Chocolate Chia Pudding

This chocolate chia pudding is the perfect make-ahead dessert, and it’s even healthy enough to be breakfast-approved! With just 7 basic ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a deliciously creamy treat ready to go. Don’t forget toppings like berries and coconut shreds!

If you love sweets but want a more nutritious option, this chocolate chia pudding is for you! And for another quick yet healthy dessert, check out my vegan tapioca pudding.

Why I Love This Recipe

I’m a huge chocolate and peanut butter fan, and this chocolate chia pudding always hits the spot when a craving strikes. I like to prepare a double or triple batch in advance to have on hand during busy weeks.

It’s not only simple to make but also packed with plant-based protein and other nutrients. Peanut butter, protein powder, and cocoa provide a rich, nutty flavor that feels indulgent (but is secretly healthy).

Once chilled, the chia seeds create a perfectly thickened, pudding-like texture. Plus, this pudding is so easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a total crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults!

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need for this easy chocolate chia seed pudding recipe:

• Soy Milk: Adds creaminess and a neutral flavor. Use unsweetened, plain soy milk.
• Cocoa Powder: Provides a rich chocolate flavor. Unsweetened cocoa powder works the best here.
• Chia Seeds: Chia seeds thicken the pudding and add a slight crunch. They also provide fiber and omega-3s.
• Maple Syrup: Sweetens the pudding naturally. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness—just make sure to use 100% pure maple syrup.
• Peanut Butter: Adds a toasty, nutty richness (and chocolate-PB is a match made in heaven). For the best texture, use smooth, natural peanut butter.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Protein Powder: An optional boosts of protein content and adds a slight creaminess. Depending on your preference, you can use unflavored, vanilla, or chocolate-flavored powder.

Substitutions

• Soy Milk: If you don’t like soy or have allergies, try almond, cashew, oat, or coconut.
• Cocoa Powder: Cacao powder has a more intense flavor and slightly bitter notes, but you can use an equal amount of this alternative in a pinch!
• Chia Seeds: Flaxseeds will also thicken the pudding but with a different texture. Start with the same amount and adjust gradually from there.
• Maple Syrup: Agave is another great natural sweetener. It is slightly sweeter, so you may need to adjust the amount to taste.
• Peanut Butter: Almond and cashew butter are other delicious options! If you have nut allergies, try tahini or sunflower seed butter.

How to Make

Making this chocolate chia pudding is so simple! Just follow all my tips for the best results.

Preparation

Measure out the soy milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, peanut butter, salt, protein powder, and chia seeds. Set up your high-speed blender and have a bowl or container ready for the mixture.

Assembly

Step 1
Add all the ingredients (except the chia seeds) to the blender. Blend until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. I suggest starting the blender on low speed to avoid splattering, then gradually increasing it to high for a creamy texture.

Step 2
Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl or container. Stir in the chia seeds until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. It’s crucial to stir thoroughly to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together!

Then let the mixture sit for 30-40 minutes to allow the chia seeds to start absorbing the liquid. Stir the mixture again after this time to break up any clumps.

Step 3
Divide the pudding into smaller jars or leave it in the same container. I like to use small jars for individual servings—this makes it easy to grab and go, and keeps the pudding fresh longer. Cover and refrigerate it for 6-8 hours, or overnight, to let the pudding fully set.

Expert Tip

Chia seeds expand and gel as they absorb liquid, which thickens the pudding. For the smoothest chocolate chia pudding consistency, don’t forget to stir the pudding again after the initial setting period.

This extra step results in the most even consistency and prevents the seeds from settling at the bottom. And don’t skip the chilling time! Leave the pudding for at least 6 hours to allow the chia seeds to fully hydrate, resulting in a creamy, pudding-like consistency.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Milk: The creaminess of your pudding will vary depending on the plant milk you use. Soy and coconut milk are great choices for a rich, creamy texture.
• Blend Thoroughly: Make sure the mixture is well-blended before adding the chia seeds. This helps evenly distribute the flavors and prevents clumps.
• Experiment with Toppings: Enhance the flavor and texture by adding toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, granola, nut butter, and coconut flakes. For a more decadent option, try oat milk whipped cream or coconut whipped cream!

Frequently Asked Questions

Storing

This chocolate chia pudding is easy to meal prep and keep on hand for grab-and-go treats throughout the week!

Fridge
Store the chia pudding in an airtight container or small mason jars. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a stir before serving.

Freezer
Freezing is another option for longer storage! Pour the pudding into airtight, freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze it for up to 1 month, thawing overnight in the fridge before serving.

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