Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coconut milk; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Granola or toasted coconut flakes (optional) for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Strawberry Coconut Chia Parfaits for a refreshing breakfast or dessert. The combination of creamy coconut milk and vibrant strawberries creates a colorful layered treat that's not just visually stunning but also incredibly nutritious. Chia seeds add a delightful texture while packing a punch of omega-3 fatty acids. Whether I'm serving it at a brunch with friends or enjoying it alone, this parfait has quickly become a favorite in my home. Plus, it's customizable, so you can swap in your favorite fruits or toppings.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:28:21.771Z

When I first experimented with chia seed puddings, I didn’t realize how much I would enjoy their unique texture. I mixed them with coconut milk and left them overnight, only to find the chia seeds transformed into these wonderfully gelatinous gems. It was the perfect base to layer with fresh strawberries, and every bite was a burst of flavor!

Each layer of my parfaits offers a delightful contrast of textures—from the creaminess of the coconut to the juicy sweetness of the strawberries. To ensure the best results, I always taste my coconut milk first, as the flavor can vary between brands. This simple step guarantees that my parfaits are always as delicious as I envision them!

        Why You'll Love These Parfaits
        Fresh strawberries provide a burst of berry goodness with each bite.
Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture that’s deliciously tropical.
Chia seeds are packed with nutrients, making this parfait a healthy treat.

      

The Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds serve as the star of the show in this parfait, offering a unique texture and a wealth of nutritional benefits. They absorb liquid and expand, creating a delightful gel-like consistency that forms the base of the chia layer. This not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to the fullness of the parfait. Make sure to stir the mixture after letting it sit; this prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution of seeds throughout the coconut milk.

If you're concerned about the slightly gelatinous texture of chia, blend the mixture briefly in a blender to create a smoother consistency. Additionally, chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making this parfait a powerhouse of nutrients. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or oat milk, but be aware that this will alter the flavor profile and texture slightly.

Strawberry Layer Insights

The maceration of strawberries is a key technique that elevates this parfait. By combining sliced strawberries with sugar (if desired) and lemon juice, you allow the berries to release their natural juices, creating a sweet syrup that enhances their flavor. It’s essential to let them sit for a minimum of 10 minutes; this resting time is crucial for achieving the right balance of sweetness and acidity. If you're using strawberries that are not perfectly ripe, the sugar will help to draw out their sweetness, making them more palatable.

Feel free to mix in other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for an added burst of flavor and color. If you want to reduce the sugar content, consider substituting honey or agave syrup, or simply omit the sugar altogether, as ripe strawberries can be naturally sweet enough on their own. The addition of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps to maintain the bright color of the strawberries.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving these parfaits in clear glasses not only showcases the beautiful layers but also adds an element of elegance, making them perfect for brunches or celebrations. For added crunch, top each parfait with a sprinkle of granola or toasted coconut flakes right before serving. If using store-bought granola, opt for one that is lightly sweetened to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the chia and strawberries.

These parfaits can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for busy mornings or meal prep. Just keep in mind that the chia layer can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, while the strawberry layer is best used within 2-3 days to maintain freshness. If you're looking to enjoy a different fruit flavor, seasonal fruits like mango or peaches can be swapped in seamlessly, allowing for endless variations while keeping the essential structure of the parfait intact.

Ingredients

For the Chia Layer

1 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Serving

Granola or toasted coconut flakes (optional) for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Chia Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine and let it sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer

In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar (if using), and lemon juice. Mix gently and let the strawberries sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate, allowing their natural juices to develop.

Assemble the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the chia mixture and the macerated strawberries alternately. Start with a layer of chia, followed by a layer of strawberries, and repeat until the glasses are filled. Optionally, top with granola or toasted coconut flakes for added crunch.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chia mixture. You can also substitute other fruits like mango or banana in the layers for a different taste profile.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re looking to serve a larger crowd, scaling this recipe is simple. The chia layer can easily be multiplied by the number of servings you need, just ensure you have a large enough bowl to mix it. A larger batch may require a slightly longer setting time, so checking the consistency is important—give it a good stir after about 5-10 minutes and adjust the chill time if needed to ensure it thickens properly.

For the strawberry layer, you can also double or triple the ingredients depending on your serving needs. When scaling, make sure to maintain the key ratios, especially with the acid from the lemon juice, which helps keep the strawberries vibrant and flavors balanced. Be mindful that larger quantities might not macerate as uniformly, so allow a bit more time for the flavors to meld.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the chia seeds clump together despite stirring, that could indicate that they were not whisked enough or left to sit for too long in one go without a stir. To fix this, simply give the mixture another vigorous stir after letting it rest, or blend it briefly for a smoother solution. It’s also important to make sure you’re using the right ratio of chia seeds to liquid, sticking closely to the measurements provided to prevent imbalance.

Sometimes, strawberries can become overly soft if left too long to macerate. To avoid this, only let them sit for the recommended time and check frequently. If you find your strawberries too mushy, consider mashing them lightly before layering to maintain some textural contrast. For a more vibrant presentation, layer differing fruit colors or textures to keep the parfait visually appealing and enjoyable to eat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these parfaits in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chia layer the night before and layer it with strawberries right before serving for the best texture.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to honey?

Yes! Maple syrup or agave syrup works perfectly as a vegan substitute for honey.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess water.

→ How long can I store the parfaits?

These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.