Name: Delicious Mango Coconut Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 3 tablespoons chia seeds; 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped; 2 tablespoons coconut yogurt or coconut milk; 1 pinch sea salt; Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish; Extra diced mango, for topping

Escape to the tropics with this refreshing Mango Coconut Chia Pudding, a delightful recipe that embodies the lush flavors of summer. This pudding is not just a quick breakfast idea, but also serves as a healthy snack or an elegant dessert option that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy coconut milk, nutty chia seeds, and sweet ripe mango offers a satisfying experience that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

One of the best things about this Mango Coconut Chia Pudding is its versatility. It’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for an array of dietary preferences and an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat. Whether you’re fueling up after a workout, need a convenient grab-and-go breakfast, or are simply looking to impress guests with a decadent dessert, this recipe has got you covered. Preparing it is a breeze, requiring minimal effort while providing maximum flavor and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Mango Coconut Chia Pudding

This tropical treat is not only easy to prepare but also packed with health benefits, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire:

Deliciously Creamy: The combination of full-fat coconut milk and coconut yogurt delivers a rich, creamy texture that will satisfy your cravings.
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber from chia seeds and essential vitamins from fresh mango, this pudding is a nutrient powerhouse.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and the ability to set overnight, it’s perfect for busy individuals.
Customizable: Whether you prefer it with more mango, a touch of cinnamon, or different toppings, it’s easy to adjust to your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into creating your Mango Coconut Chia Pudding, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace effectively. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients: full-fat coconut milk, chia seeds, ripe mango, coconut yogurt, maple syrup, and sea salt. You’ll need a medium mixing bowl for whisking the ingredients, a few glass jars or containers for storing the pudding, and a blender for pureeing the mango. Having these tools on hand will streamline the cooking process and ensure that everything flows smoothly. Clean surfaces and utensils will prevent any cross-contamination and make the actual cooking part more enjoyable.

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients:

1 cup full-fat coconut milk
3 tablespoons chia seeds
1–2 teaspoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons coconut yogurt or coconut milk
1 pinch sea salt
Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
Extra diced mango, for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the Base

Start by adding the full-fat coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to a medium-sized bowl. Use a whisk to blend everything together thoroughly. This step is crucial because it ensures that all the ingredients are well incorporated, giving your pudding the perfect texture. Don’t forget to add a pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavors!

Step 2: Allow to Thicken

Once mixed, let your chia mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This initial resting period allows the chia seeds to absorb the coconut milk and swell, creating a gel-like consistency. After this time, stir the mixture again to prevent any clumping of the chia seeds, which can happen if they sit too long without being stirred.

Step 3: Refrigerate

Next, pour the chia mixture into individual glass jars or containers, aiming to create even layers for a beautiful presentation. Cover these jars and refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, allowing the pudding to set. For best results, let it sit overnight so that the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Mango Puree

While waiting for your pudding to set, take half of the chopped mango and place it in a blender. Add the coconut yogurt or a bit of coconut milk, and blend until smooth. This luscious mango puree will be the delicious topping for your pudding, adding natural sweetness and a burst of tropical flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

After your pudding has fully set, take it out from the fridge. Top each jar generously with the mango puree, followed by the remaining fresh mango cubes for added texture. Finally, garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a delightful crunch and a sprinkle of chia seeds if desired. Your colorful, healthy dessert is now ready to enjoy!

Variations

Explore the exciting possibilities with these variations to suit your palate:

Protein: For an added protein boost, consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite protein powder to the mix.
Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile by adding finely grated zucchini or carrots into your base for a subtle twist.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give your pudding an aromatic kick.

Cooking Notes

Keep these helpful cooking notes in mind:

Ensure you use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Light coconut milk may not yield the same level of creaminess.
Chia seeds can absorb a significant amount of liquid, so be cautious with the amounts.
If preparing for a crowd, simply double or triple the recipe, adjusting the ingredient amounts accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Mango Coconut Chia Pudding experience, consider these serving suggestions:

Pair it with a side of fresh tropical fruits like pineapple or kiwi for an invigorating breakfast bowl.
Serve in elegant glassware to impress guests at your next dinner party.

Tips

Here are some additional tips to perfect your pudding:

Make sure your mango is perfectly ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
Stir the pudding thoroughly both before setting and right before serving to maintain an even consistency.
If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge, but try to consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (setting time not counted)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including setting)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 300
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 20mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute soy milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk. However, this will alter the flavor and the creaminess of the pudding.

How do I know when the chia pudding is set?

The pudding should have a thick, jelly-like consistency, which typically takes at least 4 hours in the fridge to achieve.

What if I don’t have mango?

You can easily swap the mango for other fruits like peaches, strawberries, or bananas. Just blend them into a puree and top off the pudding.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld and can save you time in the morning.

Conclusion

This Mango Coconut Chia Pudding is not just a dish; it’s a tropical escape packed into a jar! With its creamy texture, nutrient-rich ingredients, and versatility, it’s perfect for any time of the day—be it breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Invite your loved ones to enjoy it, and don’t hesitate to share your variations and experiences by commenting below! Whether you try it plain or dressed up with extra toppings, you will find that this pudding is a nourishing yet indulgent treat that will leave you wanting more.