• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Hungry Healthy Happy
  • Pasta recipes
  • About
  • Recipe Index
  • FREE eBook
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Pasta recipes
  • About
  • Recipe Index
  • FREE eBook
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
  • Let's get social!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Twitter
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Pasta recipes
    • About
    • Recipe Index
    • FREE eBook
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
  • Let's get social!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Dessert

    Chocolate Chia Pudding

    Published: Feb 6, 2021 · Modified: Apr 20, 2022 by Dannii · This post may contain affiliate links · 55 Comments

    3777 shares
    • 678
    Jump to Recipe
    Diet: Gluten Free / Low Carb / Vegan
    Chocolate Chia Pudding topped with a strawberry with a text title overlay.

    A Chocolate Chia Pudding is so creamy, delicious and easy to make and it tastes far more indulgent than it actually is. Packed full of protein it's a super simple healthy dessert (or breakfast/snack), with no baking involved and you can even add some other flavours like orange or ginger. It's also vegan and gluten free. Just 130 calories and only 5 ingredients.

    Chocolate pudding in two glass ramekins surrounded by strawberries and cocoa powder.

    This is a healthy chocolate dessert with no banana or avocado in it. It isn't made with a tonne of butter or cream and instead we have used almond milk and chia seeds to give it that pudding texture. If you haven't tried a chia pudding before, then prepare for your mind to be blown.

    This is about s simple as chocolate pudding is going to get. You just mix the chia seeds with almond milk (although you can use any milk), cocoa powder, maple syrup and vanilla and leave them to soak for a few hours - although preferably overnight.

    It's so easy to make that you probably have all the ingredients already in your kitchen. So what are you waiting for? Go make it! It's easy enough for kids to help make it too. If you are looking for other ways to use chia seeds, then why not try our Microwave Porridge, Frozen Yogurt Bark or Easy Banana Porridge.

    Jump to:
    • Why you will love it
    • Ingredients needed
    • How to make chia pudding - Step by step
    • Health benefits of chia seeds
    • Variations
    • What to serve with chocolate pudding
    • Storage
    • FAQs
    • Extra tips
    • More chocolate recipes
    • Recipe
    • Feedback

    Why you will love it

    • Easy - This is so easy. You just stir everything together, and that's it.
    • Protein packed healthy dessert - The chia seeds mean this is full of protein and that will keep you fuller for longer.
    • Low in calories - There are just 136 calories a portion. It tastes far more indulgent than it actually is.
    • Vegan and gluten free - Perfect for children with allergies.
    • Kids love it - If you kids love chocolate pudding, then this is a lighter and lower sugar version for them to enjoy.
    • Easy to make different flavours - This is really versatile and we have given some flavour options below.

    Ingredients needed

    All the ingredients needed for this recipe with text overlay labels.
    • Milk - Any milk will work. Cashew or oat milk will make it really creamy, whilst still keeping it vegan and coconut milk will make it even thicker and add a delicious coconut flavour to it. If using coconut milk then we usually thin it down with some other milk too, so it isn't too thick.
    • Chia seeds - This is the star of the dish. You can find them in most supermarkets now, with all the other nuts and seeds. You can use white or black chia seeds
    • Cocoa powder - Use a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder.
    • Vanilla - This adds a real warm flavour. Vanilla does to sweet dishes what salt does to savoury, and it really draws out the flavours.
    • Maple syrup - This is what we have used to sweeten it. Adjust it to suit your own tastes, but we didn't want it to be overly sweet. You can swap maple syrup for honey, however it will no longer be vegan.

    A full ingredients list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

    How to make chia pudding - Step by step

    One: Put the chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup and vanilla extract in a large bowl.

    A large dish containing chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup and vanilla.

    Two: Add the almond milk and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 5 hours (overnight is best).

    Unmixed chocolate pudding in a large dish.

    Three: Pour into a blender and blend until smooth (optional).

    A blender jug full of blended chocolate pudding.

    Health benefits of chia seeds

    Yes! It's a healthy and nutrient dessert, that is much healthier than most of chocolate desserts. Using chia seeds not only gives it a delicious texture, but it adds lots of protein to it too. Chia seeds are also a great source of healthy fats, antioxidants and fibre.

    Chia is a seed that actually comes from the mint family, although it doesn't taste like mint, and has a kind of nutty taste. The great thing about them is that although they look like tiny seeds, when you add liquid to them and leave them for a few hours, they get much, much bigger, making them the perfect ingredient for a healthy dessert.

    This dessert is so healthy, that we often eat it for breakfast. Chocolate pudding for breakfast - how amazing does that sound?!

    A glass ramekin containing chocolate pudding. Half a strawberry is on top.

    Variations

    We have gone with a classic chocolate flavour here, but there is so much that you can do with this pudding. A drop of peppermint extract or orange extract will add a lovely flavour.

    If you want to add some extra texture, as well as some extra chocolate, then some dark chocolate chips stirred in are a delicious addition.

    If you want to make this look really pretty, then in a serving jar you could add a layer of fruit compote and then put the chia pudding on top. You could also use our Strawberry Puree.

    Chocolate pudding in a glass pot topped with half a strawberry.

    What to serve with chocolate pudding

    Chocolate and berries are such a classic combination, so we like to scatter a few raspberries or strawberries on top, but cherries work well too.

    You could also add desiccated coconut, chopped nuts, some chocolate chips/shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Anything that you would add to ice cream will work on this chocolate chia pudding too. My kids love it with granola on top for some crunch, and this is my preferred topping if I am serving it for breakfast too.

    Why not top this chia pudding with some of our Low Sugar Granola for a lovely crunchy topping?

    Storage

    Store: This pudding will last for about 4-5 days in the fridge. We like to make a batch and keep it in the fridge for desserts, breakfasts and snacks through the week.

    Freeze: You can freeze chia pudding - just make sure that you freeze it in individual portions.

    Defrost: Defrost it overnight in the fridge.

    FAQs

    What does chia pudding taste like?

    It tastes like a creamy pudding, but it has some added crunchy texture from the seeds. Chia seeds themselves don't actually taste of anything, so the pudding will taste like whatever other flavours you add - like the cocoa powder and maple syrup.

    Is chia pudding suitable for children?

    Yes, this is suitable for children, however be mindful of portion sizes because chia seeds are full of fibre and this can make smaller children full very quickly and cause them some discomfort.

    Is chia pudding vegan?

    If you use a plant based milk, then this can be vegan. Just make sure you use maple syrup and not honey.

    Is chia pudding gluten free?

    Yes, as long as you make sure there is no cross contamination, then this can be gluten free.

    How can I make my chia pudding really smooth?

    If you want a smoother pudding, which kids usually prefer, then blitz it in  food processor or blender first. This will make it even creamier.

    Why isn't my chia pudding thick?

    If it isn't very thick, then add another tablespoon of chia seeds and leave it longer to thicken. The longer you leave it, the thicker it will be.

    heart icon

    Extra tips

    • Make sure your chia seeds haven't been sat in your cupboard for too long. If they have then they won't gel together to make a pudding. If you can't see this happening after about 20 minutes, then you will need to buy some new chia seeds and start again.
    • Make different flavour pudding by adding peppermint or orange extract.
    • You can use any dairy or dairy free milk, however coconut milk will make it much thicker.
    • If you don't like the texture, whizz it up in a food processor or blender to make it smoother.
    • You can swap the maple syrup for honey or another liquid sweetener.
    • Add a pinch of cinnamon for some added warmth flavour.
    • A pinch of sea salt will bring all the other flavours out too.

    More chocolate recipes

    • Mint Chocolate Dessert in a glass topped with chocolate chips and mint leaves.
      Mint Chocolate Dessert
    • Easy Chocolate Sauce drizzled over some vanilla ice cream.
      Easy Chocolate Sauce
    • Chocolate pots topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
      Chocolate Pots
    • Easy Chocolate Mousse in a glass ramekin topped with raspberries.
      Easy Chocolate Mousse

    If you’ve tried this Chocolate Chia Pudding, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
    Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

    Recipe

    Two pot of Chocolate Chia Pudding topped with strawberries

    Chocolate Chia Pudding

    By: Dannii
    This healthy and vegan Chocolate Chia Pudding only has 5 ingredients and is so simple to make. It's such and easy recipe!
    A circular logo saying GF.
    Gluten Free
    The words low carb in a white circle.
    Low Carb
    An illustration of a v-shaped plant in a pot.
    Vegan
    4.78 from 75 votes
    Pin Print Save recipe Recipe saved!
    Course: Breakfast, Dessert
    Cuisine: British
    Prep: 1 minute min
    Refrigeration time: 5 hours hrs
    Total: 5 hours hrs 1 minute min
    Servings: 4 people
    Calories: 136kcal
    Allergens:
    An illustration of four different nuts.
    Nuts
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    • 480 ml (2 cups) Almond milk
    • 80 g (0.5 cups) Chia seeds
    • 2 tablespoon (2 tablespoon) Cocoa powder
    • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
    • 1 tablespoon Maple syrup - (optional, but it does make it nice and sweet)

    Instructions

    • Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and put in the fridge for at least 5 hours (overnight is better).
    • Pour the mixture into a blender and blend until smooth. You can skip this step if you like, but I like the smoother pudding.

    Notes

    • Make sure your chia seeds haven't been sat in your cupboard for too long. If they have then they won't gel together to make a pudding. If you can't see this happening after about 20 minutes, then you will need to buy some new chia seeds and start again.
    • This pudding will keep in the fridge for about 4-5 days.
    • Make different flavour pudding by adding peppermint or orange extract.
    • You can use any dairy or dairy free milk, however coconut milk will make it much thicker.
    • If you don't like the texture, whizz it up in a food processor or blender to make it smoother.
    • You can swap the maple syrup for honey or another liquid sweetener.
    • Add a pinch of cinnamon for some added warmth flavour.
    • A pinch of sea salt will bring all the other flavours out too.

    Nutritional Information

    Serving: 1portion | Calories: 136kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Sodium: 160mg | Potassium: 133mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 279mg | Iron: 1.9mg
    DisclaimerThe nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

    You'll love these too...

    • A rectangular tin full of mango sorbet with some being scooped out.
      Easy Mango Sorbet
    • A decorated cheesecake topped with berries and caramel sauce.
      How to Decorate a Cheesecake
    • Healthy Eton mess in a serving glass.
      Healthy Eton Mess
    • Four pineapple ice lollies on a bed of ice.
      Pineapple Ice Lolly

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Lesley Taylor

      November 10, 2021 at 5:38 pm

      5 stars
      I am on my second batch of this as I love it so much , great easy yummy pudding . Thank you

      Reply
      • Dannii

        November 11, 2021 at 8:54 am

        So glad you enjoyed it.

        Reply
    2. Beth Sachs

      February 08, 2021 at 7:30 pm

      5 stars
      Such an easy dessert recipe to make ahead, perfect for busy days!

      Reply
    3. Tara

      February 08, 2021 at 6:45 pm

      5 stars
      What a delicious dessert! Definitely perfect for when I am craving something chocolate. That texture looks amazing!

      Reply
    4. Kate

      February 06, 2021 at 5:56 pm

      5 stars
      I've tried making chia pudding before in the past (not this recipe) and it wasn't super flavorful, but this recipe is inspiring me to try again because it looks super creamy and chocolate-y!

      Reply
    5. Andrea Metlika

      February 06, 2021 at 5:47 pm

      5 stars
      I like that it's no bake and so easy to make that I can have it any time. Maybe even for a protein packed and healthy breakfast.

      Reply
    6. Jersey Girl Cooks

      February 06, 2021 at 5:25 pm

      5 stars
      This is not only a great dessert but a delicious breakfast!

      Reply
    7. Amanda Wren-Grimwood

      February 06, 2021 at 4:13 pm

      5 stars
      Thanks for all the tips on chia as I don't use it much and had no idea it would make such a great healthy dessert!

      Reply
    8. veenaazmanov

      February 06, 2021 at 2:55 pm

      5 stars
      Such an easy and quick dessert . Presentation perfect and yum. Weekend could be so special with this.

      Reply
    9. Alison

      February 06, 2021 at 2:38 pm

      5 stars
      Just in time for Valentine's Day! This chia pudding is healthy, creamy, and simple to make!

      Reply
    10. Heather Johnson

      February 06, 2021 at 2:17 pm

      5 stars
      can you blend it before you leave it set for the 5 hours? definitely trying this one tomorrow!

      Reply
    11. Lisa Huff

      February 06, 2021 at 1:22 pm

      5 stars
      Ohhhh I think I need to buy some new chia seeds. I think you were talking to me when you said if they've been sitting in your cupboard too long. haha!!

      Reply
    12. Brittany

      January 20, 2015 at 11:01 pm

      While I LOVE LOVE LOVE the avocado pudding I've been making, I must try this for a LESS fatty version. Then I will feel better about eating 2-3 servings at once. HAHA.

      Reply
    13. Kelly - Life Made Sweeter

      January 19, 2015 at 9:16 pm

      5 stars
      This pudding looks so creamy and delicious, Dannii! I love the chia seeds and almond milk in here! This sounds like the perfect healthy and decadent treat!

      Reply
    14. Medha @ Whisk & Shout

      January 18, 2015 at 3:47 pm

      5 stars
      Yum! This pudding looks so decadent I can't believe it's under 150 calories! Love the use of chia seeds too, what a great protein booster :)

      Reply
    « Older Comments

    Made this recipe? Let me know! Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Dannii in hat and glasses stood on a beach.

    Welcome!

    My name is Dannii. Here you will find easy family recipes with a healthy twist.
    Established in 2011, Hungry Healthy Happy has become one of the UK's most popular food blogs, with two successful recipe books published.

    About HHH»

    Pasta Recipes

    • A large bowl of Greek spaghetti with a pair of tongs in it.
      Greek Spaghetti with Tomato and Feta
    • A white plate with mushroom bolognese and spaghetti.
      Mushroom Bolognese
    • Quick Broccoli Pasta on a large plate next to a purple towel.
      Quick Broccoli Pasta
    • Healthy mac and cheese in a round dish with a portion scooped out.
      Healthy Mac and Cheese
    • Sardine pasta in a bowl with a fork.
      Sardine Pasta
    • Easy Marmite Pasta in a bowl topped with cheese and chopped herbs.
      Easy Marmite Pasta

    Featured in

    Collage of media outlet logos.

    Popular Recipes

    • A pile of air fryer chips.
      The Best Air Fryer Chips
    • 10 Minute Chickpea and Spinach Curry on a blue and white plate.
      10 Minute Chickpea and Spinach Curry
    • Easy tomato pasta sauce coating tagliatelle on a white plate.
      Easy Tomato Pasta Sauce
    • Slow cooker beef brisket sliced up on a serving board.
      Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

    Footer

    Help & Information

    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Policy
    • Advertising
    • Blog

    About us

    • About us
    • Newsletter Sign Up!
    • Press enquiries
    • Web Stories
    • FAQ

    Follow us

    • Twitter
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok

    ^ back to top

    Featured in

    A selection of publications that Hungry Healthy Happy has been featured in

    As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2011-2023 Hungry Healthy Happy • All Rights Reserved • Site Design by D Martin

    • 678
    3.8K shares