This Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding is creamy and sweet, perfect for breakfast or a snack. With just three main ingredients, it’s super easy to whip up!
I love how it thickens overnight and is ready to enjoy in the morning. Plus, who doesn’t want a tasty treat that feels like a tropical getaway? 🍌🥥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coconut Milk: For that rich, creamy texture, full-fat coconut milk is best. If you want a lighter option, you can try light coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Just remember, this might change the creaminess!
Chia Seeds: These little seeds are key for thickness. If you’re out of chia seeds, ground flaxseed can be a substitute, but it won’t thicken in the same way, so adjust the liquid accordingly.
Banana: I love using ripe bananas for their natural sweetness. If bananas aren’t your thing, you could use applesauce or even pureed mango for a flavor twist!
Sweeteners: The pudding can be sweetened with maple syrup or honey. If you’re looking for a sugar-free version, try using stevia or agave syrup instead.
How Do You Get Chia Seeds to Thicken Properly?
The secret to the perfect chia pudding is letting those seeds soak up liquid! Here’s how to ensure it thickens just right:
- After mixing, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes and stir again. This prevents clumping and helps the seeds absorb evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This is when the magic happens!
- Before serving, mix once more. If it’s thicker than you like, add a splash of coconut milk to get your desired consistency.
How to Make Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (reserve some slices for topping)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Banana slices, toasted coconut flakes, and chopped nuts for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pudding takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires at least 4 hours (or overnight) in the fridge to set properly. In no time, you’ll have a lovely, creamy dessert or snack awaiting you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, chia seeds, mashed banana, maple syrup (if you’re using it), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything together well. You want to make sure the chia seeds are evenly distributed, without any clumps. This is a crucial step!
2. Letting It Rest:
After mixing, let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the chia seeds start absorbing the liquid. Give it a quick stir again to make sure everything is well incorporated and to prevent clumping. It’s magic in the making!
3. Refrigerating:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! During this time, the chia seeds will absorb the coconut milk and thicken into a delightful pudding.
4. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the pudding a good stir. If it’s thicker than you’d like, add a splash more coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. It should be creamy and smooth!
5. Serving:
Spoon the lovely pudding into serving glasses or bowls. Top it off with banana slices, toasted coconut flakes, and chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. It’ll look beautiful!
6. Enjoy!
Serve it chilled and enjoy your creamy, tropical chia pudding! Perfect for breakfast or as a refreshing snack any day. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While coconut milk provides a creamy texture and flavor, you can substitute it with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the consistency and flavor may differ slightly!
How Long Does Chia Seed Pudding Last in the Fridge?
This pudding will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before enjoying any leftovers, and feel free to add a splash of milk to refresh the texture if needed!
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can add cocoa powder for chocolatey goodness, peanut butter for extra creaminess, or mix in fresh fruits like berries or mango. Just make sure these additions don’t overwhelm the pudding’s texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, especially if you use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness. Enjoy it without worries and share it with your vegan friends!
