“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature — the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.” — Rachel Carson, Silent Spring
Coconut Vanilla Chia Pudding with Berry Compote
Full fat coconut milk makes for the most luscious and creamy vegan chia pudding! It pairs really well with my easy berry compote and a sprinkle of granola for a delicious breakfast or dessert.
It’s been YEARS since I’ve made chia pudding. I ate it off and on for a while, especially in the early days of transitioning to plant-based. But I always found it slightly disappointing and would have to doctor it up with a bunch of toppings to make it worthwhile. A couple of weeks ago, in an unprecedented turn of events, I had a strong craving for it. I decided to give it another chance and mess around with the recipe.
The results were so delicious that I ended up immediately making another batch and then figured it was something to be shared here. The secret to this recipe? Full fat coconut milk. FULL FAT. You know, the stuff out of the can? Don’t try to use the crap from a carton or you will be really disappointed. The other key to this recipe being so lush is the higher ratio of chia seeds to liquid.
So that you guys could see how easy this recipe is and how delightfully creamy the finished product is after only 20 minutes of resting time, I made a video for you! I also decided to throw in the recipe for the berry compote I’ve been enjoying it with. These two things together are pretty delightful and make for a lovely breakfast or snack, especially with a hefty sprinkle of toasty granola. If you decide to make it let me know what you think!
PrintCoconut Vanilla Chia Pudding with Berry Compote
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Full fat coconut milk makes for the most luscious and creamy vegan chia pudding! It pairs really well with my easy berry compote and a sprinkle of granola for a delicious breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
for the chia pudding:
- 1 cup full fat coconut milk (from the can)
- 3/4 cup cashew milk or almond milk (I’m partial to cashew!)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
for the berry compote:
- 1 pint blueberries
- 1 pint strawberries, diced
- the juice of 1 orange, or alternately, 1 small lemon
- maple syrup or cane sugar to taste (I used 2 tbsp of maple syrup for mine)
Instructions
To make the chia pudding, add the milks to a bowl along with the syrup and vanilla. Mix well, then add the chia seeds and mix again to distribute them evenly within the milk mixture. Let the pudding sit for at least 20 minutes to thicken.
The chia pudding is ready after only 20 minutes but if you want it extra thick and creamy, chill it in the fridge at least 6 hours or overnight! Top it however you like or enjoy it plain. Makes about 4 servings.
For the berry compote, add everything to a large skillet/sauce pan set over medium heat. As the mixture heats up the fruits will start to release their juices. Cook over medium, stirring regularly, until the juices start to thicken and turn syrupy. The compote is ready when you can drag your spoon against the bottom of the pan and the space doesn’t immediately fill back in with liquid. Cool before using. Makes about 1 pint/2 cups. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For the berry compote, feel free to use any combination of berries you like, just make sure they equal 4 cups (a quart) total! You can use fresh or frozen berries depending on what season you find yourself in.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes (pudding)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (compote)