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Coconut Mango Chia Pudding Cups: A Tropical Delight

If you’re looking for a healthy yet indulgent treat, look no further than Coconut Mango Chia Pudding Cups. These delightful little desserts are not only refreshing and delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a guilt-free dessert, they bring the taste of the tropics right to your kitchen.

What is Chia Pudding?

Chia pudding is made from chia seeds, which are tiny, nutrient-dense seeds from the Salvia hispanica plant. When mixed with a liquid, these seeds absorb the moisture and swell, creating a gel-like consistency. Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, and various essential minerals. Combined with the right ingredients, they can transform into a creamy, satisfying dish that feels much more indulgent than it really is.

Ingredients

For this Coconut Mango Chia Pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Chia Pudding:

  • 1 cup coconut milk (you can use full-fat or light, depending on your preference)
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

• For the Mango Layer:

  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional; adjust based on the sweetness of the mango)
  • A squeeze of lime juice (to enhance the flavour)
• For Toppings:
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Extra diced mango or other tropical fruits

Method

1. Prepare the Chia Pudding:

   • In a bowl or jar, combine the coconut milk, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything together until well combined.
   • Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you prefer. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and expand, forming a thick pudding.

2. Make the Mango Layer:

   • While the chia pudding is setting, prepare the mango layer. Blend the diced mango in a food processor or blender until smooth. If desired, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness and a splash of lime juice to enhance the flavour.
   • Transfer the mango puree to a bowl and set aside.

3. Assemble the Cups:

   • Once the chia pudding has set, stir it to ensure an even consistency. Layer the chia pudding and mango puree in serving cups. You can create as many layers as you like, but for an attractive presentation, aim for two or three distinct layers.
4. Add Toppings:
   • Finish off your Coconut Mango Chia Pudding Cups with toasted coconut flakes, fresh mint leaves, and additional diced mango. These toppings not only add texture but also a burst of flavour that complements the creamy pudding.

Enjoy!

These Coconut Mango Chia Pudding Cups are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them perfect for entertaining or simply for treating yourself. The combination of creamy coconut, sweet mango, and the slight crunch of chia seeds is utterly satisfying.

Moreover, they can be made ahead of time, simply storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy them. Not only do they offer a taste of the tropics, but they also provide a nutritious option that will leave you feeling energised and nourished.

Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a dessert, or as a delightful snack, Coconut Mango Chia Pudding Cups are sure to please both the eyes and the palate. Treat yourself to this tropical delight—you deserve it!