I’m always hunting for desserts that are as nourishing as they are delicious, and coconut chia pudding lands at the top of my list. This recipe delivers a creamy, dreamy treat made with minimal ingredients and no fuss, perfect for breakfast, snacking, or an after-dinner delight. It’s easy enough for anyone to master and endlessly customizable. If you love tropical flavors, simple prep, and foods that make you feel good from the inside out, you’re about to meet your new go-to dessert!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Minimal ingredients and prep — anyone can do this
- No baking or special equipment required
- Creamy, luscious texture with a fresh coconut flavor
- Naturally sweetened and easy on your digestion
- Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein
- Perfect for meal prep and customizable to your taste
Ingredients:
- 1 can (400 ml) of coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (based on sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: fresh fruit (mango, berries, banana), toasted coconut flakes, nuts, seeds, edible flowers

How to Make:
- Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla, and salt until fully blended and smooth.
- Add Chia Seeds: Stir in the chia seeds thoroughly so they’re evenly distributed—no clumps!
- Rest & Set: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight). The chia seeds will soak up the liquid and the mixture will thicken to a pudding-like consistency.
- Stir and Serve: After resting, give your pudding a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a little more coconut milk to loosen it up.
- Finish with Toppings: Spoon into individual cups or small jars and dress it up with your favorite toppings.
Expert Tips:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest pudding — lite versions yield a thinner texture
- Sweeten to taste; remember that toppings like fruit will add more natural sweetness
- Stir the mixture again about 20 minutes into chilling to prevent the chia seeds from settling at the bottom
- A glass jar makes for easy mixing, storage, and a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack
Recipe Variations:
- Berry Bliss: Stir in a handful of mashed raspberries or blueberries
- Chocolate Dream: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist
- Tropical: Top with pineapple chunks, passion fruit, or kiwi
- Nutty Crunch: Add almond butter or chopped pecans for a protein boost
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warming, aromatic flavor
Storage and Reheating:
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered
- This pudding is best enjoyed chilled and does not require (or respond well to) reheating
- For meal prep, portion into individual serving jars for convenience
Serving Suggestions:
- As a wholesome breakfast topped with granola and banana
- A light dessert after dinner with a sprinkle of toasted coconut
- Midday snack before or after the gym
- Layered in a parfait glass with fruit and seeds for a pretty brunch option
Description
I'm always hunting for desserts that are as nourishing as they are delicious, and coconut chia pudding lands at the top of my list. This recipe delivers a creamy, dreamy treat made with minimal ingredients and no fuss, perfect for breakfast, snacking, or an after-dinner delight. It’s easy enough for anyone to master and endlessly customizable. If you love tropical flavors, simple prep, and foods that make you feel good from the inside out, you’re about to meet your new go-to dessert!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla, and salt until fully blended and smooth.
-
Add Chia Seeds
Stir in the chia seeds thoroughly so they’re evenly distributed—no clumps!
-
Rest & Set
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight). The chia seeds will soak up the liquid and the mixture will thicken to a pudding-like consistency.
-
Stir and Serve
After resting, give your pudding a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a little more coconut milk to loosen it up.
-
Finish with Toppings
Spoon into individual cups or small jars and dress it up with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Total Carbohydrate 17g6%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 90 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat) instead of coconut milk for a lighter version
- Make it sugar-free by using a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the pudding after it sets
- Adjust thickness by playing with the seed-to-milk ratio