No-Bake Chia Pudding Bars (Printable Version)

Creamy chia bars with coconut milk and lime zest offer a fresh, tropical snack or dessert option.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Chia Pudding Filling

01 - 400 ml full-fat coconut milk (1 can)
02 - 85 g chia seeds (½ cup)
03 - 60 ml maple syrup or agave nectar (¼ cup)
04 - Zest of 1 large lime
05 - Juice of ½ large lime
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Optional Crust

08 - 100 g almonds or cashews
09 - 45 g shredded unsweetened coconut (½ cup)
10 - 60 g pitted Medjool dates (¼ cup)
11 - 15 ml melted coconut oil (1 tablespoon)
12 - Pinch of salt

→ Topping

13 - Toasted coconut flakes
14 - Extra lime zest

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Combine almonds or cashews, shredded coconut, pitted dates, melted coconut oil, and salt in a food processor. Process until the mixture clumps and holds when pressed. Press firmly into the base of an 20x20 cm pan lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup or agave nectar, lime zest, lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and free of clumps.
03 - Allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then whisk again thoroughly to break up any seed clumps and ensure even distribution.
04 - Pour the chia pudding filling over the prepared crust or directly into the parchment-lined pan if omitting the crust. Spread evenly using a spatula.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight until fully set and firm.
06 - Lift the set pudding slab from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Sprinkle generously with toasted coconut flakes and additional lime zest. Cut into bars or squares with a sharp knife.
07 - Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days to maintain freshness.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For a smoother texture, blend the chia pudding mixture before refrigeration.
02 - Adjust sweetness by varying maple syrup or agave according to taste.
03 - The crust can be customized with other nuts or seeds as preferred.