Fudgy Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins
Rest Time 3 hrs
Total Time 3 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Courses: Breakfast, Brunch, Desserts
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Fudgy Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert that’s both healthy and satisfying. Made with nutrient-packed chia seeds, unsweetened cocoa, and natural sweeteners, it delivers a decadent chocolate flavor while staying gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or meal prep, this easy recipe is a wholesome way to enjoy chocolate without the guilt.

Ingredients
    For the Chocolate Chia Pudding
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 0.5 cup chia seeds
  • 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted for smoothness)
  • 0.25 cup pure maple syrup (or honey, if not strictly vegan)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 0.25 tsp fine sea salt
  • For Optional Toppings
  • 0.25 cup dark chocolate shavings (70% cocoa, dairy-free if needed)
  • 0.5 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • 2 tbsp toasted coconut flakes
  • 2 tbsp chopped roasted nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts)
Instructions
    Mix Dry Ingredients
  1. 1
    In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Sifting the cocoa powder ensures there are no clumps, giving a smooth pudding texture.
  2. Blend Wet Ingredients
  3. 2
    In a separate bowl or large measuring jug, whisk the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Combine Mixture
  5. 3
    Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking continuously. This prevents cocoa lumps and ensures the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
  6. Rest & Stir Again
  7. 4
    Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes at room temperature, then whisk again to break up any clumps and evenly distribute the chia seeds.
  8. Chill to Set
  9. 5
    Cover the bowl or transfer to glass jars, then refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours (overnight is best). The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and create a rich, fudgy pudding texture.
  10. Assemble & Serve
  11. 6
    Stir the pudding before serving. Spoon into individual glasses or bowls and top with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, coconut flakes, or nuts. Serve chilled.
Note

Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Great for meal prep.

Sweetness Adjustment: Add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter pudding.

Texture Tip: For an ultra-smooth pudding, blend the mixture in a blender before refrigerating.

Variations:

  • Mocha Chia Pudding: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder.
  • Nutty Chia Pudding: Stir in 2 tbsp almond butter before chilling.
  • Spiced Chia Pudding: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for warmth.
Keywords: healthy dessert, gluten-free, vegan, quick & easy, meal prep
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/fudgy-chocolate-chia-seed-pudding-recipe/