Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding: The Tropical, No-Bake Breakfast Dream

Are you searching for a dessert that doubles as a healthy breakfast, feels utterly luxurious, yet requires almost zero effort? Look no further. This Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding recipe is the answer to your tropical food cravings, blending the creamy richness of coconut milk with the sun-drenched sweetness of fresh mango. Forget heavy baked goods; this pudding is light, refreshing, vibrant, and packed with nutrients that will power your day.

The beauty of the Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding lies in its simplicity. It’s a make-ahead marvel just 15 minutes of prep time separates you from four servings of pure, layered bliss. We start with a smooth, bright mango puree base, topped with a thick, satisfying layer of creamy coconut chia seeds. As the chia seeds hydrate overnight, they transform the liquids into a pudding-like consistency, ready to grab-and-go straight from the fridge in the morning. This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs. If you’re ready to introduce a little slice of tropical paradise into your routine, keep reading you’ll want to bookmark this recipe immediately. It’s more than just a pudding; it’s an experience in flavor and convenience, promising a vibrant start or end to any day.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

This isn’t just another chia pudding recipe; this is a carefully balanced symphony of flavors and textures designed to delight. The combination of sweet mango and rich coconut milk creates a taste profile reminiscent of a vacation a perfect escape from the mundane, even if you’re just eating it at your kitchen table. But the love for this Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding goes far beyond taste. Here are several compelling reasons why this recipe will become a permanent fixture in your rotation:

Effortless Preparation: A True Make-Ahead Champion

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for a nutritious meal can be challenging. That’s where the magic of no-bake, overnight recipes comes in. With only 15 minutes of active preparation, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy schedule. You can whip up a batch on Sunday evening, and have four days of healthy breakfasts or guilt-free snacks ready to go. The chill time does all the heavy lifting, giving you back precious morning minutes. Unlike baking or complex stovetop desserts, there’s virtually no risk of failure; mixing ingredients and letting time do its work is all that is required.

A Texture Sensation: Creamy, Smooth, and Satisfying

Some people find plain chia pudding a bit too gelatinous or monotonous. This recipe solves that problem by introducing two distinct, delightful layers. The bottom layer is a luscious, silky-smooth mango puree that melts in your mouth. The top layer is the thick, pearl-like texture of the hydrated chia seeds, enveloped in a creamy coconut cloud. When you take a spoonful, you get the perfect contrast: the vibrant, smooth fruit followed by the gentle, satisfying pop of the seeds. This layered approach elevates the pudding from a simple snack to a sophisticated dessert.

Tropical Flavor Fusion: Mango and Coconut Perfection

Mango and coconut are a quintessential pairing, deeply ingrained in tropical cuisine for a reason. Mango offers natural sweetness and a slight tang, while full-fat coconut milk provides unparalleled richness and depth. Using canned coconut milk (stirred well) ensures maximum creaminess, delivering that authentic island flavor. This combination is intensely flavorful without being overly sweet, making it suitable for everyone, even those who prefer less sugar. The optional vanilla extract further enhances the inherent sweetness, grounding the exotic flavors in familiar comfort.

Perfectly Portable and Visually Stunning

Layering the mango and chia pudding in individual jars or glasses makes this dish ideal for meal prepping and transport. They look beautiful sitting in the fridge, and the vibrant contrast between the golden mango and the pale coconut layer (or speckled black, if you use black chia seeds) makes for an impressive presentation. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, packing it for a lunch break, or presenting it as a light dessert, the Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is guaranteed to turn heads. To make it even more visually appealing, consider adding an extra swirl of bright mango on top before serving.

Why You Should Try This Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding Recipe Today

Beyond the delightful taste and tropical appeal, this Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding offers tangible benefits for your health and lifestyle. Switching out traditional, high-sugar breakfast cereals or heavy pastries for this nutrient-dense alternative can significantly impact your daily energy and well-being. This is an invitation to indulge wisely, integrating superfoods into a genuinely delicious treat. If you’ve been looking for a way to improve your gut health, boost your fiber intake, or simply find a new go-to recipe, here are the compelling reasons to try this dish right now:

A Powerhouse of Nutrition and Fiber

The star of the show, the humble chia seed, is nothing short of a nutritional powerhouse. These tiny seeds are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain health and reducing inflammation. They are also exceptionally high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Combining this with the Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and antioxidants found abundantly in mango makes this pudding a serious health boost disguised as a decadent treat. Eating this pudding means starting your day feeling energized and nourished, not heavy or sluggish.

Suitable for Almost All Dietary Restrictions

Finding desserts or breakfasts that cater to multiple dietary needs can often feel impossible, but this recipe effortlessly checks all the boxes. It is naturally:

• Vegan/Dairy-Free: We use coconut milk, eliminating the need for any animal products.
• Gluten-Free: Chia seeds and mango are naturally gluten-free.
• Refined Sugar-Free (Optional): The sweetness comes primarily from the mango and maple syrup/agave, allowing you to control the added sugar completely.

This versatility makes it perfect for serving guests or for families with diverse nutritional requirements. You don’t have to compromise on flavor just because you’re choosing healthier or restrictive options.

The Perfect Summer (or All-Year-Round) Treat

While the tropical flavor profile screams summer, this pudding is suitable any time of the year. During the winter, when fresh mangoes might be expensive, frozen mango chunks (which are often picked at peak ripeness) work perfectly well for the puree. The cold, creamy texture is incredibly refreshing during hot weather, offering a cooling alternative to baked goods. Furthermore, its light nature ensures you feel satisfied without being weighed down, whether you enjoy it as a post-workout recovery snack or an evening dessert.

If you’re already incorporating healthy, easy-to-make meals into your rotation, perhaps alongside something savory like Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets for an appetizer spread, this sweet, no-cook recipe provides essential balance. Give this Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding a chance you’ll quickly realize how simple it is to integrate nutrient-dense, exotic flavors into your daily life.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Best Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

Achieving the perfect consistency and flavor in this Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding hinges on using high-quality ingredients, particularly the coconut milk and ripe mango. Although the ingredient list is short and sweet, the details matter when ensuring optimal hydration and layering. We’ll break down the necessary components and the tools required to make this process seamless.

Precise Ingredients for Tropical Pudding Perfection

This recipe is split into two main sections: the vibrant mango puree layer and the creamy chia seed base. We recommend using organic ingredients where possible to maximize flavor and nutritional integrity.

For the Mango Puree Layer (The Sweet Foundation):

• 2 cups fresh or frozen mango chunks (thawed): The quality of the mango directly impacts the final taste. If using fresh, ensure they are ripe and sweet. If using frozen, thaw them completely before blending to achieve a smoother consistency.
• 2 tablespoons water or coconut milk (if needed for blending): This acts as a stabilizer and helps the blender process the mango into a smooth liquid. Start with a small amount and only add more if the blender struggles.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste): Mangoes vary widely in sweetness. Taste your mango first. If it is perfectly ripe and sweet, you may omit this entirely. If it’s slightly tart, the maple syrup balances the flavor beautifully.

For the Chia Seed Base (The Creamy Heart):

• 1/2 cup white or black chia seeds: Both colors work identically in terms of setting power and nutrition. White chia seeds result in a lighter, cleaner-looking pudding, while black chia seeds are slightly more common.
• 2 cups full-fat coconut milk (canned, stirred well) or unsweetened almond milk: This is a crucial choice. For the ultimate rich, creamy texture and powerful coconut flavor, use canned, full-fat coconut milk. Make sure to stir the contents well before measuring. If you prefer a lighter, lower-calorie pudding, unsweetened almond milk works, but the texture will be slightly less thick and the coconut flavor will be mild.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar: This sweetens the chia base. Maple syrup complements the tropical notes exceptionally well. You can adjust this amount based on your sweetness preference; start with 3 tablespoons if you like things less sweet.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the subtle flavors of both the coconut and the mango, adding complexity.
• Pinch of sea salt: A tiny bit of salt is essential! It doesn’t make the pudding taste salty, but it expertly balances the sweetness and brings all the tropical flavors forward.

For Garnish and Toppings (Optional, The Finishing Touch):

• 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes or shredded coconut: Toasting the coconut dramatically improves its flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Extra diced fresh mango: Small cubes of mango on top provide fresh textural contrast.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds color, freshness, and aromatic appeal.

Essential Tools and Utensils for Preparation

Making this layered Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding requires minimal equipment, making clean-up a breeze. These tools ensure smooth mixing and perfect presentation:

1. High-Speed Blender or Food Processor: Absolutely essential for achieving a lump-free, silky mango puree. If your blender is low-powered, you may need to add slightly more liquid (coconut milk or water) to get the mixture moving.
2. Large Mixing Bowl: Necessary for whisking the chia seed base. You need enough room to vigorously combine the liquid and the seeds without splashing.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is important, especially with the ratio of chia seeds to liquid. Too little liquid, and the pudding will be overly thick; too much, and it won’t set.
4. Whisk or Fork: A whisk is the best tool for mixing the chia base. Vigorous whisking prevents the chia seeds from clumping together or sinking straight to the bottom before they have a chance to hydrate evenly.
5. Four Serving Glasses, Jars, or Ramekins: Individual serving containers are best for chilling and serving. Jars with lids (like mason jars) are ideal for meal prepping and transport.
6. Plastic Wrap or Container Lids: Needed to cover the puddings while they chill in the refrigerator to prevent them from absorbing fridge odors.
7. Rubber Spatula (Optional but helpful): Useful for scraping down the sides of the blender when making the mango puree and for carefully pouring the layers.

Gathering these simple ingredients and tools ensures that your journey to a perfect batch of Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is smooth, efficient, and delicious. Once you master this simple technique, you can easily pivot to other fruit-based puddings, like a No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie for a different kind of indulgent treat.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Creating Your Layered Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

The beauty of this recipe lies in the distinct layers. Following these detailed instructions ensures both the puree and the chia base set perfectly, resulting in a stunning presentation and ideal texture. Remember, precision in measuring and vigorous mixing in the early stages are keys to success.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum) or overnight | Servings: 4

STEP 1: PREPARE THE MANGO PUREE (The Vibrant Base)

This first step sets the stage for the entire dessert. A smooth, well-flavored puree is essential.

1. Combine Ingredients: Place the 2 cups of mango chunks (ensuring they are thawed if using frozen), 2 tablespoons of liquid (water or coconut milk), and the optional 1 tablespoon of sweetener (maple syrup or honey) into your high-speed blender or food processor.
2. Blend Until Silky: Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You are looking for a consistency similar to Greek yogurt or very thick smoothie. If the mixture is too thick and the blades are stalling, add liquid one teaspoon at a time until a smooth vortex forms.
3. Crucial Tip: Ensure there are absolutely no lingering chunks remaining. Mango fiber can be tough, so blend for a full 60 to 90 seconds if necessary. A smooth puree ensures a perfect contrast with the textured chia seeds later.
4. Divide and Chill: Carefully divide the mango puree equally among four separate serving glasses or jars. Pour approximately half a cup of the puree into the bottom of each container to create the first layer. Gently tap the jars on the counter to level the puree.
5. Refrigerate Promptly: Place the containers into the refrigerator while you move on to preparing the chia base. This brief chilling period helps the mango layer firm up slightly, making it less likely to mix with the chia seed base when poured on top.

STEP 2: MIX THE CHIA SEED BASE (Hydration is Key)

The success of the chia pudding depends entirely on proper hydration and distribution of the seeds. Do not skip the resting and whisking stages.

1. Combine Wet and Dry: In a large mixing bowl, pour the 2 cups of full-fat coconut milk (or alternative milk), 1/2 cup of chia seeds, 1/4 cup of maple syrup or agave, the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the pinch of sea salt.
2. Whisk Vigorously (First Time): Take your whisk or fork and combine the ingredients vigorously for approximately 60 seconds. This initial rapid whisking is paramount to fully incorporate the chia seeds into the liquid. If you simply stir gently, the seeds will clump up and sink to the bottom, resulting in an unevenly set pudding.
3. Initial Rest and Second Whisking: Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes at room temperature. During this short rest, the seeds begin to swell and absorb some of the liquid. After 5 minutes, whisk again for another 30 seconds. This secondary whisking is critical it ensures the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the liquid and prevents them from settling heavily at the very bottom, resulting in a consistent pudding texture.
4. Practical Tip for Texture: If you use full-fat canned coconut milk, the mixture may seem very thick initially. Keep whisking until it is uniform. If using thinner milk (like almond milk), the mixture will be more liquid, but still requires the same vigorous mixing.

STEP 3: ASSEMBLE AND CHILL THE PUDDING (The Waiting Game)

Assembly is the most delicate part, as you want to maintain clean, defined layers.

1. Remove from Fridge: Retrieve the mango-layered glasses or jars from the refrigerator.
2. Pour Carefully: Slowly and deliberately pour the chia seed mixture over the top of the chilled mango puree layer in each glass. To ensure the layers remain distinct, it helps to pour the chia mixture gently over the back of a spoon held just above the mango layer. This disperses the liquid flow and minimizes disruption.
3. Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the tops of the glasses tightly with plastic wrap or seal them with lids.
4. Chill Time Mandate: Refrigerate the puddings for at least 4 hours. However, for the best, creamiest, and most satisfying consistency, it is highly recommended to chill them overnight (8+ hours). This extended chilling allows the chia seeds to fully hydrate and set into that signature thick, creamy consistency. Do not rush this step, as under-chilled pudding will be runny.

STEP 4: SERVE AND GARNISH (The Tropical Finale)

Your Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is now ready to impress!

1. Check for Set: Once the pudding has set completely (it should not slosh when gently tilted), remove it from the refrigerator.
2. Garnish for Texture and Visual Appeal: If desired, top each serving with your optional garnishes. Sprinkle generously with toasted coconut flakes for crunch. Add a few extra diced mango chunks for fresh sweetness and a sprig of mint for color. Toasting the coconut can be done quickly in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden.
3. Serving and Storage: Serve immediately while cold. Leftovers store exceptionally well they can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, maintaining freshness and texture. They even make a wonderful afternoon pick-me-up, a much healthier alternative to processed desserts.

Tips and Variations to Perfect Your Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

While the classic recipe for Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is flawless, sometimes we need flexibility due to ingredient availability, dietary preferences, or simply a desire for variety. Here are expert tips and creative variations to help you customize this recipe and avoid common mistakes.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Pudding

Consistency and layering are the two biggest challenges when making layered chia pudding. Follow these tips to ensure success every time:

• Do Not Skip the Whisking Steps: As detailed in Step 2, the initial 60-second whisking and the subsequent 30-second whisking after a 5-minute rest are non-negotiable. This prevents the “chia sediment” problem, where all the seeds clump at the bottom and the top layer remains liquid.
• The Best Milk Choice: For maximum creaminess, always opt for full-fat, canned coconut milk (not the cartoned beverage). The high-fat content provides a richer mouthfeel and allows the chia seeds to swell into a thicker, more satisfying pudding.
• Adjusting Consistency: If your pudding seems too thick after the initial chill (due to very potent chia seeds or using less liquid), stir in a splash of coconut milk right before serving until you reach your desired texture. If it’s too thin, unfortunately, you cannot fix it quickly, but next time reduce the liquid by 1/4 cup.
• Using Frozen Mangoes: If you rely on frozen mangoes, ensure they are fully thawed before blending. Blending frozen fruit introduces air and ice crystals, which can result in a foamy, less dense puree layer that may separate upon chilling.

Creative Variations for Dietary Needs and Flavor Changes

This recipe is incredibly forgiving and can be adapted to suit almost any palate or dietary requirement:

Fruit and Flavor Alternatives:

• Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding: Substitute half the mango puree with fresh or frozen pineapple. The slight acidity of the pineapple adds a delightful zest.
• Strawberry Kiwi Layer: For a completely different look, replace the mango puree with a smooth strawberry puree, and garnish with sliced kiwi.
• Adding Spice: Stir a pinch of cardamom, a tiny dash of grated ginger, or a quarter teaspoon of turmeric into the mango puree for a warmer, spicier dimension that complements the tropical flavors beautifully.

Dietary and Ingredient Swaps:

• Lower Fat Version: Use almond milk, soy milk, or low-fat oat milk instead of full-fat coconut milk. Be aware the final texture will be softer and less rich.
• Keto/Low-Carb Version: Replace the maple syrup/agave nectar with a liquid keto sweetener like liquid stevia or monk fruit. Since mango is high in natural sugars, use less mango puree per serving, or substitute the mango layer with an avocado-lime puree for a greener, lower-sugar base.
• Protein Boost: Whisk 1 scoop of unflavored or vanilla-flavored plant-based protein powder into the coconut milk mixture before adding the chia seeds. This turns the pudding into an excellent recovery meal, similar to the benefits found in a Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffin.
• Nut-Free Option: This recipe is naturally nut-free (assuming you avoid almond milk), making it perfect for those with allergies. Ensure your coconut milk is processed in a dedicated nut-free facility if sensitivity is severe.

Serving Variations Beyond the Jar:

While jars are traditional, you can also serve this pudding:

• As a Parfait: Layer the components (mango, chia, mango, chia) multiple times for a taller, multi-striped look.
• As a Smoothie Bowl Base: Use the chia pudding as the base layer, and top with a thick smoothie, granola, and fresh fruit.
• As an Edible Centerpiece: Combine the Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding with a simple Rainbow Fruit Salad for a dazzling brunch spread.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

One of the most appealing features of the Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is its phenomenal nutritional profile. This isn’t just a tasty indulgence; it’s a functional food that supports energy, digestion, and overall wellness. By utilizing whole, minimally processed ingredients like chia seeds, real mango, and coconut milk, we maximize the benefits in every spoonful.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

Note: These are estimates based on standard full-fat canned coconut milk and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup added to the puree. Exact values depend on specific ingredient brands and amounts used.

The Power of Chia Seeds: Fiber and Omega-3s

Chia seeds are true superfoods, offering an incredible density of nutrients in a tiny package. The high fiber content around 5 grams per tablespoon is particularly noteworthy. This fiber is mostly insoluble, meaning it absorbs water, promoting regularity and helping to prevent digestive issues. Fiber is also key for maintaining stable energy levels by slowing the absorption of sugars.

Furthermore, chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of Omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. They are critical for cardiovascular health, reducing chronic inflammation, and supporting cognitive function. By consuming 1/2 cup of chia seeds across four servings, you are ensuring a substantial daily intake of these vital fats.

Mango: The Vitamin C and A Booster

Mangoes provide the glorious sweetness and color, but they are equally beneficial nutritionally. Mangoes are exceptionally rich in:

• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant essential for immune defense and collagen production, helping keep skin healthy and radiant.
• Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Crucial for vision and cellular growth. The high concentration in mango gives the fruit its deep golden hue.
• Antioxidants: Mangoes contain compounds like mangiferin, which studies suggest may offer anti-inflammatory properties and support heart health.

The mango layer transforms this recipe from a plain protein snack into a vitamin-rich, immune-supporting meal.

Coconut Milk: Healthy Fats for Satiety

While often feared for its high fat content, full-fat coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), primarily lauric acid. MCTs are metabolized differently than other fats; they are rapidly converted into energy by the liver, making them an excellent fuel source. The fat in the coconut milk is responsible for the incredible satiety this pudding offers. It keeps you feeling full and satisfied for hours, reducing the temptation to snack on unhealthy processed foods later in the day.

In summary, choosing Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is an excellent decision if you value healthy, delicious, and easy-to-prepare meals that nourish your body from the inside out. It’s the perfect synergy of fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.

FAQs About Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding and Preparation

We’ve gathered the most common questions about making and customizing Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding. These answers will help troubleshoot issues and ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Tropical Superfood Pudding

The Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is a true culinary triumph, offering a perfect marriage of convenience, health, and irresistible tropical flavor. We’ve covered everything from the selection of the creamiest coconut milk to the necessity of vigorous whisking, ensuring that your final product is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with those perfectly defined layers of vibrant mango and speckled coconut cream.

This recipe provides a simple yet profound way to incorporate nutrient-dense superfoods into your diet, transforming breakfast or dessert into an opportunity for wellness. Loaded with fiber, healthy Omega-3 fats, and essential vitamins from the fresh mango, this pudding supports everything from gut health to sustained energy throughout the morning. It’s the ultimate guilt-free treat that caters to vegan and gluten-free lifestyles without sacrificing one ounce of flavor or indulgence.

Remember that the key to mastering this dish is patience during the chilling process; those 4+ hours are essential for the chia seeds to fully hydrate and deliver that luxurious, pudding-like consistency. Once you taste the rich, creamy texture combined with the burst of tropical sweetness, you’ll understand why this Mango Coconut Chia Seed Pudding is destined to become a staple. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or seeking a delightful finish to your evening, this no-bake wonder delivers every time.

We encourage you to try this recipe tonight! Prepare a batch, let the fridge do the work, and wake up to a taste of paradise. If you loved this easy, healthy dessert, be sure to explore more quick and delightful recipes in our archives, like our guide to essential dessert recipes. Don’t forget to share your creation and tag us on social media we love seeing your tropical creations!

MANGO COCONUT CHIA SEED PUDDING

A vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make layered dessert or breakfast featuring creamy, nutrient-dense coconut chia seeds topped with a sweet, tropical mango puree.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Healthy, Tropical

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

FOR THE MANGO PUREE LAYER

• 2 cups fresh or frozen mango chunks (thawed)
• 2 tablespoons water or coconut milk (if needed for blending)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)

FOR THE CHIA SEED BASE

• 1/2 cup white or black chia seeds
• 2 cups full-fat coconut milk (canned) (stirred well) or unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch sea salt

FOR GARNISH AND TOPPINGS (Optional)

• 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes or shredded coconut
• Extra diced fresh mango
• Fresh mint leaves

Equipment

• High-Speed Blender
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Four Serving Jars or Glasses

Method

 

STEP 1: PREPARE THE MANGO PUREE

1. Place the 2 cups of mango chunks, 2 tablespoons of water or coconut milk (if using), and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup (if desired) into a high-speed blender or food processor.
2. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lingering chunks remaining.
3. Divide the mango puree evenly into four separate serving glasses or jars, pouring approximately half a cup of the puree into the bottom of each container to create the first layer.

STEP 2: MIX THE CHIA SEED BASE

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of chia seeds, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the pinch of sea salt.
2. Whisk the ingredients vigorously for approximately 60 seconds to fully incorporate the chia seeds and prevent clumping. Ensure you scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
3. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes at room temperature, then whisk again for another 30 seconds. This secondary whisking ensures the seeds are evenly distributed before chilling.

STEP 3: ASSEMBLE AND CHILL THE PUDDING

1. Carefully pour the chia seed mixture over the top of the mango puree layer in each glass. Pour slowly to maintain distinct layers.
2. Cover the tops of the glasses with plastic wrap or lids.
3. Refrigerate the puddings for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the chia seeds to fully hydrate and set into a thick, creamy consistency.

STEP 4: SERVE AND GARNISH

1. Once the pudding has set completely, remove it from the refrigerator.
2. Top each serving with extra diced mango chunks, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, and a fresh mint leaf, if desired.

Notes

Chill Time is essential for this recipe; ensure the pudding has at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to set properly. This recipe is excellent for meal prepping and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.