This Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding is creamy and fun! With sweet bananas and rich coconut milk, it’s like having dessert for breakfast.
You just mix everything together, let it sit, and voilà! I love topping mine with extra banana slices and a sprinkle of nuts. Who knew healthy could be so tasty? 🍌🥥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives this pudding its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk. In a pinch, almond milk or oat milk works too, but keep in mind the flavor will change.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are essential for thickening the pudding. You can substitute with flax seeds, but grind them first for better absorption. Just note that the texture will differ slightly.
Banana: Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have bananas, apple sauce or pureed mango can be good substitutes, but they will alter the taste.
Maple Syrup or Honey: This ingredient sweetens the pudding. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. Agave nectar is another alternative, as well as stevia or monk fruit for a sugar-free option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pudding Texture?
The key to smooth, thick pudding lies in the chia seeds. Make sure to mix well after adding them to the other ingredients. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes, and then stir again to avoid clumps. This helps the seeds absorb the liquid evenly.
- Start with mashing the banana first, then gradually mix in the other ingredients.
- Let it rest after mixing for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, for best results.
How to Make Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1-2 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Coconut flakes or toasted coconut chips for garnish
- Optional: a sprinkle of hemp seeds or nuts for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pudding will take about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 3 hours to chill in the refrigerator. For best results, if you have time, let it sit overnight. This allows the chia seeds to thicken the mixture properly, creating a creamy dessert you can enjoy whenever you like!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Banana:
Start by peeling your ripe banana and placing it in a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash the banana until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the base of your pudding, adding sweetness and great flavor!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the coconut milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the bowl with the mashed banana. If you like it sweeter, add in your maple syrup or honey as well. Whisk or stir the mixture well until everything is fully combined.
3. Allow it to Rest:
After mixing, let the pudding sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time is important! It allows the chia seeds to start absorbing the liquid. Give it another stir to keep the chia seeds from clumping together.
4. Chill in the Refrigerator:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 3 hours, but overnight is best for a thicker pudding. The chia seeds will expand and create a lovely, creamy texture.
5. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to enjoy your pudding, stir it once more. Spoon the creamy mixture into serving glasses or bowls. Top with fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of coconut flakes, and if you like, a few hemp seeds or nuts for some crunch!
6. Enjoy:
Your Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding is now ready to be savored! Serve it chilled for a refreshing, healthy treat any time of the day. Enjoy each bite of this delicious and nutritious pudding!
Can I Use Low-Fat Coconut Milk Instead?
Yes, you can use low-fat coconut milk, but keep in mind that the texture will be less creamy. If you prefer a richer taste, you might want to add a little extra chia seeds to compensate for the thinner consistency.
How Long Will This Pudding Last in the Fridge?
The pudding will last about 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly as it sits.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like mango, berries, or even a scoop of nut butter for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you choose a sweeter fruit!
What If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use ground flaxseeds as an alternative. However, you’ll need to adjust the amount, as flaxseeds absorb less liquid than chia seeds. Aim for a similar volume but keep an eye on the consistency!
