This chocolate chia seed pudding is a simple, make-ahead recipe that comes together with just a few ingredients. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with fiber and omega-3s—perfect for breakfast, a snack, or anytime you want something nourishing and satisfying.
I recently shared my Greek Yogurt Chia Seed Pudding and discussed how protein is having its moment—everything seems to be labeled ‘protein’ this and ‘protein’ that! And since that recipe has been gaining traction on Pinterest (so fun to see!), I wanted to throw together a chocolate version. Same nourishing base, now with a rich cocoa twist (and the correct ratios of liquid to chia for you!)
While protein may be having its moment, I’m still all about fiber. Lately, I’ve been focusing on adding more variety of plant foods to my meals to support the good bacteria in my gut and get a broader range of helpful nutrients. In simpler terms? We all know that fiber helps keep us full and regular. Still, as a dietitian, I especially appreciate that some high-fiber foods—such as chia seeds—also act as prebiotics, feeding the beneficial bacteria that keep our gut healthy.
Ingredients: Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
- Cocoa Powder: Using cocoa powder here as cacao powder is a little more bitter, and you’d probably need to add more maple syrup. Aiming to add as little added sugar as possible!
- Greek Yogurt: This will naturally provide more protein. I’ve not tried this with regular yogurt. With the amount of liquid used, this was perfect, as it allowed the chia seeds to set and stay thick without being too thin.
- Chia Seeds: Chia seeds become viscous as they sit and will ‘gel,’ giving a pudding-like consistency.
- Skim Milk: This will also add some protein to the pudding. If using a plant-based alternative, most do not contain protein, which is why protein has been a topic of discussion.
- Vanilla extract: used for some additional flavoring and also helps minimize the amount of maple syrup added (and thus the added sugar).
- Maple Syrup: Start with one tablespoon of maple syrup. You can always add more if needed, and/or depending on the other toppings you add. With the Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding, I was able to use no maple syrup. I found that some added sugar was necessary when using the cocoa powder. The goal will always be to monitor our overall day and identify where our added sugar is coming from.
- Toppings: Easy Strawberry Sauce, Homemade Granola
How To Make Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
- Sift the cocoa powder into a mixing bowl to remove any clumps and ensure a smooth pudding texture.
- Add the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl.
- Whisk until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy. (An immersion blender works well here, too.)
- Stir in the chia seeds, whisking until they’re evenly distributed.
- Sit – let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, whisking every few minutes to prevent the chia seeds from clumping or settling.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until thickened and set.
- Stir once more before serving, then enjoy.
Topping Ideas
Once the chia pudding has set, you’re ready to add your toppings! Mix and match for added texture and flavor.
- Fresh Fruit: Fruit not only provides natural sugar, but also fiber. Win-win! Use whatever fruits you like; however, I think the berries added here would be the best complement to chocolate.
- Nut butter: Drizzle some creamy nut butter on top for a delicious addition. Almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter would all pair great with chocolate! If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter (look for the no-added sugar option).
- Nuts: If you prefer a crunchy texture over a creamy one, add some chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or peanuts. These will add not only additional protein but also heart-healthy fats and fiber!
- Granola: I love adding granola for a crunchy texture!
Chia seeds are nutrient powerhouses and incredibly absorbent, which is what gives this recipe its creamy, thick texture. That said, not all chia seeds absorb the same; some brands may be less effective, and expired seeds might not absorb liquid at all. If your pudding turns out runny, it might be time for a fresh bag. I like to buy mine in bulk from Costco and store the main bag in the freezer to extend shelf life, keeping a smaller container in the fridge for everyday use.
Chia seed pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re meal prepping and want to double (or triple) the amounts, simply scale the recipe on the recipe card to ‘2x’ or ‘3x’.
Other Breakfast Ideas
- Savory Crepes with Egg, Spinach, and Cheese
- Baked Blueberry Oatmeal
- Breakfast Tacos
- Blender Dutch Baby
Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
This chocolate chia seed pudding is a simple, make-ahead recipe that comes together with just a few ingredients. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with fiber and omega-3s—perfect for breakfast, a snack, or anytime you want something nourishing and satisfying.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups skim milk
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2%
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup*
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Sift the cocoa powder into a mixing bowl to remove any clumps and ensure a smooth pudding texture.
- Add the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl.
- Whisk until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy. (An immersion blender works well here, too.)
- Stir in the chia seeds, whisking until they’re evenly distributed.
- Sit – let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, whisking every few minutes to prevent the chia seeds from clumping or settling.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until thickened and set.
- Stir once more before serving, then enjoy.
Notes
*I used one tablespoon of maple syrup. Always start with less and add more as needed depending on the other toppings you use.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Breakfast
6 thoughts on “Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding”
I love strawberries with chocolate! Yum!!
Can you ground flaxseed instead of chia seeds
Can ground flaxseed be used instead of chia seeds.
not in this recipe – the chia seeds work best!
You don’t say when to add the yogurt.
I fixed the instructions – I had left it out with all the ingredients! Thanks for letting me know!