Overnight Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
This dreamy chocolate chia pudding is like having dessert for breakfast! Perfect for busy mornings or when chocolate cravings strike, this pudding hits all the right notes – decadent yet wholesome, satisfying yet light.
Top it with fresh berries and a sprinkle of coconut for a breakfast that feels downright indulgent while fueling your day with sustained energy.
Variations & Substitutions
Try using different plant-based milks like almond or oat milk for varying flavors and textures. For added richness, blend in half a ripe banana or a spoonful of nut butter.
You can also experiment with different sweeteners – honey works beautifully if you’re not vegan, or try stevia for a sugar-free version. Want to make it more decadent? Add a shot of espresso or a dash of cinnamon for an elevated flavor profile.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
Always add your chia seeds to the dry ingredients first before introducing liquids. The magic ratio is 2 tablespoons of chia seeds per ½ cup of liquid for a thick, creamy consistency.
The most crucial step? Stirring! Give it a good stir initially, wait 15 minutes, then stir again to prevent any clumping. If your pudding turns out too thin, simply add more chia seeds and let it sit for another hour.
Making the Recipe Stand Out
Transform your chia pudding into an Instagram-worthy creation by thinking about layers and textures. Create a parfait by alternating layers of the chocolate chia pudding with coconut yogurt.
Add visual appeal with colorful toppings like fresh berries, pomegranate seeds, or shaved dark chocolate. For extra crunch, sprinkle with cacao nibs or toasted nuts.
A drizzle of melted chocolate or a dollop of coconut whipped cream can take it from breakfast to dessert territory.
Storage & Reheating
This pudding is a meal prepper’s dream! It stays fresh in airtight containers for 5-7 days in the refrigerator. For grab-and-go convenience, portion it into individual mason jars right after mixing9. If the pudding thickens too much during storage, simply thin it out with a splash of milk. While it’s typically served cold, you can gently warm it if you prefer – just add a little extra liquid while heating to maintain the creamy consistency.
Overnight Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 cups non-dairy milk I love using coconut milk
- ½ cup chia seeds
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional toppings: fresh berries coconut flakes, cacao nibs
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and about ¼ cup of the milk until smooth
- Add remaining milk and maple syrup, whisking to combine
- Add chia seeds and stir well
- Let sit for 15-20 minutes, then stir again to break up any clumps
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours)
- In the morning, give it a quick stir and top with your favorite toppings