Looking for a healthy-ish dessert to make for Valentine’s Day? Look no further- this Chocolate Chia Pudding is decadent but not heavy on calories.
I fully believe that dessert should follow after every meal BUT the waistband on my jeans is telling me otherwise. This pudding recipe is chocolately & delicious but not loaded with sugar. I love that the chia seeds help keep you full. Plus it’s both dairy free & vegan (if you leave out the chocolate chips or swap for a vegan version).
Why chia seeds?
They are a natural anti-inflammatory food & have a ton of health benefits. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds contain: plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, protein, minerals, fiber & antioxidants. They also act as a natural thickening agent & that’s why they’re great when making pudding. Chia seeds also help aid in the digestion process due to the fact that they contain a lot of fiber.
There have also been studies that say chia seeds promote good sleep & help ease anxiety. Sign me up. You don’t need anymore reasons to make this pudding! I’m giving you the go ahead to eat this pudding every night before bed.
Also, I used almond milk in this recipe- but any dairy free milk would work. Oat milk & cashew milk are other great options for this pudding. Full fat coconut milk will also be a great option & will make this pudding slightly thicker.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup almond milk, unsweetened
- ⅓ cup chia seeds
- pinch of salt
- Chocolate chips for garnish
- Combine all ingredients in a medium sized bowl & refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve in small dessert cups & top with chocolate chips, chocolate chunks or whipped cream.
