A delicious chocolate chia seed pudding with cherries, cacao, pumpkin seeds, raisins, cinnamon, almond, and orange. Full of plant protein, fiber, and omega fats.
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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
This chocolate chia seed pudding combines the rich, earthy depth of raw cacao with the powerful nutritional profile of chia seeds. It’s easy to prepare, requires no cooking, and makes an ideal breakfast, snack, or dessert. The flavors are layered with citrus, natural sweeteners, seeds, and fruits to provide a balanced and satisfying dish that's both energizing and grounding.
Nutritional Content
- Chia Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, plant protein, and soluble fiber.
- Raw Cacao: A natural source of iron, magnesium, flavonoids, and antioxidants.
- Pumpkin & Sunflower Seeds: Add vitamin E, zinc, and healthy fats.
- Raisins: Provide natural sweetness and polyphenols.
- Orange Juice: Adds vitamin C and bright citrus notes.
- Cherries: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory compounds that support heart health, sleep, and recovery.
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and full of mood-boosting and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The Magic of Raw Cacao
Cacao, indigenous to South America and Africa, is one of the most nutritious and sacred plants on Earth. Ancient Mayan civilizations drank potions of ceremonial cacao to mark significant occasions.
It is now scientifically documented that the minerals in cacao stimulate the 'love' and 'feel-good' hormones - oxytocin and dopamine in our brains. Chocolate is enjoyed worldwide and continues to bring us immense pleasure.
Unfortunately, most commercial chocolate contains additives, chemicals, and refined sugars that can be detrimental to our health.
When sourcing cacao, look for raw, natural cacao - it will be naturally bitter, but you can easily sweeten it yourself using ingredients like coconut syrup, maple, or dates.
Read more about the health benefits of raw cacao here.
Ingredients for Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
For the chocolate chia pudding base (mix the night before):
- Chia seeds
- Cacao powder
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Cinnamon powder
- Pink salt
- Raisins
- Almond milk (or any other milk)
- Coconut syrup (or any other sweetener)
- Orange juice
- Vanilla essence
Ingredients to garnish
- Cherries (or any seasonal fruits)
- Coconut chips
- Granola
- Cacao nibs (toasted and ground)
- Coconut yogurt
Equipment You Will Need
- Weighing scales
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spoon
- Serving bowls or jars
Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding: Step-By-Step Guide
1: Assemble all the ingredients and equipment.
2: Add chia seeds to the bowl.
3: Add the sunflower seeds.
4: Followed by the pumpkin seeds.
5: Add the raisins.
6: In with the cinnamon powder.
7: Add a small pinch of salt.
8: Followed by the cacao powder.
9: Whisk all the dry ingredients together.
10: Add the plant milk.
11: Followed by the orange juice.
12: Add the vanilla paste.
13: Followed by the coconut syrup.
14: Whisk well.
15: Allow to rest for at least 3 hours - ideally overnight.
16: Cover and refrigerate.
17: After at least 3 hours, the chia seeds will have activated. Whisk well and adjust consistency with a little plant milk if required.
18: Chocolate chia seed pudding should be nice and thick, but not too thick!
To Assemble Recipe
I like layering up the chia seed pudding in a glass with a nice thick coconut yogurt, some granola for texture, cacao nibs, and fresh cherries. You can get creative at this stage and add in some of your favorite fruits and toppings!
How to Store the Recipe
- Store in a sealed glass jar or an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Great for meal prepping several portions at once.
- These do not freeze well.
More Recipes To Try
- Coconut Chia Seed Pudding
- Black Sesame Chia Seed Pudding
- Oat & Chia Seed Porridge
- Blueberry Chia Seed Jam
- Black Rice Pudding with Mango
- Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
- Healthy Plant-Based Desserts
FAQ
Yes, but raw cacao retains more nutrients and a richer flavor.
Up to 4 days, making it ideal for batch prep.
Yes, just ensure no allergies to seeds or nuts.
Yes, for a smooth, mousse-like version.
You can add any liquids you like really. We recommend sugar-free and homemade if possible. Our Hemp Seed, Pumpkin Seed Milk, or Walnut Milk will take this recipe to another level!
We hope you enjoy this delicious recipe. If you give it a try, let us know in the comments below - we love hearing your feedback and seeing your recreations.
📋 Recipe
BREDA says
Delicious and so nutritious. Thank you.😋
Thara says
I love this recipe! it tasted so good!!!