Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding

Name: Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coconut milk; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional); 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Magic

I absolutely adore this Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding because it’s a delightful treat that marries the sweetness of strawberries with the creamy texture of coconut milk. The chia seeds add a satisfying crunch and a nutritious boost to this layered dessert. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a guilt-free indulgence. Each bite feels like a mini-vacation in the tropics, and I love how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up something that not only looks beautiful but tastes divine!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:11:36.233Z

When I first experimented with chia pudding, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a satisfying and healthy dessert. I decided to blend the fresh flavors of strawberries and creamy coconut milk, and the result was absolutely delicious! I love using fresh strawberries for their bright flavor, but you can easily substitute with frozen if they’re out of season.

The key to this recipe is allowing the chia seeds to absorb the coconut milk and swell up. After just a couple of hours in the fridge, they transform into a pudding-like consistency that is perfect for layering. It's a refreshing delight that I often enjoy with a sprinkle of extra coconut on top!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing strawberry flavor with a hint of coconut sweetness
Nutritious and filling for any time of the day
Naturally vegan and gluten-free
Beautifully layered and Instagram-worthy

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the stars of this pudding not just for their nutritional benefits but also for their unique texture. When soaked, they absorb liquid and expand, creating a gel-like consistency that gives this dessert its pudding-like quality. Be sure to mix them well with the coconut milk immediately after combining; this helps to prevent clumping. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the coconut milk and chia seeds together before refrigerating.

Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making this pudding a nutritious choice. They can keep you feeling full longer, ensuring that this dessert or breakfast will provide lasting energy. If you’d like to experiment, try using different seeds like flaxseeds, but keep in mind that they won't provide the same texture.

Optimal Strawberry Selection

When selecting strawberries for this recipe, look for those that are bright red and firm, with a sweet aroma. These strawberries will not only add vibrant color but also enhance the sweetness of the pudding. Avoid overripe strawberries as they may turn mushy and affect the texture of your colorful layers. You can also mix in some other berries like blueberries or raspberries for added flavor and complexity.

To prepare the strawberries, wash them gently under cool water and pat them dry before chopping. This ensures that they maintain their structure when layered in the pudding. If you're making this pudding ahead of time, consider slicing the strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and appealing. Pre-cut strawberries can release juices that could make the layers runny.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to prepare your Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup shredded coconut (for garnish)

Mix these ingredients together to create a delicious and healthy pudding.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your pudding:

Combine Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure that the chia seeds are evenly distributed.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a sealed container. Allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the chia seeds to swell and form a pudding-like texture.

Layer with Strawberries

Once the chia pudding is set, layer it with the chopped strawberries in serving glasses. You can alternate between layers of chia pudding and strawberries for a beautiful presentation.

Garnish and Serve

Top each serving with shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding!

Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of almond extract or a handful of other berries like blueberries or raspberries.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Coconut Chia Pudding is ideal for meal prepping! You can prepare it up to two days in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings. Just remember to store the chia pudding in a sealed container in the refrigerator, and layer the strawberries just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

If you prefer a thicker pudding, you can add a few more chia seeds or reduce the amount of coconut milk slightly. Adjusting these ratios can customize the texture exactly to your liking, so don’t hesitate to experiment with it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pudding in clear glasses or jars for an attractive presentation. Not only does the layering look appealing, but it also allows your guests to see the beautiful contrast between the white coconut base and the red strawberries. For a special touch, you can add a sprinkle of granola or crushed nuts on top for an added crunch.

For a tropical twist, you could drizzle some passion fruit pulp or a few slices of kiwi on top of the finished pudding. This adds not only visual appeal but also an additional burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the coconut and strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store leftover pudding?

The pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

Absolutely! You can omit the maple syrup or use a sugar substitute like stevia if you prefer.

→ Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes! This pudding is packed with nutrients and makes a healthy snack or breakfast option for kids.