Add the chia seeds, milk, yogurt, grated carrots, cinnamon, and sweetener to a medium mixing bowl or a large mason jar. If using Greek yogurt, the pudding will turn out slightly thicker and creamier, while plant-based yogurt creates a lighter texture. Make sure the carrots are finely grated so they soften nicely overnight and blend smoothly into the pudding.

Stir the mixture thoroughly using a spoon or small whisk until everything is fully combined. Pay extra attention to the chia seeds because they tend to settle together quickly. The mixture will look fairly thin at first, but the chia seeds will gradually absorb the liquid and thicken as it rests.

If desired, add optional ingredients like vanilla extract, ginger, turmeric, or raisins at this stage. Vanilla gives the pudding a cozy dessert-like flavor, ginger adds gentle warmth, turmeric brings extra golden color and earthy depth, and raisins make it taste even more like classic carrot cake.

Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. During this time, the chia seeds will begin soaking up the liquid and starting the thickening process. This short resting step helps create a smoother final texture.

After resting, stir the mixture again very well to break up any chia seed clumps that may have formed. This second stir is important because it helps evenly distribute the seeds throughout the pudding instead of allowing them to settle at the bottom.

Cover the bowl tightly or seal the jar with a lid, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. Overnight chilling creates the best texture because the chia seeds fully expand and the flavors have more time to blend together. By morning, the pudding should be thick, creamy, and spoonable.

Before serving, give the pudding one final stir to refresh the texture. If it has thickened more than expected, simply mix in a small splash of milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Top the pudding with sliced almonds, an extra spoonful of yogurt, or a light sprinkle of cinnamon just before serving. You can also add chopped walnuts, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor and texture. Serve chilled for a creamy, cozy breakfast or snack that tastes like healthy carrot cake in a jar.