Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe

Ever stumble upon a little jar of magic that lets you indulge your chocolate cravings guilt-free? Let’s whip up this luscious chia pudding that might just redefine what the ultimate dessert fix feels like!

My Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding is a meeting place for nutrition and indulgence. I love how chia seeds become a creamy delight when mixed with unsweetened almond milk and unsweetened cocoa powder.

They are ridiculously easy to make and, when topped with dark chocolate shavings, become oh-so-rich. I added fresh berries for flavor and a little more nutrition.

I never feel guilty eating this. It may taste like a dessert, but hey – it’s made with superfoods!

Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe Ingredients

• Chia Seeds: High in fiber and protein, helps thicken the pudding.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk: Low-calorie dairy alternative, adds creaminess.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, provides deep chocolate flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener, contributes a mild, sweet taste.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor, adds warmth and aroma.

Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Dark chocolate shavings or chips (optional, for topping)
• Fresh berries (optional, for topping)

How to Make this Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe

1. In a mixing bowl of medium size, whisk together chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.

2. Beat the blend with vigor until the cocoa powder is entirely combined and no lumps are left.

3. Allow the mixture to rest for approximately 5 minutes. Then, stir once more to guarantee that the chia seeds are uniformly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. Place the bowl in the refrigerator, and cover it with plastic wrap or a lid.

5. Let the pudding chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to reach a pudding-like consistency.

6. When the pudding is cool, it should be stirred well to remove any lumps that may have formed. To do this, use a mixing spoon and stir in a large circular motion. You may need to use some force to break up the clumps, but don’t overdo it. If the pudding still seems clumpy after you’ve stirred for a while, it may need to be beaten with a hand mixer.

7. Put the pudding into separate serving bowls or cups.

8. If you wish, you can crown the pudding with dark chocolate shavings or chips to make it even more decadent.

9. Top with fresh berries for a dazzling burst of color and flavor.

10. Eat right after preparation or place in the refrigerator until it’s time to eat. Either way, you’ll enjoy the act of consuming this creamy, chocolatey treat.

Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium-sized mixing bowl
2. Whisk
3. Plastic wrap or lid
4. Refrigerator
5. Mixing spoon
6. Hand mixer (optional)
7. Serving bowls or cups
8. Knife or grater (for chocolate shavings, optional)

FAQ

• Can I use a different milk instead of almond milk?Certainly, you have the option of using any milk you prefer, from cow’s milk and soy milk to oat milk.
• How long does the chia pudding need to set?Chia pudding usually requires a setting time of at least 4 hours, with the best results coming from an overnight stay in the refrigerator for a thick consistency.
• Can I use a different sweetener besides maple syrup?Certainly! You have the option to use sweeteners like agave nectar, honey, or any number of other sweeteners that you might prefer.
• Is it possible to make this pudding without cocoa powder?Chia pudding can be made without cocoa powder for a plain version or with another flavor, such as matcha or fruit puree, for a flavored version.
• What is the best way to store dark chocolate chia pudding?Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should last for about 5 days.
• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?Of course, this dish is ideal for meal prep. Make several servings and stash them in single-serving containers for a no-fuss, heat-and-eat breakfast or snack. 1. Make your breakfast bowls. 2. Store in individual containers. 3. Reheat when ready to eat.
• How can I make this recipe richer in chocolate flavor?If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, you can increase the amount of cocoa powder or you can add melted dark chocolate.

Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For the chia seeds: Replace with ground flaxseed for a slightly different texture and flavor.
When using unsweetened almond milk, you can substitute in a variety of ways. Any plant-based milk can work. For a richer flavor, you might try coconut milk. For something that has a more neutral flavor, oat milk can work quite well. You can even use almond milk, if it’s as unsweetened as the kind from Silk. If you want to go with a nonplant-based option, you can also use any kind of regular milk, though the flavor will vary from brand to brand.
For the cocoa powder that has no added sugar: An option to consider is carob powder.
To replace the maple syrup: Use honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol instead.
To make homemade vanilla extract, you will need the following ingredients:

– 8 oz. glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid
– 2 oz. of vanilla beans (about 12-14 beans)
– 1 cup of alcohol (you can use vodka, rum, bourbon, or a combination)

The instructions for making the extract are uncomplicated:

1. Split each vanilla bean lengthwise and place the beans in the glass bottle.
2. Pour the alcohol into the bottle and tighten the lid.
3. Shake vigorously, and then place the bottle in a cool, dark space and forget about it for at least 2 months (or up to a year).
4. Use in any recipe that calls for vanilla extract.

Pro Tips

1. For a smoother texture, blend the chia pudding mixture in a high-speed blender after the initial mixing. This will break down the chia seeds, resulting in a more mousse-like consistency.

2. If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder or Dutch-processed cocoa powder in place of the regular cocoa powder. This will enhance the depth of the chocolate taste.

3. To add a subtle nutty flavor, consider toasting the chia seeds lightly in a dry pan before mixing them with the other ingredients. This can enhance the overall flavor profile of the pudding.

4. Experiment with additional flavorings such as a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of espresso powder, or even a splash of coconut extract to add complexity and depth to the pudding.

5. For an extra creamy texture, blend in a small amount of ripe avocado or a spoonful of almond butter when mixing your ingredients. This will add healthy fats and make the pudding even more indulgent.