Strawberry Chocolate Chia Pudding

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Chia Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup almond milk; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 tablespoon dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Chocolate Chia Pudding! It’s the perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberry flavor, creating a delightful treat that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrition. Whenever I need a quick dessert or a healthy breakfast option, I turn to this recipe. Chia seeds work their magic by absorbing the almond milk and cocoa, transforming into a creamy consistency that is hard to resist. It’s a dish that pleases not just the palate but also the eyes with its vibrant colors.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:49:28.031Z

When I first experimented with chia pudding, I was astonished by how something so simple could yield such delightful results. The combination of strawberries and chocolate seemed like a bold move, but the flavors blended beautifully, providing not only texture but also amazing health benefits.

Over the years, I’ve perfected the timing and ratios to achieve the ideal pudding consistency. A little patience plays a key role; letting it sit for a few hours allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid fully, creating a luscious dessert. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect harmony of chocolate and fresh strawberries
Nutritious and satisfying for any time of day
Easily customizable with your favorite fruits and toppings

      

Mastering the Chia Pudding Texture

The key to achieving the perfect chia pudding texture lies in the ratio of chia seeds to liquid. For this recipe, using 1/4 cup of chia seeds to 1 cup of almond milk strikes an ideal balance. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and expand, creating a creamy, thick consistency that mimics traditional pudding. Be sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly to avoid any clumps of seeds—this ensures an even distribution and a smoother final product.

Letting the mixture sit in the refrigerator is crucial for optimal texture. While 4 hours can produce a good result, allowing it to chill overnight enhances the creaminess significantly as the seeds continue to swell and absorb moisture. After this time, you’ll notice the pudding should have a glossy appearance, with individual chia seeds clearly visible but well-integrated, making each spoonful a delightful treat.

Selecting and Preparing Strawberries

When it comes to toppings, the quality of your strawberries can elevate the whole dish. Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor, and opt for organic if possible. A simple wash and slicing them just before serving preserves their freshness and bright color. For an extra touch, consider macerating the strawberries with a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes; this will enhance their sweetness and create a lovely syrupy glaze.

If strawberries are out of season, feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a different flavor profile. The tartness of berries pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate, but you might want to adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup to balance the flavors when using sweeter fruits.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

1 cup almond milk
1/4 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tablespoon dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Combine all of these ingredients for a delicious and nutritious treat!

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base

In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Let It Sit

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Serve the Pudding

Once set, stir the pudding to combine. Serve it in bowls topped with fresh strawberries and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Chia Pudding!

Pro Tips

For added nutrition, try mixing in some nut butter for a creamier texture or top with your favorite nuts for crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives to almond milk, coconut milk works beautifully, adding a unique tropical flavor that complements the cocoa. For those avoiding sweeteners, you could use a ripe banana instead of maple syrup. Simply blend it into the almond milk before mixing it with the chia seeds for a naturally sweetened pudding.

For a lower-calorie version, consider using unsweetened almond milk and reducing the amount of cocoa powder. This will still give you a chocolatey flavor without the added calories, and you can compensate with additional fruit toppings or a dash of cinnamon for a warm, inviting flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Chocolate Chia Pudding is ideal for meal prep; you can make it up to three days in advance. Just ensure you store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you notice the pudding thickening too much after a day or two, simply stir in a little almond milk to regain that creamy consistency before serving.

Serving it in individual jars or cups not only makes for a charming presentation but also allows for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or desserts. Feel free to layer the pudding with additional ingredients like granola or nuts in these jars for extra texture and flavor, making each bite an exciting experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk with coconut milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk.

→ How long can I store the chia pudding?

Chia pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup as a sweetener.

→ What can I substitute for cocoa powder?

You can use carob powder for a caffeine-free alternative, although the flavor will be slightly different.