Guava Chia Pudding is my little solution for those mornings when I wake up hungry but not in the mood to actually cook. You know the vibe: you want something sweet, you want it to feel like a treat, but you also want it to carry you till lunch. This is the one I keep coming back to because it tastes bright and tropical, and it turns basic chia pudding into something that feels special. Plus, it is easy to prep the night before, which makes me feel like I have my life together. If you have guavas that are getting a bit too soft on the counter, this is such a satisfying way to use them up. 
Recipe Variations
I usually start with one simple base, then I play with flavors depending on what is in my fridge. The base matters because once you nail it, you can turn Guava Chia Pudding into five totally different moods without much extra effort. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy it, and yes, I have eaten all of these straight from the jar while standing in front of the fridge.
My simple base for Guava Chia Pudding
Here is what I typically use for 2 servings. You can scale it up easily if you want breakfast for a few days.
- Chia seeds (about 4 tablespoons)
- Milk of choice (about 1 cup, dairy or plant based)
- Guava puree (about 1/2 cup, blended guava flesh)
- Sweetener (1 to 2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar, optional)
- Pinch of salt (tiny, but it helps)
Mix it well, wait 5 minutes, mix again (this part really helps prevent clumps), then cover and chill at least 3 hours, but overnight is best.
1) Guava coconut cream dream
If you want it to taste like vacation, swap part of the milk for coconut milk, then top with toasted coconut flakes. If you are into coconut chia puddings in general, you might also like this one: coconut chia seed pudding recipe. For my guava version, I sometimes add a little lime zest on top and it makes the guava pop.
2) Strawberry guava swirl jar
Blend a handful of strawberries with a spoon of yogurt or milk, then layer that with your Guava Chia Pudding. It looks fancy with zero effort. This is my go to when I want something pretty for brunch at home, even if it is just me.
3) Protein boosted guava pudding
Some days you need breakfast to really stick. Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder with the milk before you add chia. If you want another high protein idea to rotate in, I have tried versions inspired by this: 7 ingredient protein pudding recipe. With guava, vanilla protein tends to taste the most natural.
4) Guava yogurt chia pudding
Instead of using only milk, use half milk and half yogurt for a thicker, tangier jar. If you have ever wondered whether chia works well in yogurt, it absolutely does, and here is a helpful read: can chia seeds soak in yogurt. I love this variation with a drizzle of honey and some crushed pistachios.
5) Guava jelly dessert vibe
This one is for when you want something that feels like dessert after dinner. Add a thin layer of guava jelly or guava jam on top. Even a quick homemade chia gel can give you that jiggly layer effect, kind of like a playful fruit cup. If you want to see how that texture works, check this out: chia jello recipe. It is surprisingly fun with guava.
Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
I am not here to pretend Guava Chia Pudding is a magic food, but chia seeds really do bring a lot to the table for something so tiny. The biggest thing I notice personally is how satisfied I feel after eating it. It is the kind of breakfast that does not leave me hunting for snacks 30 minutes later.
Here are a few real, practical reasons chia is worth keeping around:
Fiber
Chia seeds are known for being fiber rich, which can help you feel full and keep things moving, if you know what I mean.
Plant based omega 3s
Chia contains ALA omega 3 fats. It is not the same as eating fish, but it is still a nice plant option to mix into your routine.
Protein
There is a bit of protein in chia, and it adds up, especially if you combine it with yogurt, milk, or a protein powder.
Minerals
Chia has minerals like calcium and magnesium. I like knowing my breakfast is not just sweet, it is doing something useful too.
And guava itself is no slouch. It is fruity and fragrant, and it is known for being high in vitamin C. So when I build a jar with guava plus chia, it feels like a smart treat, not just a sweet tooth moment.
Tips for the Perfect Chia Pudding
If your first chia pudding ever came out weird, watery, or clumpy, you are not alone. I have had jars that looked like frog eggs and I learned my lesson. Here are the tips I actually use so Guava Chia Pudding comes out thick, creamy, and spoonable.
Stir twice
Mix everything, wait 5 minutes, then mix again. This breaks up clumps before they become permanent.
Give it time
Chia needs a few hours to fully thicken. Overnight is the easiest win.
Use the right ratio
A common starting point is about 1/4 cup chia to 1 cup liquid. If you like it thicker, add 1 more tablespoon of chia. If you like it softer, add a splash more milk in the morning.
Blend the guava if you want it smoother
Some guavas are gritty because of the seeds. I usually scoop the flesh and blend it, then strain if I am feeling picky. If I am feeling lazy, I just blend and roll with it.
Sweeten after chilling if you are unsure
Guava sweetness can vary a lot. If you are not sure how sweet your fruit is, add a tiny bit of sweetener, chill it, then taste again in the morning.
Also, if you are making the yogurt version often, you might like this extra how to guide too: soak chia seeds in yogurt. It helped me get the thickness right when I was experimenting.
Creative Serving Ideas
Once your Guava Chia Pudding is set, the toppings are where you can really make it feel like a brand new breakfast every time. I love setting out a few things on the counter and letting everyone build their own jar. It is casual, it is fun, and it makes a regular morning feel a little more cared for.
Here are easy topping ideas that actually taste good with guava:
- Fresh fruit: strawberries, mango, kiwi, banana
- Crunch: granola, toasted coconut, chopped almonds, pistachios
- Extra creamy: a spoon of Greek yogurt, coconut yogurt, or whipped coconut cream
- Drizzles: honey, condensed milk, maple syrup, or a little guava jam
- Flavor boosters: lime zest, vanilla, pinch of cinnamon
My favorite way for guests is the parfait style: pudding, fruit, crunch, repeat. It looks like you worked hard, but really you just layered stuff in a glass. No one needs to know it took 2 minutes.
Related Recipes for Breakfast and Brunch
If you are the kind of person who gets bored eating the same breakfast all week, I get it. I love Guava Chia Pudding, but I still like rotating different textures and flavors so breakfast stays fun. Here are a few ideas to pair with it or swap in when you want something different.
Easy brunch plate idea
I like serving small jars of guava pudding alongside eggs, toast, and coffee. The jar feels light and fresh next to savory food.
Other chia styles to try
If you loved the texture, try coconut based versions, yogurt soaked chia, or even that jello like chia situation for dessert nights. Having a few options makes it easier to keep chia seeds from just sitting in the pantry.
Fruit mix ins that work like a charm
Mango, strawberry, and pineapple are all great with chia. If your guavas are not perfectly ripe, pairing them with a sweeter fruit can balance everything out.
Common Questions
Do I have to use fresh guava?
Nope. Fresh is amazing, but you can also use guava puree, guava nectar (reduce the added liquid a bit), or even guava jam swirled in.
Why is my pudding runny?
Usually it needs more time or a bit more chia. Give it overnight, and if it is still thin, stir in 1 teaspoon chia and wait 20 minutes.
Can I make Guava Chia Pudding without added sugar?
Yes. If your guava is ripe, it might be sweet enough on its own. Toppings like strawberries or mango can add sweetness too.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
I am comfortable keeping it for about 3 days in a sealed container. The texture can get thicker over time, so add a splash of milk before eating if needed.
Can I freeze it?
You can, but the texture changes and can get a bit icy or grainy. I prefer making a few jars and keeping them refrigerated instead.
A sweet little wrap up for your next jar
If you take one thing from this post, let it be this: Guava Chia Pudding is easy, flexible, and honestly kind of addictive once you find your favorite topping combo. Play with coconut, yogurt, protein, or a jelly layer depending on your mood, and do not forget the double stir trick. If you want more inspiration, I have bookmarked a few fun variations like Guava and Strawberry Chia Pudding Parfait – Evergreen Kitchen and Layered Strawberry Guava Chia Pudding – Running to the Kitchen. I also love seeing how cafes do it, like Guava Coconut Chia Pot | Pret A Manger, and if you want to branch out to other fruits, Simple and Sweet Mango Chia Pudding – Blissful Basil is a good one. For a more dessert like twist, this idea is super clever: Chia Pudding with Apple Guava Jelly (Vegan, Gluten & Dairy Free). Now go grab a jar, stir up a batch tonight, and thank yourself tomorrow morning.
