessert or breakfast provides sustained energy, preventing the inevitable energy crash.

Natural Energy and Gut Health Support

When you choose the Greek yogurt option for your creamy lemon topping, you introduce a powerful dose of probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome, which is intrinsically linked to everything from improved digestion to enhanced mood and immune function. Pairing these probiotics with the high fiber content of the chia seeds (which act as a prebiotic fuel source for the healthy bacteria) creates an ideal environment for your digestive system to thrive.

Furthermore, the fresh lemon juice provides a significant dose of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and aids in collagen production, contributing to healthy skin. The inclusion of healthy fats, whether from the coconut milk or the yogurt, ensures that these fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients are properly absorbed. This is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a functional food designed to nourish you from the inside out. For another fantastic no-bake recipe that keeps things quick and satisfying, be sure to check out our recipe for Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Balls.

Versatile for All Dietary Needs

One of the major advantages of this recipe is its inherent compatibility with multiple popular dietary structures. This Lemon Cream Chia Pudding is naturally:

• Gluten-Free: Contains no grains or gluten-containing ingredients.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened naturally using maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan Option: Easily made completely vegan by using coconut milk for the base and thick coconut cream for the topping, making it a stellar vegan chia pudding option.

Because it offers such flexibility while delivering premium flavor, it’s a recipe you can confidently serve to guests or integrate seamlessly into almost any eating plan. Stop dreaming about healthy, delicious meals and start prepping your first batch of this delightful pudding today!

Ingredients and Utensils: Mastering the Lemon Cream Chia Pudding

Success in creating the perfect Lemon Cream Chia Pudding relies on using quality ingredients and ensuring accurate measurements. We break down both the core components and the necessary tools for flawless execution.

Essential Ingredients for the Chia Pudding Base

The base is where the structure of your pudding is created. Aim for high-quality ingredients for the best texture and flavor.

• 1/3 cup Chia Seeds: Use whole, fresh chia seeds. Both black and white varieties work equally well; black chia seeds tend to provide a better visual contrast if using lighter toppings. These seeds are the foundation of the pudding, responsible for the thickening process.
• 1 1/2 cups Full-Fat Canned Coconut Milk: This is the secret to an incredibly creamy, rich base. The high-fat content emulsifies beautifully with the seeds, resulting in a luxurious texture far superior to that achieved with skim or low-fat milk. If you require a lighter option, you may substitute with unsweetened almond milk, but expect a thinner consistency.
• 3 tablespoons Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar: This provides the necessary sweetness to balance the sometimes earthy flavor of the chia seeds and the upcoming tartness of the lemon cream. Maple syrup also imparts a subtle warmth that pairs nicely with the vanilla. Adjust this quantity based on your desired sweetness level.
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract: Vanilla is a crucial flavor enhancer, adding depth and rounding out the sweetness. Do not skip the vanilla; it transforms the base from simple to sublime.
• 1/4 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt: A small amount of salt is essential in any sweet recipe. It doesn’t make the pudding taste salty, but rather sharpens and intensifies all the other flavors especially the vanilla and maple syrup.

Key Ingredients for the Creamy Lemon Topping

The topping is the flavor bomb that gives this recipe its signature bright, zesty character.

• 1/2 cup Thick Greek Yogurt: For a traditional, high-protein, incredibly creamy topping, Greek yogurt (full-fat is recommended for the best texture) is the ideal choice. If following a vegan diet, use full-fat Coconut Cream. To get the best coconut cream, refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight and scoop the thick, solidified cream from the top.
• 2 tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Always use fresh juice! Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, clean flavor necessary for this recipe. The tartness here is vital for contrast.
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (from approximately one medium lemon): The zest holds the concentrated lemon oils and flavor. This provides aromatic depth that the juice alone cannot achieve. Ensure you only grate the bright yellow skin and avoid the white pith underneath, which is bitter.
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup or Honey: This sweetener cuts the intense tartness of the lemon juice, bringing it into balance. Honey adds a slightly different floral note than maple syrup, so choose whichever you prefer.
• Pinch of Fine Sea Salt: Again, just a small pinch helps elevate the tang and creaminess of the topping.

Optional Garnish for Presentation

• Fresh Berries: Blueberries or raspberries not only add gorgeous color but also provide a contrasting textural pop.
• Additional Lemon Zest: A final dusting of zest makes the presentation vibrant and reminds the eater of the refreshing flavor within.

Recommended Tools and Utensils

While this recipe is simple, having the right equipment ensures a smooth preparation and perfect consistency.

1. Medium Mixing Bowl or Large Sealable Jar: For mixing and setting the chia pudding base. A jar (like a 32oz Mason jar) is ideal for shaking vigorously, which aids in preventing clumps.
2. Whisk or Long-Handled Spoon: Essential for the two critical mixing stages of the chia pudding. A whisk helps break up potential clumps better than a spoon.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key, especially when dealing with the ratio of chia seeds to liquid.
4. Small Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients for the creamy lemon topping.
5. Citrus Zester/Microplane: Necessary for obtaining fine, flavorful lemon zest without including the bitter white pith.
6. Small Serving Jars or Glasses (2 to 4): Perfect for individual serving portions and showcasing the beautiful layered effect of the Lemon Cream Chia Pudding.
7. Airtight Storage Lids: Necessary for refrigerating the pudding overnight and ensuring maximum freshness for meal prep.

By gathering these high-quality ingredients and simple tools, you are perfectly equipped to create a batch of spectacular Lemon Cream Chia Pudding. The slight effort in ingredient selection pays huge dividends in the final taste and texture, giving you a truly professional result every time. For another simple dessert that layers flavors beautifully, consider making Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Achieving Chia Pudding Perfection

Follow these instructions closely, paying special attention to the mixing steps for the chia base, to ensure a smooth, clump-free, and beautifully set Lemon Cream Chia Pudding.

Part One: Preparing the Chia Pudding Base

The base requires adequate mixing and time to set correctly. Patience here is key.

1. Combine the Base Ingredients: In your medium-sized bowl or a large sealable jar, measure and combine the 1/3 cup of chia seeds, 1 1/2 cups of full-fat coconut milk (or alternative milk), 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. The Initial Vigor: Use a whisk or a spoon to stir the mixture vigorously for at least 60 seconds. If using a jar, secure the lid and shake hard. It is essential to ensure that all the chia seeds are fully saturated and that no dry clumps remain clinging to the bottom or sides of the container.
3. The Resting Period: Allow the mixture to rest undisturbed at room temperature for five minutes. This short period allows the outer layer of the chia seeds to begin absorbing the liquid and developing their gelatinous coating.
4. The Critical Secondary Stir: After the initial five minutes, stir or shake the mixture again very thoroughly for another 30 seconds. This secondary stir is absolutely crucial. Chia seeds tend to settle rapidly, and this second agitation prevents them from sticking together in a solid, unappetizing layer at the base. It ensures a uniform, smooth pudding texture upon setting.
5. Chill to Perfection: Cover the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pudding to chill and thicken for a minimum of four hours. For the absolute best consistency thick, creamy, and fully gelled we highly recommend preparing the base overnight.

Part Two: Preparing the Lemon Cream Topping

This part is quick but demands fresh, high-quality lemon products for maximum flavor.

1. Gather and Combine Cream Ingredients: In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt (or the thick coconut cream if vegan), 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the full 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey.
2. Mix Until Smooth: Use a spoon or small whisk to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the lemon cream topping is completely smooth, well-combined, and uniform in color. You should notice the cream thickening slightly as the acid from the lemon reacts with the yogurt or coconut cream.
3. The Taste Test and Adjustment: Taste the lemon cream mixture. This is your chance to fine-tune the flavor. If you desire more zing, add a small squeeze more of lemon juice (1/2 teaspoon increments). If it is too tart, balance it by adding a half-teaspoon more of your chosen sweetener.
4. Chill: Cover the bowl and place the lemon cream mixture in the refrigerator to chill. This ensures both components are cold and firm when you assemble the final dessert.

Part Three: Assembly and Serving

The final step is to combine your chilled components into a visually appealing and delicious finished dish.

1. Check Consistency: Retrieve the chilled chia pudding and the lemon cream topping from the refrigerator. The chia pudding should be very thick and fully gelled. If, after several hours of chilling, the pudding is too dense or too thick for your preference, simply stir in a tiny splash (about 1-2 teaspoons) of your preferred milk until it reaches your desired pudding consistency.
2. Choose Your Serving Style: Decide whether you want a large batch in one bowl or individual layered servings. Layering in individual jars or glasses showcases the beautiful two-tone appearance of the Lemon Cream Chia Pudding best.
3. Layer the Base: If layering, spoon approximately two-thirds of the chia pudding into the base of your two to four individual glasses. Ensure the surface is relatively even.
4. Add the Cream: Gently dollop or spoon the prepared creamy lemon topping over the top of the chia pudding layer in each glass. Smooth the surface slightly with the back of a spoon for a clean line, or leave it roughly textured for a rustic look.
5. Garnish and Serve: For an impressive presentation, optionally garnish each serving with a scattering of fresh berries (blueberries and raspberries contrast beautifully) and a small, vibrant pinch of fresh lemon zest.
6. Storage: Serve immediately while cold. Leftover servings should be stored covered in the refrigerator and will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days.

Tips and Variations: Customizing Your Lemon Cream Chia Pudding

While the classic Lemon Cream Chia Pudding recipe is flawless, there are countless ways to adapt it to specific diets, flavor preferences, or ingredients you have on hand. Learning a few tricks can solve common challenges and unlock new flavor experiences.

Troubleshooting Common Chia Pudding Mistakes

Preventing Clumps: As detailed in the instructions, the double-stir method (stir once, wait five minutes, stir again) is essential. If you still find clumps, it means the first stir was not vigorous enough, or the liquid was added too slowly. To fix a lumpy, set pudding, stir it firmly with a fork or an immersion blender until smooth, adding a tiny bit of liquid if necessary.

Adjusting Consistency (Too Thick/Too Thin):

• If the pudding is too thick after chilling (common when using high-fat coconut milk), simply whisk in a splash (about 1 teaspoon at a time) of your chosen milk until it reaches your desired creamy, spoonable consistency.
• If the pudding is too thin (common if using low-fat milk or non-dairy milk substitutes), stir in an extra tablespoon of chia seeds per batch, mix well, and allow it to set for another hour or two in the refrigerator.

Dietary and Ingredient Variations

The flexibility of the Lemon Cream Chia Pudding makes it suitable for almost any dietary requirement.

Making it Fully Vegan:

• Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the base.
• For the topping, substitute Greek yogurt with the thick, separated cream from a can of refrigerated full-fat coconut milk, or use a high-quality, unflavored vegan Greek yogurt substitute. This ensures the topping is thick and decadent.
• Ensure you use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. This makes it a perfect, rich, and satisfying vegan chia pudding.

Sweetener Alternatives:

• For those minimizing sugars, use Erythritol, Xylitol, or Monk Fruit sweetener drops to replace the maple syrup, adjusting the quantity according to the product’s relative sweetness.
• If you love the flavor of dates, blend 2-3 pitted Medjool dates with the coconut milk before adding the chia seeds to create a whole-food sweetened base.

Milk Substitutions: While full-fat canned coconut milk is recommended for texture, you can substitute with other non-dairy milks like oat milk (very creamy), cashew milk (neutral), or soy milk (higher protein). Remember that these lighter milks will result in a slightly looser pudding that sets less densely.

Flavor Enhancements Beyond Lemon

Once you master the basic Lemon Cream Chia Pudding, you can add subtle layers of flavor:

• Ginger Zing: Add 1/4 teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger to the lemon cream topping for a spicy, warming undertone.
• Turmeric Boost: Whisk 1/2 teaspoon of high-quality turmeric powder into the chia base for both color and anti-inflammatory benefits. This creates a vibrant, golden pudding.
• Cardamom Spice: Add a small pinch of ground cardamom to the base for a subtle, floral aroma that complements the bright lemon flavor beautifully.

For more delicious and customizable dessert inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of recipes on Pinterest, including great ideas for healthy meal prep snacks and treats: Pinterest: Recipes Ebook Blog.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Lemon Cream Chia Pudding

This Lemon Cream Chia Pudding is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a nutritional investment. While precise calories and macros depend on the specific type of milk and cream used (e.g., full-fat coconut milk vs. almond milk), we can analyze the inherent benefits of the core components.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, using Full-Fat Options)

Assuming this recipe yields 4 substantial servings using full-fat coconut milk and Greek yogurt, the approximate values are:

• Calories: 300–350 kcal
• Protein: 10–15g (Significantly higher if using Greek yogurt)
• Total Fat: 20–25g (Mostly healthy saturated fats from coconut and beneficial Omega-3s)
• Carbohydrates: 25–30g
• Fiber: 8–10g

Note: Using lighter milk (like almond milk) and lower-fat yogurt will significantly decrease the fat and calorie count, potentially bringing the calories down to 200-250 kcal per serving, though protein may remain high.

The Mighty Power of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the cornerstone of this recipe’s nutritional profile:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (ALA): Crucial for brain function and reducing chronic inflammation. Chia seeds offer one of the highest concentrations of ALA in the plant kingdom.
• Fiber Content: A single serving provides nearly a third of the recommended daily intake of fiber, promoting excellent gut health and long-lasting satiety. This high fiber content is key to stabilizing blood sugar levels.
• Minerals: Chia seeds are rich in manganese, phosphorus, copper, selenium, iron, and magnesium all vital for bone health and energy production.

The Benefits of the Creamy Lemon Component

Whether you choose dairy or vegan cream, the topping adds specific health advantages:

Greek Yogurt (Dairy Option):

• High Protein: Greek yogurt is incredibly rich in protein, making this pudding an excellent post-workout snack or a solid breakfast to prevent mid-morning hunger.
• Probiotics: Live active cultures support the gut microbiome, enhancing digestion and immunity.
• Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.

Coconut Cream (Vegan Option):

• Healthy Fats (MCTs): Coconut cream contains Medium-Chain Triglycerides, a type of saturated fat metabolized differently by the body. MCTs are often used as an immediate energy source and can support healthy metabolism.

Lemon Zest and Juice:

• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that is crucial for immune system defense and plays a vital role in synthesizing collagen.
• Aromatics: The natural oils in the zest contain compounds that aid digestion.

By opting for this bright and refreshing Lemon Cream Chia Pudding over traditional baked goods, you are not sacrificing flavor, but rather gaining a massive advantage in sustained energy, fiber intake, and essential micronutrients. It’s truly a recipe where health and deliciousness merge beautifully. For a cozy, energy-boosting pairing, try this pudding alongside a mug of Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer.

FAQs About Lemon Cream Chia Pudding

Conclusion: Your New Favorite No-Bake Treat

The Lemon Cream Chia Pudding truly stands out in the world of healthy, ready-to-eat meals. It combines the essential nutritional benefits of the powerful chia seed fiber, protein, and Omega-3s with the delightful, palate-cleansing zing of fresh lemon. We’ve established that this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no heat and minimal active time, making it an ideal candidate for weekly meal prep.

Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle, are sensitive to gluten, or simply crave a vibrant, satisfying snack that won’t derail your health goals, this recipe is easily adaptable and delivers on all fronts. Remember the key steps: use full-fat liquid for maximum creaminess, execute the crucial double-stir to prevent clumping, and always use fresh lemon zest to achieve that authentic, bright flavor. The resulting two-layered pudding, with its creamy texture and invigorating taste, is nothing short of gourmet quality, yet entirely accessible.

We encourage you to try this recipe for Lemon Cream Chia Pudding tonight so you can wake up tomorrow morning to a genuinely exciting and nourishing meal. Once you experience the perfect marriage of tart lemon and rich, creamy pudding, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe week after week. If you loved this recipe, please consider sharing it with friends and family, and don’t forget to leave a comment below to let us know how you customized your lemon cream topping!

LEMON CREAM CHIA PUDDING (Overnight Recipe)

A bright, refreshing, and creamy make-ahead breakfast or dessert, featuring protein-rich chia seeds layered with a tangy, sweet lemon Greek yogurt topping. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Healthy, Modern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chia Pudding Base

• 1/3 cup Chia Seeds
• 1 1/2 cups Full-Fat Canned Coconut Milk Or Almond Milk for a lighter option.
• 3 tablespoons Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar Adjust to desired sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt

For the Creamy Lemon Topping

• 1/2 cup Thick Greek Yogurt Or full-fat Coconut Cream scooped from the top of a refrigerated can.
• 2 tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest From approximately one medium lemon.
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup or Honey
• Pinch Fine Sea Salt

For Optional Garnish

• Fresh berries Blueberries or raspberries recommended.
• Additional lemon zest

Equipment

• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Small Mixing Bowl
• Sealable Jar or Container

Method

 

Part One: Preparing the Chia Pudding Base

1. In a medium-sized bowl or a large sealable jar, combine the chia seeds, coconut milk (or alternative milk), 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. Use a whisk or a spoon to stir the mixture vigorously for at least 60 seconds, ensuring that all the chia seeds are fully saturated and no clumps remain at the bottom of the container.
3. Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for five minutes. This short period allows the chia seeds to begin absorbing the liquid.
4. After the initial five minutes, stir the mixture again very thoroughly for another 30 seconds. This secondary stir is crucial for preventing the chia seeds from settling and clumping together at the base of the container.
5. Cover the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pudding to chill and thicken for a minimum of four hours, or preferably overnight, for the best consistency.

Part Two: Preparing the Lemon Cream Topping

1. In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt or coconut cream, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey.
2. Use a spoon or small whisk to mix all the ingredients until the lemon cream topping is completely smooth, well-combined, and uniform in color.
3. Taste the lemon cream and adjust the sweetness or tartness if necessary by adding a small squeeze more of lemon juice or a half-teaspoon more of sweetener.
4. Cover the bowl and place the lemon cream mixture in the refrigerator to chill until the chia pudding has fully set.

Part Three: Assembly and Serving

1. Retrieve the chilled chia pudding and the lemon cream topping from the refrigerator. The chia pudding should be thick and gelled. If it is too thick, stir in a tiny splash of milk until it reaches your preferred pudding consistency.
2. To assemble the dessert, spoon approximately two-thirds of the chia pudding into the base of two to four individual glasses.
3. Gently dollop or spoon the prepared creamy lemon topping over the top of the chia pudding layer in each glass, smoothing the surface slightly with the back of a spoon.
4. Optionally, garnish each serving with a scattering of fresh berries and a small pinch of fresh lemon zest for presentation.
5. Serve immediately, or store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Notes

For a truly smooth lemon cream topping, you can briefly blend the topping ingredients instead of whisking. If using coconut cream for the base, ensure the can has been refrigerated overnight so you can easily scoop the thick cream from the top.