Chunky Monkey Overnight Chia Pudding

Featured in: Everyday Home Cooking

This luscious no-cook creation inspired by the classic Chunky Monkey flavor combines creamy layers of banana, cocoa, and peanut butter with nutrient-dense chia seeds. The preparation involves whisking together a simple chia base, dividing it to create a chocolate-infused layer, then assembling beautiful parfaits in jars with fresh banana slices and velvety peanut butter.

After chilling overnight, the chia seeds transform the mixture into a thick, pudding-like consistency that's perfect for busy mornings. The optional toppings of dark chocolate chips and walnuts add delightful crunch and depth of flavor. This versatile dish works wonderfully for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, offering a satisfying blend of protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.

Updated on Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:44:53 GMT
Thickened overnight, this Chunky Monkey overnight chia pudding showcases creamy banana slices and rich chocolate layers. Save
Thickened overnight, this Chunky Monkey overnight chia pudding showcases creamy banana slices and rich chocolate layers. | skilletindex.com

A luscious, no-cook breakfast or snack inspired by the classic Chunky Monkey flavor—creamy layers of banana, cocoa, and peanut butter meld with chia for a satisfying, nutrient-packed pudding that tastes like an indulgent treat.

Thickened overnight, this Chunky Monkey overnight chia pudding showcases creamy banana slices and rich chocolate layers. Save
Thickened overnight, this Chunky Monkey overnight chia pudding showcases creamy banana slices and rich chocolate layers. | skilletindex.com

This Chunky Monkey Overnight Chia Pudding is the perfect solution for busy mornings. By preparing the layers the night before, you allow the chia seeds to fully absorb the almond milk, resulting in a velvety consistency that perfectly complements the rich cocoa and nutty peanut butter swirls.

Ingredients

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  • Chia Pudding Base
  • 4 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Cocoa Layer
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • Peanut Butter Layer
  • 2 tbsp natural creamy peanut butter
  • Banana Layer & Toppings
  • 1 large ripe banana, sliced
  • 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together chia seeds, almond milk, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and vanilla. Set aside for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until mixture starts to thicken.
Step 2: Create cocoa layer
Divide the mixture equally into two bowls. To one half, whisk in cocoa powder and 1/2 tbsp maple syrup until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble layers
In two jars or glasses, layer as follows: Spoon half of the plain chia pudding into the bottom of each jar. Add a layer of banana slices over the chia. Spread 1 tbsp peanut butter over the bananas in each jar. Add the cocoa chia pudding layer on top. Top with remaining banana slices, chocolate chips or cacao nibs, and chopped walnuts if desired.
Step 4: Chill
Cover jars and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours) until thickened and set.
Step 5: Serve
Serve chilled. Stir before eating, if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure you whisk the chia pudding base thoroughly and let it sit for the full 10 minutes before layering. Stirring once or twice during this period prevents the seeds from clumping at the bottom, ensuring an even, creamy texture throughout the jars.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and omit the walnuts. You can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or your preferred sweetener, and for extra creaminess, use coconut milk in place of almond milk.

Serviervorschläge

This pudding is excellent as a make-ahead breakfast or a snack on the go. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, wait to add the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips until just before serving to maintain their texture.

Luscious breakfast jars feature Chunky Monkey overnight chia pudding with peanut butter swirls and dark chocolate chips. Save
Luscious breakfast jars feature Chunky Monkey overnight chia pudding with peanut butter swirls and dark chocolate chips. | skilletindex.com

Enjoy a balanced start to your day with 325 calories, 18g of fat, 37g of carbohydrates, and 9g of protein per serving in this delicious Chunky Monkey-inspired breakfast.

Recipe FAQs

How long does the pudding need to chill?

The pudding requires at least 6 hours of refrigeration time, though overnight chilling (8-10 hours) yields the best texture and flavor development.

Can I make this nut-free?

Absolutely. Substitute sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter and omit the walnuts for a completely nut-free version that maintains the creamy texture.

How long will the assembled jars last in the refrigerator?

Properly covered and refrigerated, the assembled jars stay fresh for up to 4 days, making them excellent for meal prep.

What milk alternatives work best?

Unsweetened almond milk creates a light base, but coconut milk adds extra creaminess. Any plant-based or dairy milk you prefer will work well.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

The maple syrup amount can be increased or decreased to taste. For a lower-sugar version, rely on the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.

Do I need to stir the pudding before serving?

Stirring before eating is optional but helps redistribute the layers and ensures consistent texture throughout each spoonful.

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Chunky Monkey Overnight Chia Pudding

A luscious, no-cook breakfast featuring creamy layers of banana, cocoa, and peanut butter melded with chia seeds for a satisfying, nutrient-packed pudding.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Time to Cook
360 minutes
Overall Duration
370 minutes


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 2 Number of Servings

Diet Information Vegetarian Option, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You’ll Need

Chia Pudding Base

01 4 tablespoons chia seeds
02 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
03 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
04 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Cocoa Layer

01 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
02 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

Peanut Butter Layer

01 2 tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter

Banana Layer and Toppings

01 1 large ripe banana, sliced
02 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs, optional
03 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts, optional

Method

Step 01

Prepare Chia Pudding Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together chia seeds, almond milk, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Set aside for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until mixture begins to thicken.

Step 02

Create Cocoa Mixture: Divide the thickened chia mixture equally into two bowls. To one portion, whisk in cocoa powder and 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup until fully incorporated.

Step 03

Layer Pudding Components: In two serving jars or glasses, layer in sequence: spoon half of plain chia pudding to bottom, add banana slices, spread 1 tablespoon peanut butter over bananas, add cocoa chia pudding layer on top, finish with remaining banana slices and optional chocolate chips or cacao nibs and walnuts.

Step 04

Chill Overnight: Cover jars and refrigerate overnight or minimum 6 hours until thickened and fully set.

Step 05

Serve: Remove from refrigerator and serve chilled. Stir before eating if desired.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 2 serving jars or glasses

Allergy Details

Review every ingredient for possible allergens. When unsure, always check with a medical expert.
  • Contains peanuts and tree nuts including walnuts
  • May contain soy if chocolate chips include soy lecithin
  • Verify product labels for undisclosed allergens

Nutrition details (each serving)

For your information only. Not a replacement for professional health advice.
  • Calorie count: 325
  • Fat content: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 37 grams
  • Protein content: 9 grams

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