Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

Sweet, creamy yet surprisingly healthy, this Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding harnesses the power of a superfood to pack a nutritional punch in every bite. 

Using just a few ingredients simply mixed together this dessert is an easy, sweet option that the kids can help put together, with absolutely no cooking or baking required. 

It’s so good for you, you can even have it for breakfast!

Chia Seeds

These small, dark seeds come from a native Mexican plant in the mint family. In recent years, chia seeds have become hugely popular not only for their nutritional value but also for their unique ability to thicken liquids to a pudding-like consistency. 

They are frequently used as a plant-based replacement for eggs or cream in bakes and desserts, mimicking that indulgent, thick texture with just a fraction of the calories and lots of vitamins and minerals.

Just 2 tablespoons of chia seeds contain 11 grams of fiber, almost 30% of the recommended daily allowance of magnesium and a good amount of zinc, potassium and B vitamins. 

Compared to most plants, they also have an impressively high protein content, making them a vital part of many weight loss diets. 

Cocoa Powder

The chocolate flavor in this dessert comes from cocoa powder rather than chocolate, making it a healthier alternative to most standard sweet treats. 

It’s worth using the best cocoa powder you can afford, as this will make a real difference to the taste of the end dish. 

For use in desserts like this, you may prefer to use a Dutch-process cocoa (it should be clearly labeled on the box), as it is not quite as bitter and powerful as the untreated stuff. However, if you only have a bitter cocoa on hand, simply up the sweetener a little and you’ll still be left with an indulgent chocolate treat.

Milk

It’s the liquid that gives the chia seeds the thick consistency that transforms the mix into a pudding, with the milk gives it a creaminess that perfectly complements the chocolatey cocoa powder.

You can use any kind of milk you like in this Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding, although using a plant-based variety like almond, cashew or soy milk will help to keep the calories down and make this dessert even healthier. 

For an extra thick consistency and a slightly different flavor, you could even try using coconut milk.

Sweetener

Cocoa powder isn’t sweet on its own, so it does need a helping hand in the sugar department. A liquid sweetener works best for this sweet dish so you don’t end up with an extra grainy texture. 

This recipe calls for maple syrup, though you could just as easily use agave nectar or even honey (though this would affect the overall taste). 

It’s really down to you as to which sweetener you prefer.

Ingredients In This Chocolate Chia Pudding

There are only 5 ingredients in this recipe, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. 

• Chia Seeds: The star of the dish. This is the ingredient that ties everything together. 
• Cacao Powder: You may use cacao or cocoa powder. Cacao powder is often less processed and is healthier than cocoa powder. Feel free to use whichever one you’d like. 
• Maple Syrup or agave nectar: Either one will work. We love the flavors of the maple syrup in this pudding. 
• Vanilla Extract: Our go to ingredients for desserts, baking, and puddings. 
• Milk: Instead of using whole milk, almond milk works beautifully with the chia seeds. 

How To Make It

In a small – medium bowl, add all the ingredients. 

Whisk well until combine and transfer the pudding into a container. 

Refrigerate for 2 hours or more (or overnight). 

Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, and more chocolate. Enjoy. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How healthy is chia seed pudding?

Chia pudding is very healthy and is high in protein. Chia pudding is also high in omega-3s. It is also packed with fiber which will keep you full all day long.  

Is chia pudding good for breakfast?

Chia pudding is absolutely perfect for breakfast. It is filling and so versatile. It pairs well with any fruit. 

Is chia pudding or oatmeal healthier?

Both chia pudding and oatmeal is healthy. However, chia seeds have more calories than oatmeal. Oatmeal has more protein than chia seeds.  

Which is better flax or chia seeds?

Both chia seeds and flax seeds have fiber, and both have a good amount of omega-3 fats

Can chia seeds be eaten raw?

Yes, you can eat chia seeds raw. You can blend it or grind it. It can also be added to smoothies. 

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding Variations

• Sweetener: Use Stevia, honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, or any natural sweetener.

• Milk: You may use coconut milk, almond milk, whole milk, full fat milk, and soy milk. You may also use Greek Yogurt. 

• Fruits: This chocolate chia seed pudding dish is perfect with raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, almond (shaved), granola, bananas, diced apples, mangos, and pears.

More Delicious Breakfast & Dessert Recipes To Enjoy

You don’t have to limit yourself to this chocolate chia seed pudding. Listed below are a few more breakfast and dessert recipes to enjoy. 

How To Store Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

Stored in an airtight container, this Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding will last between 4 to 5 days in the fridge, making it a great recipe to batch cook at the start of the week for a last-minute dessert or saintly work snack.

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