Strawberry Banana Chia Cups

Name: Strawberry Banana Chia Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); Fresh strawberries and banana slices for topping

Highlighted under: Natural Ideas

I recently discovered the delightful combination of strawberries and bananas, and these Strawberry Banana Chia Cups have quickly become a favorite in our household. They're not only visually appealing with their vibrant colors, but they're also packed with nutrients and perfect for a quick breakfast or a delicious snack. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. Plus, the chia seeds give these cups a unique, satisfying texture that makes you want to savor every bite. I can't wait to share this with you!

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:25:34.993Z

When I first made these Strawberry Banana Chia Cups, I was amazed at how simple and delicious they turned out. I figured that blending fresh strawberries with bananas would create a vibrant base, but adding chia seeds turned out to be the game-changer. Not only do they add nutritional benefits, but they also create that delightful pudding-like texture.

After some experimenting, I discovered that letting the chia mixture sit for at least two hours really helps the seeds absorb the liquid properly. If you’re in a hurry, you can even prep these the night before and enjoy them in the morning. The result is a refreshing treat that’s both wholesome and satisfying!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing and nutritious bite with each layer
Vibrant colors that brighten up your table
Easy to customize with your favorite fruits

The Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star ingredient of these Strawberry Banana Chia Cups, providing not only a unique texture but also numerous health benefits. When soaked in liquid, chia seeds expand and develop a gel-like consistency that contributes to the creamy texture of the cups. Their high fiber content can help you feel full and satisfied, making these cups an excellent choice for breakfast or a snack.

These tiny seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential minerals. By including chia seeds in this recipe, you’re not only enhancing the nutritional value but also incorporating a superfood that adds a delightful crunch. If you're looking to boost protein intake, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the chia mixture for an extra nutrient punch.

Fruit Variations and Customization

While strawberries and bananas pair exceptionally well in this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits! Blueberries, mangoes, or even peaches could create delicious alternatives. Just ensure that you keep the fruit-to-chia seed ratio balanced to maintain the creamy texture. Incorporating seasonal fruits can elevate the freshness and flavor—think of using ripe peaches in the summer or vibrant pomegranates in the winter.

If you prefer less sweetness, opt for tart fruits such as raspberries or blackberries. Their natural acidity can balance the creaminess of the chia mixture. You could also swap out almond milk for coconut milk, which not only alters the flavor profile to a tropical note but also adds richness. I find that layering different types of fruits in the cups not only looks stunning but also brings a variety of flavors to each bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Fresh strawberries and banana slices for topping

Make sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Banana Chia Cups:

Blend the Fruit

In a blender, combine the chopped strawberries and mashed banana. Blend until smooth, then pour into a bowl.

Add Chia Seeds

Stir in the chia seeds and almond milk into the fruit mixture. If you’re adding honey or maple syrup, mix it in now.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until the mixture thickens.

Serve

Once thickened, layer the chia mixture in cups and top with fresh fruit slices before serving.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious Strawberry Banana Chia Cups!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Banana Chia Cups are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chia mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This way, the flavors meld together beautifully, and you can easily assemble the cups the next morning. Just give the mixture a good stir before layering to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.

For optimal freshness, I recommend preparing the fruit toppings right before serving. This way, the bananas won't brown too much, and the strawberries will remain vibrant. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, you can lightly toss banana slices in lemon juice to help preserve their color.

Serving Suggestions

These chia cups are versatile and can be served as a nutritious breakfast, protein-packed snack, or even a dessert. For added flair, consider drizzling some dark chocolate sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a rich and indulgent touch to the otherwise healthy treat.

To make it more filling, pair the cups with a handful of nuts or seeds on the side, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy texture. For entertaining, you could create a chia cup bar, setting out a variety of fruits, nuts, and toppings, so guests can customize their own delicious combinations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well too; just make sure to thaw them before blending.

→ How long do these cups last in the fridge?

They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, mango, or peaches for variety.

→ Are chia seeds healthy?

Absolutely! Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein.