rewrite this title Creamy Chocolate Chia Pudding

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!

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!