Cocoa Hazelnut Chia Pudding (Printable Version)

Rich chocolate pudding with toasted hazelnuts, vanilla, and chia. A luscious plant-based treat.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
02 - 1/3 cup chia seeds
03 - 1/3 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
04 - 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
06 - 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Optional Toppings

08 - 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts
09 - 2 tablespoons dairy-free chocolate shavings
10 - Fresh berries

# How to Make It:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, chia seeds, chopped hazelnuts, and salt until evenly distributed.
02 - Pour in the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and no cocoa lumps remain.
03 - Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to begin absorbing the liquid, then whisk again thoroughly to break up any clumps.
04 - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the pudding reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
05 - Stir the chilled pudding well to redistribute any settled ingredients. Spoon into individual serving bowls or jars.
06 - Top with extra chopped hazelnuts, dairy-free chocolate shavings, or fresh berries as desired. Serve chilled.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes like dessert but powers you through the morning with protein and healthy fats
  • The texture transformation from liquid to pudding feels like kitchen magic every single time
02 -
  • Blending before refrigerating creates a completely silky, mousse-like texture if you want to feel fancy
  • The pudding keeps for five days, so I always make double and pretend I meal planned intentionally
03 -
  • Toast extra hazelnuts while you're at it for topping and snacking purposes
  • Use a jar with a tight lid and shake it occasionally during chilling for extra smooth results