Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups coconut milk; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup shredded coconut; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore these Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits! They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to put together. The combination of creamy coconut and fresh strawberries makes for a refreshing snack or breakfast that brightens my day. Chia seeds bring a unique texture and boost the nutrition, giving me energy and satisfaction. Ready in just a few minutes, these parfaits are perfect for any occasion. Trust me; you’ll keep coming back for more once you try this delightful treat!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:19:15.475Z

Creating these Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits was a delightful experience. I remember the first time I layered the ingredients—I was genuinely surprised by how simple yet flavorful they turned out! The chia seeds absorb the coconut milk overnight, turning creamy and thick, which makes the base so luscious. I use fresh strawberries as they add the perfect tartness.

One tip I learned is to let the chia mixture sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This not only enhances the texture but also allows the coconut flavor to infuse. When I add the strawberries and the final touch of coconut on top, I feel like I’ve crafted something truly special!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing coconut flavor complemented by juicy strawberries
Healthy chia seeds provide a satisfying crunch
Quick and easy to prepare for a healthy breakfast or snack

      

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star of this parfait, offering not just texture but an impressive nutritional profile. They can absorb up to 10-12 times their weight in liquid, creating a delightful gel-like consistency in the chia pudding. It’s essential to let them soak properly – ideally overnight – to achieve that perfect pudding texture. If you’re short on time, letting the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes can still work, but you might notice a slightly less cohesive texture.

Another factor to consider is the quality of chia seeds you use. Look for darker-colored seeds that haven’t been exposed to moisture, as they will produce a better pudding. Chia seeds are also rich in fibers, which help promote satiety and aid digestion, making this parfait not only delicious but a smart choice for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Coconut Milk Variations

Coconut milk provides a luscious creaminess that pairs beautifully with strawberries, but the type you choose can impact the final flavor. Full-fat coconut milk will give a richer, more indulgent pudding, while light coconut milk offers a lighter texture with fewer calories. If you're dairy-free, both options work perfectly, but make sure to shake or stir the can thoroughly before measuring to ensure even consistency.

In case you want to switch it up, try using almond milk, cashew milk, or oat milk instead of coconut milk. Each alternative will impart its unique taste and texture to the dish. Just be cautious with almond or oat milks, which are typically thinner – you may need to adjust the proportion of chia seeds slightly to achieve a similar pudding consistency.

Storage and Serving Tips

These Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chia pudding in advance. Store the pudding on its own in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just give it a good stir before assembling the parfaits. This makes it an ideal meal prep option that saves time during busy mornings or for a quick, nutritious snack throughout the week.

When serving, consider layering in jars or cups for a beautiful presentation. To elevate the experience, drizzle a bit of honey or agave syrup on top before serving or sprinkle some crushed almonds for extra crunch. You can also swap in seasonal fruits for toppings, like sliced kiwi or blueberries, which can create a vibrant and appealing contrast in flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chia Pudding

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups coconut milk
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup shredded coconut
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare Chia Pudding

In a bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. Let it sit for 5 minutes and then whisk again to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Assemble Parfaits

In a serving glass, layer the chia pudding, sliced strawberries, and shredded coconut. Repeat the layers until the glass is full, finishing with a layer of strawberries and a sprinkle of coconut on top.

Garnish and Serve

Add mint leaves for garnish, if desired. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before enjoying.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out strawberries for other fruits like mango or blueberries. You can also adjust the sweetness of the chia pudding based on your preference.

Troubleshooting Chia Pudding

A common issue with chia pudding is clumping, which can happen if the seeds are not mixed adequately after initial soaking. Make sure to whisk them thoroughly into the liquid initially, and don't skip the second whisk after 5 minutes. If you notice lumps despite your efforts, simply blend the mixture in a blender for a few seconds to break them up.

Another potential challenge is achieving the right thickness. If your pudding is too runny after refrigerating, you can gently stir in a bit more chia seeds and let it sit for another 15-20 minutes. If it ends up being too thick, just add a splash of coconut milk to loosen it back up.

Creative Variations

Don’t hesitate to switch up the toppings and flavors according to your taste. You could add a layer of honeyed yogurt instead of coconut milk for a creamier effect or incorporate different fruits like bananas or berries. For a tropical twist, mix in some diced mango or pineapple with the coconut layering for an explosion of flavors.

Additionally, spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to the chia pudding for a warm, inviting flavor. A pinch of salt can enhance the chocolate variation if you opt to include cocoa powder for a richer dessert. Experimenting with flavors and toppings is half the fun of making chia parfaits!

Scaling the Recipe

If you're preparing for a gathering or want to make multiple servings, this chia parfait recipe can easily be scaled up. Just remember that for every additional cup of coconut milk, you should add a quarter cup more chia seeds. This ensures the same satisfying texture without compromising the overall experience.

For larger batches, consider using a larger mixing bowl and ample storage containers. Individual jars or cups make great portable options for meal prep. With these adjustments, you can accommodate any number of guests or simply stock your fridge for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, any plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk will work well.

→ How long can I store the chia pudding?

The chia pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are plant-based.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chia pudding the night before for a quick breakfast the next day!