You’d think that with lots of kids that mornings would be complete chaos around here. However, I’ve learned that taking a moment to slow down and plan ahead really reduces the chaos. I’ve got plenty of quick breakfasts and snacks in my back pocket, and this chocolate chia pudding is the newest one.
It has protein, healthy fats, natural sweetness from honey, and clean energy from cacao and chia. Chocolate chia pudding is sweet enough for dessert, but healthy enough to accompany breakfast.
Sometimes I’ll just pop the whole bowl in the fridge after mixing, but usually I’ll put them into jars for individual servings. This way the kids (or me!) can easily grab one as needed. Chocolate chia pudding is the perfect grab-and-go snack or dessert.
How to Make Chocolate Chia Pudding With Coconut Milk
The recipe is simple and is basically dumping and mixing ingredients together. If you’re using gelatin make sure to let it “bloom” first though to prevent clumps. Chill for several hours or leave it in the fridge for an overnight chocolate chia pudding.
You can add whatever toppings you like before serving. Some favorites at our house are fresh berries, nuts, or cacao nibs. Shredded coconut, a spoonful of nut butter, or banana slices are also delicious!
I chose canned coconut milk because it’s extra rich and creamy. Raw milk adds extra nutrition and helps get the texture just right. If you want to make this completely dairy-free though, then unsweetened almond milk works as a raw milk substitute. I haven’t tried it, but I bet macadamia, hazelnut, or other nut milk would also be delicious! You could make chocolate chia pudding with almond milk by itself, but it’s not nearly as rich or creamy.
Healthy Chocolate Chia Pudding
Clean ingredients make for a delicious and nutrient dense chia seed pudding. Cacao powder is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols to combat inflammation. You’ll also find minerals, including magnesium, and heart and brain health benefits.
Coconut milk is rich and creamy and full of healthy and filling medium chain triglyceride fats (MCT). Coconut milk can also support brain health, the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
I’ve also added gelatin for additional health benefits and a little protein boost. Gelatin is my go-to for healthier hair, skin, and nails. Plus, it’s great for gut health and digestion. Gelatin helps thicken the pudding a little (along with the chia seeds), but you can use collagen instead. Collagen won’t add thickness, but it does add some clean protein and the same health benefits as gelatin.
Here’s how to make it!
Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe
A delicious chocolate chia pudding that’s perfect for a snack, breakfast, or dessert. Full of nutrients, healthy fats, and rich chocolate.
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If using gelatin, evenly sprinkle a layer of gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold milk in a small bowl and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. If you’re using collagen peptides, skip this step and just add them directly in the next step.
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In a medium bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the coconut milk, remaining milk, cacao powder, honey, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until smooth and fully combined. If you bloomed gelatin, whisk it in now.
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Stir in the chia seeds and mix well to distribute them evenly. Don’t skip this step or they’ll clump at the bottom.
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Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then give it one more good stir to break up any clumps that have formed.
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Pour into individual jars or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until thick and pudding-like.
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Give each jar a stir before eating.
Nutrition Facts
Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 348
Calories from Fat 261
% Daily Value*
Fat 29g45%
Saturated Fat 22g138%
Trans Fat 0.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat 3g
Monounsaturated Fat 2g
Cholesterol 4mg1%
Sodium 227mg10%
Potassium 436mg12%
Carbohydrates 21g7%
Fiber 8g33%
Sugar 11g12%
Protein 8g16%
Vitamin A 56IU1%
Vitamin C 3mg4%
Calcium 139mg14%
Iron 3mg17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of raw honey, shredded coconut, or cacao nibs if desired.
- Store this pudding in the fridge and eat within 3-5 days.
Chia Seed Variations and Toppings
There are plenty of toppings that work well with this chocolate chia pudding recipe. My kids love to customize it with their favorites. Here are a few to try:
- Sliced bananas
- Peanut butter or almond butter
- Fruit jam
- Toasted or chopped nuts
- Chocolate chips
- Cacao nibs
- Berries
- Shredded coconut
Looking for some more chia seed recipes? Here are some of our favorites:
What are some of your favorite ways to use chia seeds? Leave a comment and let us know!
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