Strawberry Coconut Yogurt Chia Cups

Name: Strawberry Coconut Yogurt Chia Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups coconut milk; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped; 2 cups coconut yogurt; Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Smart Ideas

I absolutely love making these Strawberry Coconut Yogurt Chia Cups for breakfast or a sweet snack. They are incredibly easy to whip up and packed with flavor. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy coconut yogurt creates a delightful harmony that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of chia seeds while indulging in a tasty treat. Plus, you can prepare these cups the night before for a quick grab-and-go option that feels like a special dessert!

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:45:34.807Z

When I first experimented with chia seeds, I was amazed by how versatile they are. These Strawberry Coconut Yogurt Chia Cups are the perfect example. I love how the chia seeds expand and absorb liquid, creating a delightful texture. It took me a couple of tries to find the right ratio of yogurt to chia seeds, but once I nailed it, the result was pure bliss.

Strawberries are one of my all-time favorite fruits, and their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut yogurt. A little hint: I let the chia mixture sit overnight to thicken; it makes the cups extra creamy and gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully!

        What You Will Love About This Recipe
        Refreshing combination of strawberries and coconut yogurt
Nutritious chia seeds packed with omega-3s
Perfectly portable for a healthy snack on the go

      

Chia Seeds: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. When soaked, these tiny seeds absorb liquid and expand to create a delightful gel-like texture, which makes them an excellent base for these yogurt cups. The hydration process aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. It's important to allow them enough time to fully gel; at least 30 minutes is necessary, but overnight soaking is best for optimal texture and absorption.

If you're new to working with chia seeds, you'll find they can clump together during the initial mixing process. To prevent this, whisk vigorously or stir continuously after adding them to the liquid for the first few minutes. By ensuring they’re well incorporated, you’ll achieve a smooth mixture that’s pleasing to the palate.

Coconut Yogurt: A Creamy Delight

Coconut yogurt adds a rich, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries. It’s a fantastic dairy-free alternative that maintains a similar texture to traditional yogurt, making it ideal for layering in these cups. When selecting coconut yogurt, look for brands that contain live active cultures for added probiotics that benefit gut health.

Feel free to experiment with different flavored coconut yogurts as well. Vanilla or strawberry varieties can enhance the overall taste profile, bringing even more depth to your creation. If you're looking to reduce sweetness, using plain coconut yogurt allows you to control the sugar level while still enjoying the creamy texture.

Serving and Storing Your Chia Cups

These Strawberry Coconut Yogurt Chia Cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an ideal make-ahead breakfast or snack option. To maintain the freshness of the strawberries, it’s best to add them on the day of serving. Place a layer of plastic wrap over the cups if you’re not consuming them right away to maintain their flavor and prevent any moisture from altering the textures.

For serving, consider garnishing with more than just mint leaves. You can sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or add a drizzle of honey on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. These cups are versatile and can be transformed into a dessert by adding granola or dark chocolate shavings for those cravings when you need something sweet.

Ingredients

For the Chia Mixture

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups coconut milk
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cups

2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
2 cups coconut yogurt
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Mix all the ingredients well and let the chia mixture sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Chia Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, coconut milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to avoid clumping.

Let it Hydrate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and expand.

Assemble the Cups

In serving cups, layer the chia mixture, followed by a layer of coconut yogurt, and then top with the chopped strawberries.

Garnish and Serve

Finish each cup with a few fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color. Enjoy!

You can customize these cups by adding other fruits or granola for extra crunch!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fruits and yogurt flavors to make these cups your own. For a tropical twist, try using mango or pineapple instead of strawberries.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for sugar alternatives in this recipe, consider using agave nectar or coconut sugar instead of honey or maple syrup. These substitutes will impart a unique flavor while keeping the cups sweet. Similarly, if coconut yogurt isn’t available, regular yogurt or any plant-based yogurt can work as an alternative, but ensure it complements the overall flavor of the cups.

For a nut-free variant, switch coconut milk with almond milk or oat milk. These options will maintain a lighter texture, although you may want to slightly adjust the quantities to achieve the desired consistency in your chia mixture.

Troubleshooting Your Chia Cups

If your chia mixture turns out too runny, it might be due to insufficient absorption time or an imbalance in the liquid-to-seed ratio. If this happens, simply stir in a few extra spoonfuls of chia seeds and let it sit for another 15-20 minutes until it thickens to your liking. On the other hand, if the mixture is overly thick, gradually add more coconut milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Another common issue can be the layering of the cups. If they begin to separate in the refrigerator, give them a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients, maintaining the visual appeal and enhancing the flavors again. A well-rested mixture typically holds its layers better, so allow them to chill adequately before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these chia cups in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, they're best when prepared the night before and allowed to sit in the fridge to thicken.

→ What can I use instead of coconut milk?

You can substitute almond milk or any plant-based milk of your choice. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary.

→ How long do these cups last in the fridge?

They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator, making them a great make-ahead option!

→ Are chia seeds nutritious?

Yes! Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making them a fantastic addition to a healthy diet.