Are you craving something chocolaty yet nutritious? This easy and delicious chocolate chia seed pudding recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth while sneaking in some health benefits.
The information provided on this site is based on my personal experience living with alpha-gal syndrome. I consistently cite and link to expert sources, but nothing published on this site should be perceived as medical advice.
Alpha-gal sensitivities vary by person. You should understand your dietary restrictions, making any adjustments needed, and directing any questions to your physician.
Chia seeds have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their impressive health benefits. These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients essential for a healthy diet. They’re rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
You may already sprinkle chia seeds into oatmeal, blend them into smoothies, or bake them into muffins. But did you know you can also use make chia seeds to make a satisfying pudding? Chia seed pudding is a perfect way to incorporate this superfood into your diet. And when combined with chocolate, it becomes an indulgent treat that you won’t feel guilty about. This easy and delicious chocolate chia seed pudding recipe is one you can enjoy any time of the day, from breakfast to bedtime snack.
In This Article
Are Chia Seeds Healthy?
Native to Central America, chia seeds are tiny black or white seeds from the salvia Hispanica plant. They are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and calcium that do your body good. And just two tablespoons of chia seeds add 4.7 grams of alpha-gal friendly protein to your diet.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
These are the key ingredients needed to whip up a batch of chia seed chocolate pudding.
Avocado
You don’t just add extra creaminess by blending one ripe avocado into this chia pudding. You also incorporate fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, K, and B6.
Cacao Powder or Cocoa Powder
Using 100% unsweetened cacao powder or cocoa powder not only allows you to control how (and how much) your pudding is sweetened but also ensures that it is alpha-gal friendly.
What’s the difference between cacao powder and cocoa powder? Cacao powder is a minimally processed form of the cacao bean, while cocoa powder is a highly processed form. Cacao powder retains all the impressive nutrients that give it superfood status, making it my preferred choice for chocolate chia pudding. Either option works well in this chia pudding recipe.
Sage Advice: Looking for more healthy ways to start your day with chocolate? Try these chocolate overnight oats for another tasty breakfast option starring cocoa powder.
Related Article: The Truth About Alpha-Gal and Chocolate: Is it Safe to Eat?
Agave
I prefer this sweet syrup derived from the agave plant because it has a lower glycemic index than honey or maple syrup. However, you can easily substitute other sweeteners that satisfy your taste buds. Because I prefer the slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate to the sweeter flavors of milk chocolate, this recipe isn’t as sweet as some others you might find, so increase the sweetness to your taste as desired.
Cinnamon
If you don’t like (or don’t have) ground cinnamon on hand, you can easily omit this ingredient. However, just a touch of cinnamon adds something extra to this chocolate chia seed pudding recipe.
Milk
You may wonder, “What kind of milk can I use in chia seed pudding?” The good news is that almost any kind of milk will work, including dairy-free milk. Alpha gals who tolerate cow’s milk can make chocolate chia seed pudding with skim, low-fat, or whole milk. Alpha gals who avoid dairy products can use plant-based milk. I’ve made chia seed pudding with soy milk, unsweetened almond milk, cashew milk, oat milk, and coconut milk, and all are delicious!
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are the star of this pudding recipe. Not only do they absorb liquid and form a gel-like consistency, making them perfect for pudding, but they are also a nutritional powerhouse.
When choosing chia seeds for your pudding, you’ll likely come across both black and white varieties. Both types are nutritionally similar and can be used interchangeably in recipes, so the choice is entirely a matter of preference. Some people find that black chia seeds have a slightly more robust flavor, while white chia seeds tend to be more neutral. However, this difference is subtle and is often masked by other ingredients, especially in a flavorful dish like chocolate chia seed pudding.
Sage Advice: If you’re not a fan of the tapioca-like texture of standard chia seed pudding, don’t worry! Pour the chia seed pudding mixture into a high-powered blender between steps 4 and 5 of this recipe and puree to create a mousse-like alternative.
How to Make Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seed pudding is a breeze to make. Just follow these key steps:
- Blend all ingredients except the chia seeds.
- Stir in the chia seeds and let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Refrigerate for at least two hours.
- Add your favorite toppings, if desired, and enjoy!
Related Article: How to Eat Chia Seeds: 9 Delicious Ways
How to Store Chocolate Chia Pudding
Storing your chocolate chia seed pudding is as easy as making it. Simply store the chia pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. I like using these mason jars with lids to store chia seed pudding.
Chia Seed Pudding Toppings
While this chocolate chia seed pudding is delicious on its own, adding toppings can introduce new flavors and textures, making each bite even more enjoyable. There are endless topping possibilities, and you can get creative based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Fresh Fruit
Adding fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries can add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness. Sliced bananas or peaches can also be a great addition.
Nuts, Seeds, or Granola
Sprinkle in some chopped pistachios, sliced almonds, hemp seeds, or a few spoonfuls of granola for a bit of crunch.
Shredded Coconut
For a tropical twist, try adding some unsweetened shredded coconut. It adds additional texture and a mild, sweet flavor.
Herbs, Spices, or Zest
Finely chopped fresh mint, a dash of nutmeg, or a sprinkle of orange zest can elevate your chocolate chia seed pudding to the next level.
More Chocolate
What’s better than chocolate? More chocolate! So if you’re a chocolate lover, amp up the chocolate in this recipe by topping your pudding with mini chocolate chips, cacao nibs, or chocolate shavings. Just be sure to choose a vegan option if you’re an alpha gal who avoids dairy.
Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
- 1 medium avocado peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cacao powder
- 3 tablespoons agave
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cup milk
- ½ cup chia seeds
- Optional toppings: fresh fruit, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, etc. (not included in calorie calculations below)
Instructions
- Blend the avocado, cacao powder, agave, ground cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and milk in a food processor or high-speed blender until the ingredients are combined and smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into a medium-sized bowl.
- Add chia seeds and whisk to combine.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the chia seeds from clumping together.
- Evenly divide the mixture into containers. (I like these glass mason jars with lids.)
- Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours.
- Serve chilled with desired toppings like fresh fruit, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or miniature chocolate chips.
Craving satisfied with this chocolate chia seed pudding! It was rich and flavorful. I’m addicted to it!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I’ve always been craving sweets, and luckily I came across your recipe. This was a lifesaver! I love how the ingredients give balance to the flavors of it! This recipe is a must-try!
It’s a healthy chocolate fix, for sure.
I absolutely loved this recipe! Protein-packed and delicious, it had me feeling full and energised for hours!
Yay! Glad you enjoyed it!
Love how creamy the avocado made this pudding recipe! It’s a wonderful dairy free treat (made mine with almond milk) that I don’t have to feel bad about indulging in!
I love the way it satisfies my chocolate cravings in a guilt-free way!
Omgsh this was so creamy and delicious! I never would have thought to use an avocado – such a great idea.
This chocolate pudding was so quick and easy to make. We served it with fresh fruit and nuts which made for a super filling treat.
I’m always looking for natural ways to up my protein intake, especially after working out. Unfortunately most protein powder or shake is out as any sort of artificial sweetener or even those labeled natural (like stevia) trigger severe headaches for me. Thanks for sharing this awesome, protein packed chia pudding recipe with agave!
I love that chia pudding satisfies my sweet tooth in a guiltless way.
I made this for our family get-together. It was so easy to make. And everybody loved it. They were also happy to know that everything in the pudding was healthy stuff. I can see myself making this again and again.
Guilt-free + chocolate = the perfect combo!
I love the no bake and easy make ahead nature of chia puddings. As a choco-holic, this one passes the test with enough chocolatey goodness!
My family was blown away with how decadent this healthy treat was. I have an avocado tree and I couldn’t think of any other ways of eating avocados that wasn’t in a salad or a dip… but this is now my go to recipe.
Ooooooh, an avocado tree. That sounds divine!
My family devoured this healthy Chai pudding. I’ll be making it again, but next time I’ll double the batch!
Smart! It does store well for a few days if there are leftovers.
I make this delicious chia seed pudding for breakfast. Everyone loved it. It was super smooth and tasty.
I needed a little something mid-afternoon and this chocolate chia pudding was the best answer ever! I’ll be making this on repeat!
My daughter had to find a healthy and nutritious dessert idea for her school project. SHe found your recipe and decided to give it a go (Even though she is the fussiest eater and will not touch avocado!)
She loved the dish! And your post was so useful when she was writing her project up as it had so much information about the ingredients.
THANK YOU
The good news about avocado in any chocolate pudding or fudgesicle recipe is that it makes every bite creamier with zero hint that it’s in there. 😉
Love this healthy way to satisfy my sweet tooth! Yum.
Chia seeds made this dairy-free pudding so creamy. Chocolate flavor was intense. What a decadent treat!