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- Chia seeds: 1/2 cup - Almond milk: 2 1/2 cups (or any plant-based milk of choice) - Maple syrup: 1/4 cup (or agave syrup) - Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/4 cup - Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon - Fine sea salt: a pinch - Optional toppings: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, unsweetened coconut flakes Gathering the right ingredients is key to a perfect vegan chocolate chia pudding. Start with chia seeds. They are tiny but mighty. These seeds soak up liquid and create a creamy texture. You will need half a cup. Next, grab two and a half cups of almond milk. You can use any plant-based milk. This choice helps make the pudding rich and smooth. Maple syrup adds sweetness. You can also use agave syrup if preferred. A quarter cup will do. For that deep chocolate flavor, use a quarter cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Pure chocolate is the star. One teaspoon of pure vanilla extract gives this pudding a lovely aroma. Lastly, a pinch of fine sea salt enhances all the flavors. Feel free to add toppings! Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or unsweetened coconut flakes add extra texture. Enjoy mixing and matching! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Combine almond milk, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. In a large bowl, add 2 1/2 cups of almond milk, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of fine sea salt. This mix creates a sweet and rich base. 2. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients. Stir until the cocoa powder blends in completely. You want a smooth and creamy liquid. 3. Gradually add chia seeds while whisking. Slowly sprinkle in 1/2 cup of chia seeds. Keep whisking as you add them. This helps spread the seeds evenly. It also stops them from clumping together. 4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge. Let the chia seeds soak up the liquid. This step is key for a pudding-like texture. 5. Stir before serving and portion into cups or bowls. When you’re ready to enjoy, take the bowl out of the fridge. Stir the pudding well to mix it up. Then, scoop it into cups or bowls. This simple process gives you a delicious vegan chocolate chia pudding. Don't forget to add your favorite toppings! To get the perfect texture, whisking is key. Mix the almond milk, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt well. This step keeps the cocoa smooth. If you skip this, you may end up with lumps. Next, add chia seeds slowly while you whisk. This helps them spread out evenly. If you dump them all at once, they clump up. Chilling time is important too. Aim for at least 4 hours. Overnight works even better. This gives the chia seeds time to soak up the liquid. The longer they sit, the creamier the pudding becomes. For a beautiful presentation, use clear dessert glasses. Start with a layer of pudding. Then, add your toppings like fresh berries or sliced bananas. This creates a lovely look. You can see the rich chocolate and vibrant fruits. Try different toppings for added flavor. Chopped nuts add crunch. Unsweetened coconut flakes give a tropical twist. You can mix and match to find your favorite combo. A mint leaf on top adds a fresh touch too. Pro Tips Storage Tip: Keep the chia pudding stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness. Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to your taste preference. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavorings such as almond extract or a dash of espresso powder for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Serving Suggestion: For a delightful contrast in texture, serve the pudding with crunchy granola or toasted nuts on top. {{image_4}} You can change the taste of your chocolate chia pudding easily. Try adding different flavor extracts. Almond extract gives a nutty touch. Mint extract adds a refreshing twist. Both can really change the dessert. If you want a different flavor, consider using carob powder instead of cocoa. Carob has a sweet, earthy taste. It also has less caffeine, making it a great choice for kids or those avoiding caffeine. Toppings can make your pudding even more fun. For a healthy twist, add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. You can also sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top. They add a rich taste and look great. Seasonal fruits are a perfect way to add fresh flavor. In summer, use berries like strawberries or blueberries. In fall, sliced bananas or apples work well. These toppings not only taste amazing but also make your dish colorful and appealing. To keep your vegan chocolate chia pudding fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure the lid fits tightly. Store it in the fridge for the best taste. It will stay good for up to five days. If you notice any change in smell or texture, it's best to toss it. You can use leftover pudding in different ways. Blend it into smoothies for added creaminess. It works well as a topping for oatmeal or pancakes. You can even mix it into yogurt for a tasty snack. The options are endless, so get creative! Chia seeds are small but powerful. They pack a lot of nutrition. Here are some key benefits: - High in Fiber: They help keep you full and aid digestion. - Rich in Omega-3s: Good for your heart and brain health. - Protein Source: They provide plant-based protein, which is great for vegans. - Antioxidants: They help fight free radicals in your body. Chia seeds also absorb liquid and swell, which helps create a creamy texture in your pudding. Yes, you can! Here are some alternatives: - Agave Syrup: It has a mild flavor and dissolves easily. - Coconut Sugar: This adds a caramel-like taste. - Stevia: If you want it sweeter without calories, this is a good choice. Each sweetener can change the flavor a bit. Try them out to find your favorite! Your vegan chocolate chia pudding will stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge. Here are some tips to keep it fresh: - Use an airtight container: This prevents the pudding from absorbing smells. - Stir before serving: This keeps the texture smooth after storage. Enjoy your pudding within the week for the best taste! This recipe gives you a simple way to make chia seed pudding. You learned how to combine key ingredients, like almond milk and cocoa powder, for a creamy treat. Chilling is key for the best texture, so be patient. You can get creative with toppings to make it unique. Keep leftovers in the fridge and reuse them in smoothies. Enjoy your tasty pudding, packed with healthy chia seeds!

Decadent Vegan Chocolate Chia Pudding

A rich and creamy chocolate chia pudding that is vegan and delicious.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Vegan
Servings 4
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup chia seeds
  • 2.5 cups almond milk
  • 0.25 cup maple syrup
  • 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt
  • to taste various optional toppings: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or unsweetened coconut flakes

Instructions
 

  • In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Using a whisk, mix thoroughly until all ingredients are seamlessly blended and no lumps of cocoa powder remain.
  • Once you achieve a smooth consistency, gradually sprinkle in the chia seeds while whisking continuously. This will help distribute the seeds evenly and prevent them from clumping together.
  • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, giving the chia seeds ample time to absorb the liquid and swell into a creamy pudding-like texture.
  • When ready to serve, remove the pudding from the refrigerator and give it a good stir to ensure an even and creamy consistency throughout.
  • Portion the pudding into individual cups or bowls. Top each serving with your choice of fresh berries, sliced bananas, a handful of chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Notes

For an elegant display, layer the pudding with toppings in clear dessert glasses, allowing the rich chocolate layer and vibrant toppings to be visible. Garnish with a mint leaf for a fresh touch!
Keyword chia pudding, chocolate, dessert, vegan