Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding

Name: Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Healthy Bite Collection

I love how easy it is to whip up a delicious Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household, not just for its incredible flavor but also for its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a healthy and satisfying dessert that’s packed with nutrients. The creamy texture combined with the fresh sweetness of strawberries makes for a delightful treat that I can enjoy any time of the day.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:45:35.715Z

Creating this Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding was an exciting experience for me, especially considering how little effort it required! I started by blending ripe strawberries to create a smooth puree, which really enhanced the pudding's flavor. The chia seeds amp up the nutritional value and give the pudding that wonderful gel-like consistency, making it both filling and refreshing.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch out the strawberries for your favorite fruit, or even add in some vanilla extract for an extra kick. I learned that letting the pudding sit for a couple of hours in the fridge truly allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a creamy dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and fruity flavor that's perfect for summer
Nutritious and packed with health benefits
Easy to make and customizable with different fruits

The Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star ingredient in this pudding, providing the characteristic thick and creamy texture. When mixed with liquid, these tiny seeds absorb up to 10 times their weight, creating a gel-like consistency that transforms the coconut milk into a rich pudding. This unique property not only enhances the mouthfeel but also adds a nutritious boost, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making this dessert more fulfilling.

To achieve the perfect thickness, it’s important to allow the mixture to sit long enough for the chia seeds to hydrate properly. While the recipe suggests refrigerating for at least 2 hours, if you prefer a firmer pudding, you might want to let it chill overnight. Just keep an eye on the consistency, as different brands of chia seeds may absorb liquid at varying rates.

Customizing Your Pudding

One of the best things about this Fresh Strawberry Chia Pudding is its versatility. While strawberries are delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits such as blueberries, mangoes, or peaches. You can even create a mixed berry version by combining whatever berries you have on hand. If you choose a fruit that is less sweet than strawberries, consider adjusting the maple syrup to suit your taste.

For a different twist, try adding a sprinkle of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which can complement the sweetness of the pudding and add depth to the flavor profile. Additionally, you could substitute regular coconut milk with almond milk or oat milk for a different taste and texture, or to suit various dietary needs, such as nut allergies.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious pudding:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
1 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your pudding:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a blender, add the hulled strawberries and blend until smooth. Set aside a few pieces for garnishing if desired.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry puree, coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure everything is combined.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Serve

Spoon the pudding into bowls or jars. Top with the reserved strawberry pieces, and enjoy!

Feel free to top with nuts, seeds, or additional fruits for added texture!

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the strawberry puree. This balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the pudding.

Storage Tips

This chia pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead dessert, perfect for meal prepping. When ready to enjoy, just give it a good stir and it’ll be ready to serve. If you've added garnishes like fresh strawberries, it's best to add those just before serving to keep them fresh.

If you find that the pudding becomes too thick after a few days, you can stir in a splash of coconut milk or your preferred dairy-free milk to restore its creamy consistency. This is also a great way to add variety in flavor if you change the liquid used.

Serving Suggestions

For an aesthetically pleasing presentation, consider layering the pudding in clear jars with additional chopped strawberries and granola to provide texture. This not only makes for a pleasant visual but also enhances the eating experience with contrasted textures in every spoonful from the crunchy granola and smooth pudding.

You can also serve this chia pudding as a breakfast option by adding toppings like nuts, seeds, or your favorite yogurt. It’s a nutritious way to kickstart your day while satisfying your sweet tooth, all without guilt. If you want to serve it as a more indulgent dessert, drizzling over some melted dark chocolate can elevate the flavor profile and add a luxurious touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work too; just make sure to thaw them before blending.

→ How long does the pudding last?

The pudding can last up to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use another type of milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk will work just fine.

→ Is this pudding gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.