Skip to main content

Chia-Berry Shake

This vibrant chia and berry shake is a refreshing vegan powerhouse, perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout recovery drink. The combination of frozen forest fruits and a pinch of aromatic cardamom creates a sophisticated flavour profile that is far more interesting than your average smoothie. By soaking the chia seeds first, you create a hydrating gel that provides a sustained energy release throughout the morning.

Adding half a ripe Hass avocado ensures a luxuriously thick, velvety texture while providing a dose of heart-healthy fats. Naturally sweetened with agave nectar and scented with pure vanilla, this nutrient-dense shake is as satisfying as it is colourful. Serve it in a tall glass topped with a few scattered berries for a simple yet elegant start to the day.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chia-Berry Shake

  • 2 tablespoons black or white chia seeds

  • 240ml purified water

  • 475ml frozen mixed berries (such as blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, and marionberries), plus more for garnish (optional)

  • Pinch of ground cardamom

  • 240ml plain unsweetened almond milk

  • 2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey

  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

  • 1/2 Hass avocado

How to make Chia-Berry Shake

In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the chia seeds and water and let stand for about 20 minutes. (Makes about 275ml chia gel.)

Place the chia gel, frozen berries, cardamom, almond milk, agave nectar, vanilla, and avocado in a blender. Cover and blend on high until thick and creamy.

Pour into two glasses. Garnish with additional berries and serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.