Recipe by Paediatric Nutritionist, Mandy Sacher
Dietary: VEG, GF, EF, NF, DF
Allergens: None
Age group: 9 months+ (family-friendly)
Serves: 2
Prep time: 10 mins (+1 hour or overnight chilling)
Equipment: High-speed blender or mixing bowl
Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids for healthy brain development, high in fibre to support a healthy digestive system and provide essential minerals like calcium and iron for strong bones and overall health. Paired with the natural sweetness of pear and berries, this chia pudding is a wonderful first food and snack option for your baby and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
INGREDIENTS
• ½ cup (120ml) coconut milk or milk of choice
• 1 tbsp (16g) chia seeds
• 1 packet Bellamy’s Organic Freeze-Dried Pear & Apple Snacks, crushed into powder
• ¼ cup (40g) fresh or frozen mixed berries, mashed
• ½ tsp (2g) cinnamon (optional)
• 1 tbsp (20g) finely mashed banana (optional, for extra sweetness)
METHOD
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In a small bowl or blender, mix coconut milk, chia seeds, crushed freeze-dried pear and apple powder, mashed berries, banana and cinnamon (if using).
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Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent lumps.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best creamy texture.
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Serve chilled, topped with extra mashed berries or banana if desired.
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For babies aged 9-12 months, serve as a thick puree by mashing it further with a fork or stirring in extra mashed berries or bananas for added texture. For babies practising self-feeding, spoon small dollops onto their tray or serve alongside soft finger foods like steamed apple slices or banana fingers for dipping. Toddlers can enjoy this pudding as a wholesome breakfast, snack, or even dessert, topped with a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
STORING LEFTOVERS: Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Freeze any leftovers in popsicle moulds for up to 4 months.
TIPS
Prep Tips:
• Make a double batch to save time during the week. To crush freeze-dried pears, use a high-speed blender for a fine consistency, or gently crush by piercing the packet and rolling it firmly with a rolling pin.
Easy Ingredient Swaps:
• Swap coconut milk for oat, soy or rice milk.
• Use fresh pear purée, if freeze-dried pear is unavailable.
• Substitute berries with mango or ripe pear, mashed
