Chocolate-Maca Chia Pudding

Vegan. Grain Free. Low Carb.

Have you ever tried chia seed pudding?  This recipe is a highly nutritious and energizing way to start the day or get through an afternoon slump.  The flavors and texture are very close to real chocolate pudding so you really feel like you are eating a treat when this hits your mouth. Chia seeds are a low calorie, nutrient dense superfood that offers a great source of fiber, healthy omega 3 fats, and protein and when allowed to set overnight in liquid, they will absorb the liquid and expand into a pudding like consistency. Because chia seeds are so high in fiber and protein, just one serving will really work to stabilize your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling fuller longer. 

In this recipe, I've combined chia with Maca, another powerful superfood, known for it's energy boosting benefits. To learn more about Maca, click here for our 5 Health Benefits of Maca Root post.  So, if you are in a need of an energy lift (and who isn't these days really?!), without a caffeine crash later in the day,  this is a great non-caffeinated way to go. In fact, the combination of Chia and Maca are both so energizing that I'd recommend avoiding eating this pudding within 5 hours of bedtime as you could find yourself a bit restless. Keep this in mind when giving it to your kiddos:)


Chocolate-Maca Chia Pudding (PRINT RECIPE)
Serves 2

Ingredients:
2 cups milk of choice (I like to use almond or coconut milk here)
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup , agave, or dark liquid stevia to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1-2 teaspoons maca powder (optional)**
6 tablespoons chia seeds

Optional Toppings:
Shredded coconut or coconut flakes
Fresh berries
Sliced banana

Directions:

1. Combine milk, maple syrup, cocoa powder, and maca powder in a small bowl and whisk vigorously until well combined and smooth. 
2. Place chia seeds in a bowl or large mason jar and pour almond milk mixture on top, then stir well. 
3. Allow mixture to sit for 1 minute and stir again, then let it sit for 10 minutes and give it one more good stir.
4. Cover bowl with plastic wrap or seal mason jar with lid and place pudding in the fridge to set overnight or for at least 3-5 hours.  
5. Enjoy pudding by itself or with desired toppings.

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Alternatively, you could add the ingredients to a blender, blend on high for 30 seconds, then pour into a container, cover and place in the fridge to set. Your choice. Sometimes I like the smoother texture of blended:)

This keeps well in the fridge for about 4 days. Just add your favorite fresh toppings and eat! Hope you enjoy it as much I do! Happy eating! 

**Maca root is not recommended for kids, pregnant women, anyone with a hormone dependent cancer, or women in hormone replacement therapy unless otherwise directed by a treating physician. For more information on maca, check out our blog: 5 health benefits of maca powder.

~Billie