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A close-up shot of a single, perfectly square no-bake chia pudding bar on a white plate, highlighting the layers of chia base and chocolate topping.

No-Bake Chia Pudding Bars: The Easiest Healthy Snack

These No-Bake Chia Pudding Bars are the ultimate healthy, make-ahead snack. They're incredibly easy, packed with fiber and protein, and are naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just mix, press, and chill!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chia Pudding Base
  • 2 cups rolled oats Use certified gluten-free if needed
  • 1/2 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or any other milk
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter or other nut/seed butter
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
For the Chocolate Topping
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips dairy-free for vegan
  • 1 tsp coconut oil

Equipment

  • 1 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Parchment Paper
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the rolled oats and chia seeds until well combined.
  3. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the almond milk, peanut butter, and maple syrup for 30-45 seconds until easily stirrable. Whisk in the vanilla extract and salt until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down into a very firm, even layer.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or freeze for 1 hour, until the base is firm to the touch.
  6. Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave until smooth. Pour over the chilled base and spread evenly. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  7. Return to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the chocolate. Lift the block out of the pan using the parchment paper, and slice into 16 bars.

Notes

Press Firmly: Compacting the base tightly is the key to ensuring the bars hold their shape.
Chill Time is Crucial: Do not skip the chilling time, as this allows the chia seeds to gel and bind the bars together.
Storage: Keep bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.