Chilled Custard Apple & Chia Cream
This delightful Chilled Custard Apple & Chia Cream is a naturally sweet, creamy, and fiber-rich dessert or snack, perfect for a healthy indulgence that can be made ahead.
For 2 servings
Prepare Custard Apple: Carefully peel the custard apple, remove all black seeds, and measure out 1 cup of the pulp. Ensure the pulp is free of any seeds for a smooth consistency.
Combine Ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine the prepared custard apple pulp, unsweetened coconut cream, chia seeds, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the blended mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, add an additional tablespoon of maple syrup and blend again briefly to combine.
Pour into Serving Dishes: Divide the blended cream evenly into two small ramekins, glasses, or dessert bowls.
Chill and Set: Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and create a thick, pudding-like consistency.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, you can optionally garnish with fresh fruit (like berries or extra custard apple pieces), a sprinkle of chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a dusting of ground cardamom. Serve cold.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Ripe Custard Apples: For the best flavor and natural sweetness, ensure your custard apples are very ripe. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- 2Adjust Consistency: If the pudding seems too thick after chilling, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk) to reach your desired consistency.
- 3Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for meal prepping! Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight for a quick and healthy breakfast or dessert.
- 4Flavor Boosters: Experiment with adding a small amount of ginger powder, cinnamon, or a tiny bit of lime zest for an extra layer of flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Variation
Substitute half of the custard apple pulp with ripe mango or banana for a different fruity twist. Ensure the fruit is very ripe for natural sweetness.
Nutty Crunch VariationNutty Crunch Variation
Fold in 2 tablespoons of chopped pistachios, almonds, or walnuts after blending for added texture and healthy fats. You can also sprinkle them on top as a garnish.
Chocolate Swirl VariationChocolate Swirl Variation
Melt 1 tablespoon of dark chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil, then swirl it into the pudding just before chilling for a decadent chocolate-fruit combination.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Both custard apple and chia seeds are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Healthy Fats
Coconut cream provides beneficial medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), while chia seeds offer omega-3 fatty acids, both contributing to heart health and satiety.
Vitamins and Antioxidants
Custard apple is a good source of Vitamin C, B vitamins, and antioxidants, which support immune function and protect the body from oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen custard apple pulp. Make sure to thaw it completely before blending to ensure a smooth consistency.
