Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Introduction
This Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is a simple and nutritious dessert that combines rich cacao with the unique texture of chia seeds. It’s perfect for a make-ahead treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free)
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- Raspberries or other fruit, for topping
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish
- Coconut whipped cream, optional
- Nuts and seeds, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, add cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, and chia seeds. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 2: Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes without stirring to allow the chia seeds to start thickening the pudding. After this, whisk it once more to break up any clumps.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to let the pudding fully set and thicken.
- Step 4: When ready to serve, stir the pudding well. Spoon into small dessert glasses and top with raspberries, chocolate shavings, coconut whipped cream, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds as desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for different flavor profiles and to make it dairy-free.
- Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a subtle spicy twist.
- For extra creaminess, blend the mixture briefly before refrigerating.
Storage
Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving if separation occurs. This pudding is best enjoyed chilled but can be eaten at room temperature as well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey, agave syrup, or even coconut sugar can be used depending on your preference or dietary restrictions.
How thick should the pudding be before refrigerating?
After the initial 15-minute rest, the mixture should start to thicken but will still be somewhat liquid. It will fully set and thicken after refrigeration.
PrintChocolate Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
A rich and creamy Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding that’s both nutritious and indulgent, combining cacao, chia seeds, and sweet maple syrup. This no-cook pudding requires simple mixing and chilling, resulting in a perfect make-ahead dessert or snack topped with fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, coconut whipped cream, and crunchy nuts or seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free)
- ¼ cup chia seeds
Toppings
- Raspberries (or other fruit)
- Chocolate shavings
- Coconut whipped cream
- Nuts and seeds
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-size bowl, add the cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, and chia seeds. Whisk together thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Initial Gel Formation: Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 15 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and begin to gel. After this time, whisk the mixture again to break up any clumps.
- Chill Overnight: Cover the bowl tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the pudding thicken fully.
- Serve: Remove the pudding from the fridge and stir gently. Spoon it into small dessert glasses and garnish with your favorite toppings such as fresh raspberries, chocolate shavings, coconut whipped cream, and a sprinkle of nuts and seeds.
Notes
- Use any type of milk you prefer, including almond, oat, or cow’s milk.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to taste.
- Chia pudding can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and kept refrigerated.
- For a smoother texture, blend the mixture before chilling.
- This recipe is naturally gluten free and can be made vegan by using plant-based milk and toppings.
Keywords: Chocolate pudding, chia seed pudding, healthy dessert, vegan dessert, no bake pudding, gluten free dessert, make-ahead dessert
