Strawberry Banana Chia Cups

Name: Strawberry Banana Chia Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice); 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Collection

I absolutely love making these Strawberry Banana Chia Cups for a quick and nutritious snack. The combination of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries creates a delightful flavor that’s both sweet and refreshing. Chia seeds add a wonderful texture and a healthy boost of omega-3s. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for breakfast or a midday treat. Plus, they’re easily customizable based on what berries are in season or what I have on hand!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:45:36.353Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Banana Chia Cups, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create a delicious and nutritious snack. I started by soaking chia seeds overnight to get that perfect gel-like consistency, which makes a big difference in the final texture. During the testing phase, I discovered that adding a drizzle of honey really enhances the overall flavor.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is its versatility! I can easily switch up the fruits or even add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a hit with my friends and family, and I love knowing it’s packed with nutrients!

        Why You Will Love These Cups
        Refreshing and fruity flavor with a creamy texture
Packed with fiber and protein, perfect for a healthy snack
Customize with your favorite fruits for endless variations

      

Chia Seeds: The Superfood Element

Chia seeds play a crucial role in this recipe, not only providing a satisfying texture but also boosting the nutritional profile significantly. When mixed with liquid, chia seeds swell and create a gel-like consistency, which adds creaminess without any dairy. This gel forms in just 5-10 minutes, so you can prepare your chia mixture while multitasking, making it a great time-saver. If you're gluten-free or looking to add more plant-based components, these seeds are your best friend.

Besides the texture, chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, which can contribute to satiety. This means that the Strawberry Banana Chia Cups can keep you feeling full longer, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack. If you're running short on chia seeds, you could substitute with flaxseeds, but keep in mind that they won't provide the same texture.

Picking the Perfect Strawberries

When selecting strawberries, aim for ones that are bright red and plump, as these will provide the sweetest flavor. Look for berries that are firm to the touch and have a fresh, fragrant aroma. Avoid any that show signs of mold or have soft spots, as this indicates overripeness. For a twist, you can experiment with seasonal berries like blueberries or raspberries, which compliment the banana beautifully and offer their own unique flavors.

If you find fresh strawberries unavailable, frozen strawberries can be a convenient alternative. Just let them thaw and drain any excess liquid before chopping to avoid overly soggy cups. Consider that using frozen fruit may slightly alter the texture, as they won’t have the crunch of fresh berries, but they will still offer plenty of flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

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

This is a simple list, but feel free to get creative!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Strawberry Banana Chia Cups:

Prepare Chia Mixture

In a bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens.

Mix in Banana

Once the chia mixture has thickened, gently fold in the mashed banana. Mix until the banana is well incorporated.

Assemble Cups

Layer the chia mixture and chopped strawberries in small cups or jars. Start with chia at the bottom and then a layer of strawberries; repeat until the cup is full.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes for a chilled treat. Enjoy your healthy Strawberry Banana Chia Cups!

These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making them perfect for meal prep!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, top with granola or nuts before serving. You can also switch up the fruit based on your personal preferences or what's in season.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Banana Chia Cups can be easily prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week. After assembling the cups, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to use airtight containers to prevent them from absorbing any other odors in the fridge. This is particularly helpful for busy mornings when you need a nutritious meal on the go.

If you want to extend their shelf life further, consider making the chia mixture and storing it separately from the strawberries. This way, you can mix just the amount you need each day and keep everything fresh. You can even prepare the banana by mashing it and storing it with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Serving Suggestions

These cups can be enjoyed alone, but feel free to elevate your presentation and taste by adding toppings. A sprinkle of granola provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy chia and soft fruit. Alternatively, drizzle some nut butter or a dollop of coconut yogurt on top for added richness and flavor, enhancing the nutritional benefits to make it even more filling.

For special occasions, consider layering the cups in larger serving dishes or parfait glasses for a visually appealing centerpiece. It’s an excellent way to serve dessert at brunch gatherings, and you can customize the layers with additional fruits or nuts, appealing to a variety of tastes while keeping the healthy aspect.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! You can substitute berries with your favorite fruits such as mango, peaches, or kiwi.

→ How long can I store these cups?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, but are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Is it necessary to soak the chia seeds?

Soaking the chia seeds helps them absorb liquid and expand, creating a pudding-like texture which is essential for this recipe.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Just ensure you use a plant-based milk and skip the honey, or use a vegan sweetener instead.