Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding

Name: Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 3 tablespoons chia seeds; 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional); Fresh strawberries and coconut flakes for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Favorites

I absolutely love making Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding! This recipe combines the refreshing taste of strawberries with the subtle richness of coconut, creating a delightful dessert that feels both indulgent and healthy. Chia seeds are fantastic for their texture and health benefits, soaking up the almond milk to create a creamy pudding base. It's perfect for breakfast or as a snack, especially when you want something sweet that won't derail your healthy eating habits. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to whip up!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:17:35.852Z

When I first tried this Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how delicious it was! I blended fresh strawberries with coconut milk, which gave a vibrant color and delightful flavor to the pudding. It's all about letting the chia seeds absorb the liquid for a couple of hours, which creates that wonderful, gel-like texture we all adore.

One tip that worked wonders for me was mixing the chia seeds with the coconut milk first and letting it sit for about 10 minutes before whisking in the strawberry puree. This helped prevent clumping and gave a smoother result. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your household!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing strawberry flavor balanced with creamy coconut.
Healthy and satisfying, making it a guilt-free dessert.
Great for meal prep – just make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week!

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star of this pudding, not just for their unique texture but for their impressive nutritional profile. When soaked in liquids, they expand and create a gel-like consistency that helps thicken the pudding. This transformation occurs because chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, making them an excellent source of fiber and hydration. It's essential to give them enough time to soak; the 10-minute initial wait is just a starting point to kick off this process, but longer soaking, like overnight, enhances the result even more.

If you’re looking to adjust the texture of your pudding, you can experiment with the amount of chia seeds. Adding a bit more will yield a thicker pudding, while reducing them slightly will give you a creamier consistency. Just remember that the chia seeds need to be balanced well with the liquid; too much chia can create a gummy texture, so it’s best to stick within the recommended range.

Choosing Your Sweetener

The sweetness of this Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding can be easily adjusted based on your preference. Honey and maple syrup both work beautifully here; however, you can also opt for agave syrup or stevia if you're looking for a lower-glycemic or sugar-free alternative. Start with a smaller amount, like one tablespoon, and taste before adding more. Fresh strawberries already provide natural sweetness, so you might find you don’t require as much additional sweetener after all.

If you’re preparing this pudding for kids or those with a sweet tooth, consider blending in a banana with the strawberries to enhance the sweetness naturally. This addition not only boosts flavor but also adds a creamier texture without needing more sugar. Just be aware that it will alter the overall flavor profile slightly, introducing more banana notes into your delightful dessert.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this chia pudding is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily whip up a batch (or several) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it a fantastic option for anyone looking to simplify their snacks throughout the week. Just keep in mind that it might thicken slightly more as it sits in the fridge, so feel free to stir in a splash of coconut milk to loosen it up before serving if needed.

To vary the serving options, consider layering the pudding in jars with additional fruits, nuts, or granola for a delightful parfait. This not only elevates the presentation but also adds different textures and flavors. If you're serving this at a gathering, creating a 'chia pudding bar' with various toppings could make for an interactive and fun experience!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this delicious pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
3 tablespoons chia seeds
1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
Fresh strawberries and coconut flakes for garnish

Make sure to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor in your pudding!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your strawberry coconut chia pudding:

Prepare the Chia Base

In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and chia seeds. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb some of the liquid.

Mix in the Strawberry Puree

After 10 minutes, add the pureed strawberries and honey or maple syrup if desired. Stir well until combined.

Chill the Pudding

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to let it set.

Serve

Once set, give the pudding a good stir, and serve it in bowls. Top with fresh strawberries and coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious pudding!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the coconut milk before mixing in the chia seeds!

Flavor Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are numerous ways to switch up the flavor profile of your Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding. Try incorporating other fruits like mango, blueberries, or even a hint of vanilla extract to complement the coconut base. You can puree these fruits and mix them in with the chia seeds or layer them on top for visual appeal. For those who enjoy a tropical twist, adding a little pineapple juice or zest can transport your taste buds to an island getaway.

Additionally, consider blending in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and complexity. A sprinkle of cocoa powder could even transform it into a chocolate-chia delight, perfect for dessert. The possibilities with fruit and spice combinations are endless, allowing you to tailor the pudding to your personal taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When making chia pudding, one common issue is achieving the desired consistency. If your pudding ends up too runny, this could be due to insufficient chia seeds or not allowing enough time for them to absorb the liquid. Simply add a bit more chia, stir well, and let it sit for another 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, for a thinner pudding, you can incorporate more coconut milk and adjust based on your preferred thickness.

Another potential problem could arise from not incorporating the strawberry puree thoroughly. If you notice clumps of chia seeds forming, it likely means they weren't evenly mixed with the fruit. To remedy this, ensure to whisk well after adding the puree or consider using a blender for a smoother blend. This simple step will enhance the pudding's overall mouthfeel, making each bite velvety and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries also work! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing.

→ How long can I store the pudding?

You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a perfect meal prep option.

→ Can I substitute coconut milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk or any plant-based milk can be used as a substitute.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use maple syrup or omit the sweetener entirely.