Mango Sticky Rice Chia Pudding (Toddler-Approved!)

This mango chia seed pudding has become one of our toddler’s favorite batch-prepped snacks! It’s creamy, lightly naturally sweet, and full of nourishing ingredients for growing bodies. And the coconut milk brings that sticky rice essence we know and love! 💛

• Whole milk provides protein, fat, and calcium;

• Coconut milk adds brain-boosting healthy fats and tropical flair;

• Mango brings a dose of vitamin C and fiber; and

• Chia seeds provide a gentle source of plant-based omega-3s that help support brain development. It’s a texture win too! It’s soft and spoonable, with just enough chia to keep things interesting.

We usually make a batch in the evening and enjoy it chilled the next day, but you can also serve it warm and cozy right off the stove. Either way, it’s toddler gold.

This recipe is nut free and vegetarian and is easy to make dairy free, gluten free, and vegan.

Suggested age for this recipe: 12 months and up

See our IG Post for more details on how this came out! :)

Ingredients:

Makes 15 two ounce servings. We're big on batch prepping and freeze individual portions in these space-saving silicone molds!

• 2 cups whole milk

• 2 cups unsweetened full-fat coconut milk

• 2 cups ripe mango (fresh or frozen chunks)

• 8 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of ground ginger (optional; adds warmth without heat)

Instructions:

1. Simmer the base
   In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk, coconut milk, mango, and optional ground ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Mash or blend the mango
   Once the mango is soft, mash it with a fork right in the pot for a textured feel, or blend the mixture until smooth if your little one prefers a uniform pudding.

3. Add vanilla and chia seeds
   Stir in the vanilla, then whisk in the chia seeds thoroughly to prevent clumping.

4. Let it thicken

   • For a warm option, let it sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature before serving.

   • For a chilled option, transfer to the fridge to thicken for at least 1 hour or leave overnight for a ready-to-go snack.

Tips ⬇️

• Storage:
  Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  Freeze in silicone baby food molds for up to 1 month (thaw in fridge and stir before serving).

• Texture Adjustments:
  Blend for smoothness or leave it slightly chunky for texture exploration.

• Flavor Variations:

  • Add a splash of lime juice if citrus is tolerated.

  • Top with unsweetened coconut flakes for extra crunch.

  • Blend in a few slices of banana if your mango needs more sweetness.