Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding
Highlighted under: Light Living Kitchen
I absolutely adore making Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding as a refreshing and nutritious dessert. The way the creamy coconut blends with the tartness of fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. Chia seeds not only provide an amazing texture but also pack a punch of health benefits, making this treat an excellent choice for breakfast or a snack. I love preparing it the night before, allowing it to set beautifully, so it’s ready to enjoy in the morning or whenever the craving hits.
When I first experimented with Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding, I wanted a light and healthy dessert that would satisfy my sweet tooth without any guilt. The combination of creamy coconut milk and the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries turned out to be magic in a bowl! I discovered that letting the chia seeds soak overnight really enhances their texture, creating a pudding that’s both indulgent and delicious.
I often play with this recipe’s flavors by adding a touch of vanilla or a sprinkle of coconut flakes on top for extra texture. It’s become a favorite in my household, especially when topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey. Knowing that it’s not just tasty but also packed with fiber and omega-3s makes every bite even more enjoyable!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich coconut flavor complemented by sweet strawberries
- Nutritious chia seeds packed with omega-3 fatty acids
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Mastering the Texture
Getting the right texture in chia pudding is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Chia seeds plump up and create a gel-like consistency when they absorb liquid, turning the coconut milk into a creamy base. If your pudding seems too thick after chilling, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of coconut milk or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Monitoring the ratio of milk to chia seeds is key; typically, 1 cup of liquid to 1/4 cup of seeds is perfect for a balanced texture.
To ensure perfect thickening, make sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients before refrigerating. Whisk the coconut milk and chia seeds vigorously enough so that no clumps form. If you spot clumps forming later on, don't panic! Just give it a good stir before serving. This ensures every bite is consistently creamy with no grainy bits.
Flavor Enhancements
While the combination of coconut and strawberries is delightful, consider adding a splash of citrus for an extra zing. A teaspoon of freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering it. This works beautifully, particularly if your strawberries are on the sweeter side. Another great option is to add a pinch of sea salt to the mixture; it helps balance the sweetness and heightens the flavors of the pudding.
For those with dietary preferences or allergies, feel free to substitute. Almond milk or oat milk can replace coconut milk for a different flavor profile. If you want to keep it vegan, ensure that you're using maple syrup instead of honey. Also, consider tossing in some nuts or seeds as a topping for added crunch and nutrition. This could be especially rewarding if you're serving the pudding as a breakfast option.
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Stir well and let it sit for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Instructions
Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, chia seeds, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add Strawberries
Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Refrigerate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.
Serve
Once set, stir the pudding well and serve chilled, topped with additional slices of fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding!
Pro Tips
- For a fun twist, try adding other fruits such as mango or blueberries. You can also mix in some nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Storage Tips
Chia pudding stores wonderfully in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. You can keep it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. However, for the best texture and taste, try to consume it within 2-3 days. The chia seeds will continue to absorb moisture, which might alter the texture over time, so if you prefer a thicker pudding, eat it sooner.
If you plan to make a larger batch, consider dividing it into individual jars or containers right after preparing it. This way, you have ready-to-go servings that are easy to grab for breakfast or a snack. Just remember to give it a quick stir before you dive in to counteract any settling of the chia seeds.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding, think beyond just fresh strawberry slices. Layer it in a clear glass with granola for a beautiful dessert that offers a satisfying crunch. You can even drizzle a bit more honey or maple syrup on top to add a touch of sweetness before serving.
Consider incorporating other fruits, like blueberries or mango chunks, for a vibrant twist. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritional boost. For a fun twist, serve it with coconut yogurt on the side for a creamy accompaniment that complements the flavors beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, almond milk works great as a substitute if you're looking for a non-coconut alternative.
→ How long can I store the pudding?
The pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan recipe.
→ What other fruits can I add?
You can add virtually any fruit you like, such as blueberries, peaches, or even bananas for added flavor.
Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding
I absolutely adore making Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding as a refreshing and nutritious dessert. The way the creamy coconut blends with the tartness of fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. Chia seeds not only provide an amazing texture but also pack a punch of health benefits, making this treat an excellent choice for breakfast or a snack. I love preparing it the night before, allowing it to set beautifully, so it’s ready to enjoy in the morning or whenever the craving hits.
Created by: Jasmine Porter
Recipe Type: Light Living Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pudding
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, chia seeds, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.
Once set, stir the pudding well and serve chilled, topped with additional slices of fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
Extra Tips
- For a fun twist, try adding other fruits such as mango or blueberries. You can also mix in some nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g