This Berry Chia Pudding uses just 6 ingredients to make a creamy, naturally sweet breakfast, snack, or dessert. Coconut milk, coconut cream, chia seeds, and vanilla extract form a decadent base layered with a berry compote!
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup chia seeds, 3½ cups coconut milk, ¼ cup coconut cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla, ¼ cup maple syrup, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir vigorously for 30 seconds to prevent clumping. The canned coconut cream often has a chunky consistency. Whisk it thoroughly to break up all lumps. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. After 30 minutes, remove from the fridge and stir again to redistribute any seeds that have settled to the bottom. This ensures even hydration and consistent texture throughout.
The pudding is ready when it reaches a thick, spoonable consistency similar to tapioca pudding. The chia seeds will have expanded to about 10 times their original size. To make the berry compote, add 2 cups mixed berries, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 60-90 seconds until the berries are hot and beginning to break down. Use a fork to mash the berries into a chunky jam-like consistency. The natural pectin will thicken the mixture as it cools.
Assemble your berry chia pudding. Spoon a layer of coconut chia pudding into individual serving jars or bowls, followed by a layer of berry compote. Continue alternating layers until each container is full, ending with berry compote on top. Top with fresh berries, toasted coconut flakes, or granola.
Notes
Texture Sensitive Option: If you're sensitive to texture, blend the chia seeds into a powder before mixing. This creates a smoother pudding without the chia consistency.
20 Minute Hack: For faster results, heat your coconut milk & cream to 110°F liquid (warm to the touch, not hot) before adding the chia seeds. This achieves the same texture in 20 minutes that cold-soaking does in an hour. Don't exceed 120°F or you'll damage the omega-3 fatty acids.