This Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding is creamy, fruity, and super easy to make! Just mix coconut milk, chia seeds, and mashed bananas, then let it set in the fridge.
I love how it turns into a thick and yummy treat overnight. Top it with nuts or berries for some extra fun! Who knew healthy could taste so good? 🍌🥥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds a rich creaminess to the pudding. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk or even almond milk as an alternative, though it won’t be as thick.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are what give the pudding its unique texture. If you’re not a fan of chia seeds, flaxseeds can be a good substitute, but they won’t set in the same way.
Ripe Banana: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful it is! If bananas aren’t your thing, try using pureed mango or applesauce for a different twist.
Sweeteners: Maple syrup or honey adds sweetness, but feel free to adjust based on your taste. Agave syrup, stevia, or even coconut sugar are great alternatives!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Chia Seed Pudding?
The key to making a great chia seed pudding is patience! After mixing your ingredients, let it sit before refrigerating. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and swell, creating a thick pudding.
- After mixing in the chia seeds, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes—it helps reduce clumps. Stir it again after this time.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture. The longer it sits, the thicker it gets!
And don’t forget to give it a good stir before serving to get that smooth consistency!
Delicious Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- Banana slices
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Chopped nuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the pudding, plus a minimum of 4 hours for it to chill and set in the fridge. If you’re patient and let it sit overnight, you’ll get an even thicker and creamier texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Pudding Base:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Whisk together the coconut milk and the mashed banana until it’s all nicely blended. If you like it sweet, add in the maple syrup or honey along with the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined and looking delicious!
2. Adding Chia Seeds:
Now, sprinkle in the chia seeds. Stir them thoroughly into the mixture, ensuring that they’re evenly distributed. This step is important to prevent clumps from forming later on.
3. Letting it Set:
Let your mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This gives the chia seeds a chance to swell up a bit. After 5 minutes, stir it once more to break up any clumps that might have formed. Then, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or preferable, overnight.
4. Serving the Pudding:
When you’re ready to eat, give it a good stir to mix everything back together. Spoon the pudding into your serving glasses or bowls.
5. Adding Toppings:
Top your pudding with fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, and some chopped nuts for that extra crunch and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delightful Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding chilled and enjoy a healthy, tasty treat!
Can I Use Light Coconut Milk Instead of Full-Fat?
Yes, you can! Light coconut milk will make the pudding a little less creamy, but it will still work well. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly thinner.
How Long Does This Pudding Last in the Fridge?
This chia seed pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken further while sitting.
Can I Sweeten This Pudding Differently?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use agave syrup, stevia, or coconut sugar. Adjust to taste, especially if using a concentrated sweetener like stevia, as a little goes a long way.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! Consider adding fresh berries, sliced almonds, granola, or a drizzle of nut butter for variety. You can also experiment with different fruits based on the season!