Chocolate Chia Pudding

Published June 18, 2025

Time

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Resting Time: 8 hours (overnight)

  • Total Time: 15 minutes (prep) + 8 hours (resting)

Servings

4–6 servings

Ingredients

(US measurements + European equivalents in parentheses)

  • ¼ cup (35g) cocoa powder or raw cacao powder

  • 2 cups (500ml) milk or milk alternative (e.g., oat, almond, soy)

  • ½ cup (85g) black or white chia seeds

  • ¼ cup (80g) maple syrup (or sweetener of choice: date syrup, agave, or honey)

  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract

  • ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) ground cardamom (optional)

  • A tiny pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

  • Toppings: Fresh berries, banana slices, chopped stone fruit, chopped nuts, granola, or coconut flakes

Pro Tips

  • Smooth Texture: Thoroughly whisk the mixture after 30 minutes and again after 60 minutes of refrigeration to prevent lumps.

  • Nutrient Boost: Use cacao powder (e.g., Terrasoul) instead of cocoa—cacao is lower in cadmium (a heavy metal concern in some brands).

  • Anti-Clumping: Whisk for 5+ minutes after adding liquids, or shake in a sealed jar to avoid clumps.

  • Chai Twist: Omit cocoa/cacao powder; add ½ teaspoon cardamom, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of black pepper for a spiced chai flavor.

Preparation Steps

  1. Base Mixing: In a large bowl, whisk cocoa/cacao powder to break clumps. Add milk and whisk until fully combined.

  2. Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and nutmeg (if using). Whisk vigorously for 5 minutes to prevent clumping (or shake in a sealed jar).

  3. First Refrigeration Whisk: Transfer to a container (or individual jars). Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Remove, whisk thoroughly, then return to fridge.

  4. Second Whisk for Firmness: After another 30 minutes, whisk again to ensure a smooth texture. Refrigerate for 8+ hours (overnight).

  5. Serve: Stir gently before serving. Top with fresh berries, nuts, or granola.

Storage

Keep refrigerated, covered, for up to 5 days. Thicken further over time? Add a splash of milk to loosen.

User Notes

  • “A decadent, healthy dessert for self-care—balances chocolate cravings without guilt.”

  • “Shaking the jar (instead of whisking) works great to dislodge stubborn clumps.”

  • “Date syrup is a richer, lower-GI sweetener than maple syrup for this recipe.”

Total Time Adjustment: The 8-hour resting time is non-negotiable for optimal texture. Patience yields a creamy, set pudding!