This Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding is creamy and refreshing! The sweet banana pairs perfectly with rich coconut milk, and chia seeds give it a fun, pudding-like texture.
I love how easy this treat is to make! Just mix everything and let it sit in the fridge. It’s a yummy breakfast or snack that feels like a little vacation in a bowl! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is rich and creamy, but you can use light coconut milk if you’re looking to cut calories. Almond milk or oat milk are good alternatives, though they won’t be as thick.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds help thicken the pudding and provide omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re out of chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds, but be aware that they may not create the same texture.
Banana: A ripe banana gives natural sweetness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado for a different taste and texture.
Sweeteners: Maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness, but honey works too. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. You can also skip sweeteners altogether if your banana is sweet enough.
Nuts and Coconut Flakes: Nuts add crunch, while coconut flakes enhance the coconut flavor. You can swap in seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower seeds) for a nut-free version.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chia Seed Pudding Texture?
Getting the right texture for chia pudding is all about timing and mixing. Start by combiningyour ingredients well to prevent clumps. After the initial five minutes, stir again! This breaks up any chia clumps and ensures they absorb the liquid evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the chia seeds swell properly.
- If you’re making it overnight, it’s even better—the chia seeds get softer.
- Give it a good stir right before serving for a smooth consistency.
Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Chopped nuts (such as almonds or hazelnuts) for topping
- Coconut flakes for topping (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious chia pudding takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll need to refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let the chia seeds absorb the liquid and thicken. It’s a great make-ahead recipe for busy mornings or snacks!
Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, mashed banana, maple syrup (if you want it sweeter), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined for the best flavor!
2. Add the Chia Seeds:
Stir in the chia seeds until they are evenly spread throughout the mixture. This is what will give your pudding that nice, thick texture.
3. Let it Sit:
Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the chia seeds to start absorbing the liquid. After 5 minutes, give it another good stir to break up any clumps of chia seeds that may have formed.
4. Chill It:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it into the fridge. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better! This gives time for the pudding to thicken up perfectly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your pudding, take it out of the fridge and stir it a bit. Then, spoon it into serving glasses or bowls. Top each serving with banana slices, chopped nuts, and a sprinkle of coconut flakes for an extra tasty crunch!
6. Enjoy Your Treat!
Dig in and enjoy this refreshing, healthy pudding as a breakfast or a snack anytime! It’s so easy and delicious!
Can I Use Other Types of Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute coconut milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will vary slightly. Full-fat milk alternatives will yield a creamier pudding!
Can I Sweeten It More or Less?
Sure! Adjust the sweetness to your liking. You can add more maple syrup or honey if you prefer it sweeter, or omit the sweetener entirely if you want a less sugary option. The ripe banana does add natural sweetness, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust!
How Long Does Leftover Chia Pudding Last?
This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken further when stored.
Can I Prepare This Pudding the Night Before?
Definitely! In fact, making it the night before is a great option. Just follow the recipe, let it chill overnight, and it will be ready for you to enjoy in the morning!
