This Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding is a creamy delight! Made with just bananas, coconut milk, and chia seeds, it’s simple yet oh-so-delicious.
Honestly, it’s like a tropical vacation in a bowl! I love topping mine with some extra fruit for a colorful twist. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives the pudding a creamy texture and rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk or even almond milk, though it will affect the creaminess.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are crucial for thickening the pudding. If you’re looking for a different texture, you can try flaxseeds, though they won’t thicken exactly the same way and will alter the flavor.
Banana: A ripe banana adds natural sweetness and flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have any on hand, try using applesauce or a bit of pureed mango as a substitute.
Maple Syrup or Honey: While these sweeteners are optional, they can add a nice touch. You could also use agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie option.
How Do I Get My Chia Seed Pudding to Be Perfectly Thick?
The key to a satisfying chia seed pudding is letting it sit long enough for the chia seeds to absorb the liquid. Here’s how to make sure your pudding thickens properly:
- After mixing the ingredients, transfer them to a jar with a lid. This helps prevent spills and keeps it fresh.
- Allow the mixture to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Overnight is even better.
- Check the texture before serving. If it seems too thick, stir in a little coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Remember, chia seeds can take longer to absorb liquid in cooler environments, so don’t rush this step for the best results!
Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For Topping:
- Banana slices
- Coconut flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. For best results, let it sit overnight. That way, the chia seeds have plenty of time to soak up the coconut milk and become nice and thick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, mashed banana, maple syrup (if you like it sweeter), and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where all the creamy goodness happens!
2. Adding the Chia Seeds:
Next, stir in the chia seeds, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. These little seeds will soak up the liquid and help thicken your pudding!
3. Storing It:
Transfer the mixture into a jar or a container with a lid. This will keep your pudding fresh and make it easy to grab when you’re ready to enjoy it.
4. Chilling Time:
Put the container in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This will allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and transform the mixture into a thick pudding.
5. Final Touches:
When you’re ready to serve, give the pudding a good stir. If it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash of coconut milk to get it to your desired consistency.
6. Serving Your Pudding:
Now for the fun part! Spoon the pudding into jars or bowls. Top it off with fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of coconut flakes for a delightful finish.
7. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy this lovely, nutritious Banana Coconut Milk Chia Seed Pudding as a refreshing breakfast or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Almond Milk Instead of Coconut Milk?
Yes, you can use almond milk if you prefer, but the pudding will be less creamy. If using almond milk, consider adding a little extra chia seeds to achieve a similar thickness.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chia Seed Pudding?
Leftover pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and add a splash of coconut milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Sweeten This Recipe with Sugar Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! You can use granulated sugar, brown sugar, or any sweetener of your choice. Just keep in mind that sweetness is subjective, so adjust the amount to your taste!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! You can top the pudding with berries, nuts, granola, or even a dollop of yogurt for added flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!
