Strawberry Banana Chia Cups

Name: Strawberry Banana Chia Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice); 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely love making Strawberry Banana Chia Cups for breakfast or a healthy snack! These little cups are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition. The combination of creamy banana, refreshing strawberries, and chia seeds creates a delightful texture. In just a few minutes, you can whip these up and let them chill in the refrigerator. Trust me, once you try them, you'll add them to your weekly meal prep routine for sure!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:29:34.769Z

When I first discovered chia seeds, I was amazed by their versatility. I decided to experiment and created these Strawberry Banana Chia Cups. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires no cooking, just a little time for the chia seeds to absorb the liquid. I love the way the flavors meld together, especially after letting them sit overnight. It’s the perfect breakfast to grab on busy mornings.

During my recipe testing, I tried adding different fruits, but found that strawberries and bananas create a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. I recommend mashing some banana into the mixture for extra creaminess. These cups also set beautifully in the fridge, making them a fantastic option for meal prep!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Refreshing and naturally sweet
Easy to prepare in just minutes
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber

      

Chia Seeds: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Chia seeds are a fantastic addition to this recipe, providing a boost of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. When soaked in the almond milk, these tiny seeds expand and create a unique, gelatinous texture that helps to thicken the mixture. This transformation is key to achieving that satisfying cup consistency. Choosing high-quality, fresh chia seeds is important; stored improperly, they can lose their nutritional benefits. Keep an eye out for seeds labeled as organic to ensure maximum freshness.

It's not only the texture that benefits from chia seeds; their health properties also support your overall well-being. One ounce of chia seeds contains about 11 grams of fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. If you're looking to reduce sugar intake, chia seeds can also help balance blood sugar levels thanks to their gel-like formation, which slows the digestion of carbs. Overall, they're a stellar choice for anyone wanting to enhance their breakfast or snack.

Perfecting Your Strawberry Banana Harmony

Using ripe bananas is essential for this recipe as they add natural sweetness and creaminess to the mix. Look for bananas with brown spots; they indicate optimal ripeness and flavor. If you prefer, you can temporarily substitute the mashed banana with unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree for a twist. Each option will bring its unique flavor while maintaining the creamy texture you're aiming for.

Strawberries should be in season for the best flavor, but if you’re making this recipe outside of peak season, consider frozen strawberries. They can offer a sweeter taste when blended into smoothies or mixed in chia cups, just remember to thaw and drain any excess moisture. Likewise, adding a hint of lemon juice to the strawberries will enhance their flavor and keep them vibrant, making your cups visually appealing as well.

Servings, Storage, and Variations

This recipe yields about 4 cups, making it perfect for meal prepping or serving the family. If you want to accommodate different preferences, you can easily double or halve the recipe while maintaining the proportions of ingredients. For serving, these chia cups are delightful in small jars or glasses, topped with extra fruits, granola, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.

Chia cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, store any toppings separately to maintain their texture. You can also freeze them in portion-sized containers. Just defrost overnight in the fridge the day before serving. If you're in the mood for creativity, experiment with other fruits like mango or blueberries, or try adding spices such as cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Strawberry Banana Chia Cups:

Ingredients

1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/4 cup chia seeds
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make something delicious!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Strawberry Banana Chia Cups:

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, chia seeds, mashed banana, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until well combined.

Add Strawberries

Fold in the chopped strawberries, reserving a few for topping later if desired.

Refrigerate

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to expand and thicken the mixture.

Serve

Once set, divide the chia mixture into cups, and top with additional strawberries and banana slices before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Banana Chia Cups!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment by incorporating other fruits like blueberries or mangoes. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your preference.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chia mixture isn't thickening as expected, it could be due to insufficient soaking time or not enough chia seeds. Make sure to let it sit for at least 4 hours or overnight, and adjust the chia seed quantity if needed, aiming for about 1 tablespoon per 1/4 cup of liquid for ideal thickness.

When folding in the strawberries, take care not to over-mix. Gently incorporate them to retain their shape and not break them down too much, which can make the mixture overly watery. If you accidentally end up with too much liquid, a quick fix is to add a touch more chia seeds and allow it to rest for a short while longer.

Alternative Sweeteners

If you want a healthier option, consider substituting honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even stevia, depending on your dietary needs. Each of these alternatives can offer the desired sweetness without significantly altering the flavor profile. Note that some sweeteners, like stevia, may need to be used in different amounts due to varying sweetness levels.

For a richer flavor, try adding a touch of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, directly into the chia mixture. This not only adds sweetness but also enhances the creaminess and richness of the cups. Just be mindful of the added calories if you're tracking your intake.

Creative Serving Ideas

To enhance your serving experience, layer the chia cups in a parfait style with alternating layers of fruit and the chia mixture in a tall glass. This not only looks appealing but also allows everyone to enjoy a variety of flavors with each spoonful.

For a breakfast on-the-go, transfer the chia cup to a Mason jar, top with a lid, and you'll have a nutritious portable meal that can easily fit into your daily routine. This makes it an excellent option for busy mornings while ensuring you don’t compromise on nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Yes! You can substitute almond milk with coconut milk, soy milk, or any milk you prefer.

→ How long do these cups last in the fridge?

These Chia Cups can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Absolutely! Mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder can enhance the nutritional value.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! As long as you use plant-based milk and skip the honey, it remains vegan-friendly.