VANILLA BANANA CHIA PUDDING WITH COCONUT MILK
The Vanilla Banana Chia Pudding With Coconut Milk is a creamy, refreshing breakfast or snack that combines nourishing ingredients. The fibre-rich chia seeds absorb coconut milk overnight, creating a naturally thick and pudding-like base that feels both indulgent and satisfying. The gentle sweetness of ripe bananas adds fruity depth, while vanilla extract infuses the mixture with a fragrant and dessert-like note. A drizzle of maple syrup can be added for those who enjoy an extra hint of sweetness, making it easily adaptable to personal preference. This make-ahead recipe requires no cooking, saving time on busy mornings while still delivering lasting energy and nutrition. The Vanilla Banana Chia Pudding With Coconut Milk is rich in fibre, contains plant-based protein and healthy fats. It is not only vegan and gluten-free but also endlessly customisable with fruits, nuts or granola. It’s a versatile dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a wholesome delight.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Breakfast
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
British
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Prepared in Advance, No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Spring
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Raw, Quick & Easy, Healthy, Low Fat, Low/No Sugar, High Fibre
DISH TYPE
Custard
INGREDIENTS
- 36 grams | 1.27 ounces | 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 125 milliliters | 4.23 fluid ounces | ½ cup coconut milk
- 2.5 milliliters | 0.08 fluid ounces | ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 60 grams | 2.12 ounces | ½ banana, sliced
- 5 millilitres | 0.17 fluid ounces | 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 480 kilocalories
- Fat: 37.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 27.7 grams
- Carbohydrate: 32.1 grams
- Sugar: 9.8 grams
- Fibre: 14.0 grams
- Sodium: 16 milligrams
- Protein: 9.1 grams
- Calcium: 248 milligrams
- Potassium: 634 milligrams
- Iron: 7.0 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Combine Chia Seeds And Coconut Milk: Add 3 tablespoons of chia seeds to a small bowl or jar. Pour in ½ cup of coconut milk and stir thoroughly to ensure all seeds are well submerged and evenly dispersed.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well to distribute the flavour evenly throughout the coconut milk mixture.
- Sweeten If Desired: Drizzle in 1 teaspoon of maple syrup if using. Blend it well to combine all the ingredients, adjusting to taste based on the ripeness of the banana.
- Let It Rest And Stir Again: Allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes, then stir again to break up any clumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the container with a lid or cling film and place it in the refrigerator. Let it rest for at least 6 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken.
- Serve With Sliced Banana: Remove from the refrigerator, stir it gently and top with ½ a sliced banana. Serve the chia delight chilled for a refreshing and satisfying breakfast or snack.
PREPARATION TIME
10 Minutes
COOKING TIME
No cooking required
TIPS
- Mix Thoroughly Twice: Stir the pudding once after combining and again after 5 minutes to prevent seed clumping and ensure an even and creamy consistency.
- Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Choose canned full-fat coconut milk for a rich and indulgent texture. For a lighter pudding, use carton coconut milk instead.
- Customise Sweetness: Taste before adding maple syrup. The banana provides natural sweetness, so you may find an extra sweetener unnecessary.
- Jar Preparation: Use individual jars or containers with lids for easy storage and convenient portable servings.
- Allow Full Chill Time: Let the pudding set for at least 6 hours to ensure the chia seeds absorb enough liquid and thicken properly.
VARIATIONS
- Dairy-Free Alternatives: Substitute coconut milk with oat, soy, almond or rice milk to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Protein Enrichment: Stir in a tablespoon of vegan protein powder or dairy-free Greek-style yoghurt for added protein.
- Swap The Fruit: Replace banana with mango, berries, pineapple or figs for a change in flavour and texture.
- Warm Spice Additions: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg or cardamom to bring comforting warmth, which balances the coconut and banana.
- Toppings For Texture: Top with chopped nuts, granola, cacao nibs or toasted coconut flakes to introduce crunch.
- Layered Presentation: Alternate layers of chia pudding and mashed fruit or nut butter in a glass jar for a dessert-style look.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store chia pudding in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving because separation may occur.
- Batch Preparation: Multiply the ingredients and prepare several jars at once for a ready-to-eat breakfast each morning.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with banana slices, seasonal fruits or a sprinkle of seeds right before serving to retain freshness.
- Freezing Option: Freeze pudding without toppings for up to 2 weeks. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and mix well before eating.