Creamy Coconut Mango Chia Pudding Cups (No-Bake)

I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly hot summer when turning on the oven felt like torture. My sweet tooth was demanding attention, but I needed something that wouldn’t heat up the kitchen or weigh me down. These little pudding cups became my salvation – they taste indulgent but are secretly packed with good-for-you ingredients. Now I make them year-round because they remind me of tropical vacations, even when it’s snowing outside.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 ripe mango, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons coconut flakes, toasted
• 2 tablespoons chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the base: In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until well combined and maple syrup is fully dissolved.
2. Add chia seeds: Gradually whisk in chia seeds, making sure to break up any clumps as you go. Continue whisking for 2 minutes to prevent settling.
3. First rest: Let mixture sit for 10 minutes at room temperature, then whisk again vigorously to redistribute the seeds.
4. Chill overnight: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thick and pudding-like.
5. Prep the mango: Before serving, dice the mango into small cubes. Toast coconut flakes in a dry skillet until golden, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble and serve: Spoon pudding into glasses, top with mango, toasted coconut, macadamia nuts, and fresh mint.

Tips

• Prevent clumping: Whisk the mixture several times during the first hour to ensure chia seeds don’t settle and clump together.
• Consistency check: If pudding seems too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of coconut milk. Too thin? Add more chia seeds and chill longer.
• Make ahead friendly: These keep for 3-4 days in the fridge and actually get better as flavors meld together.
• Layered look: Create pretty parfait layers by alternating pudding with mango pieces in clear glasses.