Pomegranate Citrus Chia Parfaits with Crunchy Nut Date Crumble

A light, festive December sweet that still feels special

December is full of beautiful food moments, but it can also be the month where our energy feels a little all over the place. That is exactly why I love desserts that feel celebratory and still support how I want to feel after I eat.

These Pomegranate Citrus Chia Parfaits are bright, creamy, and layered with crunch. They are sweet without being heavy, and they work just as well for a holiday breakfast as they do for an afternoon snack or a lighter after dinner treat. If you are focused on steady energy and feeling good while you thrive beyond 60, this is a simple way to enjoy the season and still flex your plant power.

A festive sweet that doesn’t derail energy

This parfait is a nice balance of:

• Fiber from chia, fruit, and dates
• Healthy fats from chia and walnuts or pecans
• Naturally sweet flavor that does not require a lot of added sugar

It is the kind of recipe that feels fancy in a glass jar but is incredibly easy to prep.

Why chia plus fruit is a smart December treat

Chia helps create a creamy pudding texture without dairy. It is also known for its fiber and plant based omega 3 fats.

Citrus adds freshness and brightness when so many winter foods are rich and heavy.

Pomegranate arils bring that jewel toned holiday feel and a satisfying pop of tangy sweetness.

Recipe: Pomegranate Citrus Chia Parfaits with Crunchy Nut Date Crumble

Serves

4

Prep time

10 minutes

Chill time

2 hours or overnight

Chia base

• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened plant milk
• 1/3 cup chia seeds
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 to 2 tsp maple syrup, optional
• Pinch cinnamon

Fruit layer

• 1 to 2 oranges, segmented
• 1/2 to 1 cup pomegranate arils

Crunchy nut date crumble

• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans
• 6 to 8 dates
• Pinch sea salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Pulse into a chunky crumble.

Instructions

1. Stir chia base ingredients well.
2. Wait 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumps.
3. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Layer chia pudding, citrus, pomegranate, and crumble in jars or bowls.

Optional glow up

Add a tiny drizzle of tahini plus maple for a grown up dessert vibe.

Nutrition facts (estimated)

Per serving, using walnuts and 6 dates total, with unsweetened plant milk.

• Calories: 300 to 360
• Protein: 6 to 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 to 40 g
• Fiber: 9 to 13 g
• Fat: 16 to 22 g

Exact numbers will vary depending on your plant milk choice and how generous you are with the crumble.

Healthy benefits of key ingredients

Chia seeds

• High in fiber for digestion and fullness
• Provide plant based omega 3 fats
• Help stabilize the texture and satisfaction of a lighter sweet

Pomegranate

• Rich in antioxidants
• Adds bright flavor and a festive look without heavy ingredients

Oranges

• A classic winter source of vitamin C
• Adds juiciness and natural sweetness

Walnuts or pecans

• Provide healthy fats and crunch
• Help turn this into a more balanced snack

Dates

• Offer caramel like sweetness
• Bring minerals and fiber compared with refined sugar

Serving suggestions

This is one of those recipes that fits several moments in the day.

• Breakfast: Add extra citrus and a spoonful of yogurt if you want a thicker texture.
• Snack: Keep portions smaller and add cinnamon on top.
• Dessert: Use the tahini maple drizzle and serve in pretty glasses.

3 easy variations

1. Chocolate cherry winter parfait
   • Add 1 tsp cacao to the chia base
   • Swap fruit for frozen cherries
2. Tropical winter escape
   • Add mango and pineapple
   • Use coconut based plant milk
3. Protein boosted parfait
   • Stir in 2 to 3 tbsp hemp hearts
   • Add a spoonful of soy yogurt
   • This version is great if you are supporting muscle maintenance over 60

Make ahead notes

• Chia pudding keeps well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
• Store the crumble separately so it stays crunchy.
• Assemble right before serving for the best texture.

A simple December rhythm I love

When life gets busy, I like having one recipe that covers multiple needs. This parfait can be breakfast for two days, a snack when I need something stable, and a lighter holiday sweet when I want a treat that still supports how I want to feel.

If you want more December recipes and simple seasonal routines that help you thrive beyond 60, visit my blog for the full December food lineup and cozy, lighter holiday ideas.

And if you are new here, joining my updates is the easiest way to stay in the loop with what I am making next.

Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle, especially if you have existing conditions or take medication.

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