Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is a decadent yet healthy dessert that combines rich cacao flavor with the creamy texture of chia seeds. Sweetened with maple syrup and topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream, this pudding is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious option. It’s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients for a delightful, make-ahead dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is indulgent, rich, and creamy, with a deep chocolate flavor that’s balanced perfectly by the sweetness of maple syrup. It’s easy to prepare and requires no baking, making it the perfect quick dessert or snack. The chia seeds provide a healthy boost of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, while the optional toppings—like fresh berries, chocolate shavings, and whipped cream—add a delightful crunch and creaminess. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it will keep in the fridge for up to a few days!

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• 2 tablespoons cacao powder

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free)

• ¼ cup chia seeds

For the Garnishes:

• Raspberries (or other fruit)

• Chocolate shavings

• Coconut whipped cream

• Nuts and seeds (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Mix the Ingredients:

1. In a medium-size bowl, whisk together the cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, and chia seeds until well combined.

Let it Gel:

1. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes without stirring, allowing the chia seeds to begin gelling. After 15 minutes, whisk the mixture again to ensure it’s evenly combined.

Refrigerate:

1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results, so the pudding can thicken.

Serve:

1. After the pudding has set, stir it together, then divide it into small dessert-sized glasses.

2. Top with your favorite garnishes, such as fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, coconut whipped cream, or nuts and seeds.

Tips:

• If the chia seeds aren’t thickening as expected after 10 minutes, you might have old chia seeds. Just grab a new bag for the best results.

• For a fun “frosted” effect on your berries, freeze washed and dried fresh berries in a single layer, then add them to the pudding just before serving. They’ll have a frosty look as they thaw!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Wait Time: 4 hours

• Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• Sweetener Swap: If you prefer a different sweetener, try using honey, agave syrup, or stevia in place of maple syrup.

• Non-chocolate Option: For a vanilla chia seed pudding, simply omit the cacao powder and increase the vanilla extract.

• Nutty Add-ins: Stir in chopped almonds, walnuts, or cashews for added texture and flavor.

• Vegan-Friendly: Use any dairy-free milk of your choice, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a completely plant-based treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: This pudding is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just give it a good stir before serving!

FAQs

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, this pudding is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it the night before and let it set overnight in the fridge.

Can I use sweetened cocoa powder instead of cacao powder?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the amount of maple syrup to account for the sweetness in the cocoa powder.

Can I make this recipe without maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or even stevia, depending on your preference for sweetness.

How do I know if the pudding is set properly?

The pudding will thicken as the chia seeds absorb the liquid. It should have a pudding-like consistency after a few hours of chilling. If it’s still too liquidy, let it set longer.

Can I use almond milk or another dairy-free milk?

Absolutely! Any plant-based milk (almond, coconut, oat, etc.) will work great in this recipe, making it a wonderful option for vegan or dairy-free diets.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is a rich, creamy, and healthy dessert that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of cacao, maple syrup, and chia seeds makes it a nutrient-packed treat with a satisfyingly indulgent flavor. With minimal prep time and the option to make it ahead of time, it’s a great go-to dessert or snack when you’re craving something sweet and nutritious. Top it off with your favorite garnishes, and enjoy!

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