Hot Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe
This Hot Chocolate Chia Pudding is a creamy, nutrient-packed dessert or snack that combines chia seeds, rich cocoa powder, and plant-based milk to create a delicious, chocolatey pudding. It is easy to make, requires no cooking, and can be customized with various toppings and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion—from a healthy breakfast to a guilt-free festive treat.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut milk recommended)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
Optional Toppings
- Banana slices
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Nuts (pistachios, almonds, or walnuts)
- Shredded coconut
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed candy canes
- Dairy-free whipped cream
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice)
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out chia seeds, cocoa powder, plant-based milk, and sweetener to ensure you have everything ready for a smooth preparation.
- Mix Ingredients: In a jar or bowl, combine chia seeds, cocoa powder, and plant-based milk. Stir thoroughly to avoid chia clumps and ensure even distribution of cocoa.
- Sweeten to Taste: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of maple syrup or your preferred sweetener. Adjust based on your desired sweetness level and stir to incorporate.
- Refrigerate: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken into a pudding-like texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir the pudding well before serving. Top with your favorite ingredients like banana slices, berries, nuts, or festive toppings to add flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add a scoop of chocolate protein powder when mixing the ingredients.
- Use unsweetened almond milk and reduce sweetener for a low-calorie version.
- Prepare a large batch and portion into jars for an easy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.
- Enhance holiday flavor by stirring in cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice and topping with crushed candy canes or dairy-free whipped cream.
- Store pudding in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Keywords: chia pudding, hot chocolate pudding, vegan dessert, healthy snack, plant-based pudding, chocolate chia seeds, no-cook dessert, gluten free pudding, dairy free dessert