Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Parfaits
Layered chia pudding with ripe banana puree and shredded coconut, offering a healthy and refreshing no-bake dessert. This american-inspired desserts (vegan, gluten-free) ready in about 10 minutes layers chia seeds, unsweetened coconut milk, maple syrup into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup fresh banana slices
- 2 tbsp toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup chia seeds, 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk, 2 tbsp maple syrup, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 2: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumps. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until pudding thickens.
- Step 3: In a separate small bowl, mash 1 medium ripe banana until smooth.
- Step 4: To assemble parfaits, spoon a layer of chia pudding into 4 serving glasses, add a layer of mashed banana, then sprinkle 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut evenly.
- Step 5: Repeat layers once more finishing with fresh banana slices (1/2 cup) and 2 tbsp toasted coconut flakes on top.
- Step 6: Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Parfaits take to make?
Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Parfaits?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Parfaits?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Parfaits for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Parfaits vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
