Chocolate Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk
Chocolate Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk
If you're looking for a nourishing treat that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients, this Chocolate Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk is the perfect choice. Creamy, chocolatey, and naturally sweetened, it’s a plant-based dish that works beautifully as a healthy breakfast, satisfying snack, or guilt-free dessert. Chia seeds are the star of the show—rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3s, they absorb liquid and transform into a luscious pudding with a texture similar to tapioca. Paired with full-fat coconut milk for extra creaminess (or light coconut milk for a leaner version), unsweetened cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor, and a splash of maple syrup to sweeten naturally, this recipe is simple to prepare and endlessly customizable.
Once it sets, you can top it with your favorite fresh fruit, shredded coconut, cacao nibs, or seeds for added texture and nutrients. I love adding strawberries, blueberries, sliced bananas, and a sprinkle of hemp hearts for a colorful, nutrient-packed finish. It’s a recipe that’s as good for you as it is delicious—rich in antioxidants, heart-healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week for a no-fuss, feel-good treat.
Chocolate Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk Ingredients (Serves 4)
1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups coconut milk (canned, full-fat for creaminess, or light for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Toppings: strawberries, blueberries, shredded coconut, cacao nibs, sliced bananas, and hemp hearts
Chocolate Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk Instructions
Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
Add Chia Seeds:
Stir in the chia seeds and mix thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and thicken into a pudding-like consistency.
Serve:
Once the pudding has set, give it a good stir. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of coconut milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Divide into serving bowls or jars and add your favorite toppings.
Tips:
For a richer chocolate flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate or chocolate chips to the mixture.
If you prefer a sweeter pudding, adjust the sweetener to your taste.
This pudding can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead breakfast or dessert.
Enjoy your creamy, healthy, and indulgent chocolate chia pudding!
Health and Nutrition of Chocolate Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk
Chocolate chia pudding with coconut milk is a nutrient-dense, satisfying, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. It blends wholesome plant-based ingredients that offer a range of health benefits without sacrificing flavor or texture. Let’s explore the nutritional value and health benefits of its core components.
At the heart of the recipe are chia seeds, which are a nutritional powerhouse. Just half a cup of chia seeds provides a significant amount of dietary fiber—about 20 grams—which supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes satiety. Chia seeds are also an excellent plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation. Additionally, they contain quality plant protein, calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants.
Coconut milk adds richness and creaminess to the pudding. Full-fat canned coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are fats that the body metabolizes differently from other fats—providing a quick source of energy and potentially supporting weight management. Coconut milk also contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. If you opt for light coconut milk, the dish becomes lower in calories and fat, while still retaining a pleasant coconut flavor.
Unsweetened cocoa powder delivers more than just a rich chocolate flavor. Cocoa is high in flavonoids—antioxidant compounds that have been linked to improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and enhanced brain function. Cocoa also contains small amounts of minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc.
Maple syrup, used as a natural sweetener, adds a touch of sweetness without the need for refined sugar. While it is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, maple syrup contains small amounts of antioxidants and trace minerals like manganese and zinc, making it a slightly more nutrient-rich option compared to white sugar.
Vanilla extract and a pinch of salt enhance the overall flavor of the pudding without adding significant calories or sodium. Vanilla, especially pure extract, may have antioxidant properties and can support a sense of indulgence without sugar overload.
The real boost in nutrition often comes from the toppings. Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and sliced bananas offer fiber, vitamin C, and a range of antioxidants. Blueberries, in particular, are renowned for their brain-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. Shredded coconut adds texture and a dose of healthy fat, while cacao nibs contribute crunch and additional flavonoids. Hemp hearts are a superfood in their own right—rich in plant-based protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus.
Together, this chocolate chia pudding is a balanced blend of healthy fats, fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein. It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan, making it suitable for a wide variety of dietary needs. When topped with nutrient-rich additions, it becomes a complete and energizing meal that supports gut health, heart health, and long-lasting fullness.
