Vegan + Gluten Free Chocolate Chia Pudding

Chia pudding is so easy to make. In less than five minutes, you’ll have prepped a decadent treat (or breakfast!) that’s a healthy and delish alternative to boxed custards. The recipe doesn’t require any cooking. Offers endless flavor combinations. Packs a nutritional punch with its omega-3s, antioxidants, fiber, protein, and calcium. And, yes, the main ingredient had famous beginnings as the grassy “fur” of that ‘80s pottery pet!

Ingredients (Use Organic When Possible)

• ¼ cup chia seeds
• 1 cup coconut milk (or other non-dairy milk)
• 1/8 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (about 2 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons organic agave, honey, or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions 

Whisk together all ingredients. Pour the pudding mixture into an airtight container and chill for three hours or overnight until set. If you prefer a smoother finish instead of the tapioca-like texture, quickly blend the pudding until creamy.

Here, the chocolate flavor adds to the pudding’s richness. When served with seasonal organic berries and a dollop of whipped coconut cream, the dessert satisfies your sweet tooth without relying on refined sugars or artificial sweeteners — and it’s vegan friendly and gluten free. Your body will thank you because chia seeds can help reduce inflammation, improve cognitive abilities, lower cholesterol, regulate digestion, protect against free radicals, and more.

To switch it up, hydrate the seeds using almond milk, juice, or fruit puree. Mix with organic matcha, citrus zest, or ginger. And top with unsweetened coconut chips, almond slivers, walnuts, pistachios, banana slices, mangoes, dried fruit, sea salt, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or other spices.

The possibilities are endless, so share your favorite chia pudding recipe below!