Embrace this luscious coconut milk chia pudding made with simple ingredients and only 5 minutes of prep! Whether you’re seeking a healthy breakfast recipe or a perfect snack, this pudding is sure to delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple: This recipe is the epitome of simplicity, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. It’s straightforward enough for beginners yet satisfying for seasoned cooks, emphasizing the beauty of minimalist cooking.
- Versatile: Whether you prefer it as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, this pudding adapts to your needs. It’s a canvas for creativity, allowing you to experiment with various toppings and mix-ins like fresh fruit, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter, catering to different tastes and occasions.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients from chia seeds, such as omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, this pudding is not just delicious but also nourishing. Coconut milk adds healthy fats, while maple syrup provides natural sweetness, making this dish a wholesome choice for promoting overall wellness.
Nutrition For Mental Health
Chia seeds are not just a culinary ingredient but a powerhouse of nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, magnesium, and phosphorus. Chia seeds also contain a good amount of vitamins B1, B3, zinc, iron, and calcium. Chia seeds have been shown to have antianxiety and antidepressant effects.
Coconut milk is high in plant-based fat, mainly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). It is also rich in iron, magnesium, copper, selenium, and manganese. Coconut milk is also a good source of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and manganese. Coconut milk has been shown to protect against oxidative damage. An animal study showed that coconut milk can have an anti-anxiety effect.
known for their potential benefits in cognitive function and mood regulation. Together, these ingredients make a meal that not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your mind.
Ingredients
Enjoy this simple recipe for creamy coconut chia pudding.
- Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition and gel up perfectly, making the perfect base for a delicious pudding.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, floral aroma that enhances the natural sweetness and complexity of dishes.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener derived from the sap of maple trees, offering a rich, earthy sweetness with hints of caramel.
- Coconut Milk: Extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts, this creamy, tropical milk infuses recipes with a velvety texture and a subtly sweet, nutty flavor, while also providing healthy fats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here are helpful step-by-step photos for a flawless coconut chia seed pudding recipe.
- Add chia seeds, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and milk into a jar.
- Stir thoroughly until well combined. Screw on lid and place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Serve with fresh berries on top.
Recipe Variations
Enjoy this luscious coconut chia pudding recipe as is, or make adjustments as needed. Here are some recommendations based on diet and preference.
- Milk: This recipe is specifically coconut milk focused. You can use light coconut milk, full-fat coconut milk, or even canned coconut milk. I don’t recommend using coconut cream unless you add some water to balance it out. If you’re super adventurous, feel free to use homemade coconut milk! I don’t recommend using other plant milk, such as almond milk, because that would change the entire flavor.
- Sweetener: Feel free to use your favorite sweetener of choice! I tend to use maple syrup, however, monk fruit, agave nectar, or fruit juice for different natural sweetness profiles.
Servings Ideas
This coconut chia pudding recipe is delicious as is. However, if you want to take it up a notch, here are my top recommendations for toppings and sides.
- Nut Butter: Adding a dollop of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, introduces a creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the subtle sweetness of the pudding. It also boosts the protein content, making it even more satisfying.
- Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of citrus zest can brighten up the pudding with a refreshing burst of flavor. Orange zest, lime zest, and lemon zest each offer their own touch of flavor.
- Coconut Flakes: Topping the pudding with toasted coconut flakes introduces a delightful crunch and intensifies the coconut flavor. This addition not only enhances the texture but also boosts the tropical vibe of the dish, making each spoonful a little escape to paradise.
- Coconut Yogurt: Are you a big fan of coconut? Add a dollop of vegan coconut yogurt on top!
- Berries: Top with berries like fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
- Muffins: Enjoy this perfect healthy breakfast alongside Vegan Blueberry Muffins, Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, or Vegan Banana Bread Muffins.
- Scones: This chia pudding with coconut milk pairs perfectly with this Raspberry Scones recipe!
Storage Tips
Store the pudding in individual jars or an airtight container made of glass to maintain freshness and align with sustainable living practices. Properly stored chia pudding can last 5-7 days in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead option.
FAQ
Absolutely! It’s a nutrient-rich option that supports overall wellness.
The carb content primarily comes from the chia seeds and the natural sweeteners used.
In moderation, chia pudding can be a healthy part of your daily diet.
Chia seeds are high in fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
Recipe
Coconut Milk Chia Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
Instructions
- Add chia seeds, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and milk into a jar.
- Stir thoroughly until well combined. Screw on lid and place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Serve with fresh berries on top.
Loved this simple recipe. I also love the addition of the nutrition for mental health!
So glad you are liking the nutrition for mental health information included in these recipes!