Tropical Mango Coconut Chia Pudding

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this luxuriously creamy, naturally sweetened Mango Coconut Chia Pudding. This make-ahead breakfast combines the ancient superfood chia seeds with luscious tropical fruits and coconut, creating a nutritious yet indulgent start to your day.

Ingredients

For the Chia Base (4 servings):

  • 1 cup (160g) chia seeds
  • 4 cups (960ml) coconut milk (full-fat recommended)
  • 3-4 tablespoons (45-60ml) pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon (1g) sea salt

For the Mango Layer:

  • 2 ripe mangoes (about 2 cups/300g), diced
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) maple syrup

For Toppings:

  • 1 cup (150g) fresh mango chunks
  • ½ cup (40g) toasted coconut flakes
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) coconut cream
  • Lime zest from 1 lime
  • Optional: crushed macadamia nuts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Chia Base

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt
  2. Gradually add chia seeds while whisking continuously to prevent clumping
  3. Let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to break up any clusters
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight

Step 2: Prepare Mango Layer

  1. Blend fresh mango chunks with lime juice and maple syrup until smooth
  2. Adjust sweetness to taste
  3. Refrigerate until ready to assemble

Step 3: Assembly

  1. Stir the chia pudding well before using
  2. Layer in glass jars:
  • 2/3 cup chia pudding base
  • 3 tablespoons mango puree
  • 1 tablespoon coconut cream
  1. Top with fresh mango chunks, toasted coconut, and lime zest
  2. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

  • Calories: 385
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Healthy Fats: 28g
  • Omega-3s: 5g
  • Calcium: 178mg
  • Iron: 4mg

Total Time:

  • Prep: 15 minutes
  • Setting time: 4+ hours
  • Total: 4 hours 15 minutes (mostly inactive)

Pro Tips and Tricks

  1. Achieve perfect chia pudding consistency:
  • Use a 1:4 ratio of chia seeds to liquid
  • Whisk twice to prevent clumping
  • Let set for at least 4 hours
  1. Enhance the tropical flavors:
  • Toast coconut flakes until golden brown
  • Use ripe mangoes for natural sweetness
  • Add a splash of coconut extract
  1. Make it Instagram-worthy:
  • Layer in clear glasses
  • Create distinct layers
  • Add toppings just before serving

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Milk Options:
  • Almond milk for lighter version
  • Oat milk for nut-free option
  • Cashew milk for extra creaminess
  1. Fruit Variations:
  • Pineapple puree
  • Passion fruit
  • Papaya
  • Mixed tropical fruits
  1. Sweetener Options:
  • Agave nectar
  • Date syrup
  • Coconut nectar
  • Stevia for sugar-free version

Frequently Asked Questions

Why didn’t my chia pudding thicken?

Ensure you’re using the correct chia to liquid ratio and whisk well to prevent clumping. Allow sufficient setting time.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! Prepare base pudding for up to 5 days. Add fresh toppings just before serving.

How can I make it more protein-rich?

Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or top with hemp seeds and nuts.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if you substitute maple syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener and moderate the mango portion.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Basic Storage

  • Chia base: 5-7 days refrigerated
  • Assembled puddings: 2-3 days refrigerated
  • Mango puree: 3-4 days refrigerated

Meal Prep Strategy

  1. Make large batch of chia base
  2. Prepare mango puree separately
  3. Toast coconut in advance
  4. Store components separately
  5. Assemble night before or morning of

Freezing Instructions

  • Freeze chia base in portions
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator
  • Add fresh toppings after thawing

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