Guys, I'm just pudding it out there that this chocolate cinnamon chia seed pudding is the bomb. Dot com. Yeah, yeah, chia seed pudding had its big moment cool, like, two years ago. But I maintain it's a healthy and yummy staple that everyone should make every month!
The key to creamy chocolate cinnamon chia seed pudding
It's all about the proper liquid to chia ratio. Also, using a creamy milk, such as whole milk, or a heavy bodied flax milk or almond milk if you want dairy-free. We buy our whole milk from Costco since it's the best price for the best quality.
This recipe was actually inspired by the sample gal at Costco. She was handing out samples for chia seeds in cranberry juice, and we struck up a conversation about the awesomeness of chia. Five minutes later, I left with an arsenal of chia knowledge, a chocolate pudding recipe, and a couple extra samples.
Moral of the story: become friends with the sample people. You will always leave with a hefty serving, which will save you a trip to the food court. (My go-to is a slice of combo.)
Health benefits of chia seeds
I've been regularly consuming chia seeds daily for over four years now. They are stupidly good for you! And an easy way to get the following nutritious benefits:
- They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which equals healthy brain and reduced risk for heart disease and cancer. Sign me up.
- One word: FIBER. Want to stay regular? Take a serving of chia seeds every day, whether it's in this pudding for breakfast, or mixed in your morning green smoothie. You will feel like a new person!
- Chia seeds are an excellent plant-based source of protein with 4 grams of protein in each 1 ounce serving.
As I mentioned, I made this chocolate cinnamon chia seed pudding with whole milk for extra protein, but it's just as delicious with any plant-based milk if you are looking for a dairy-free treat. It is also refined sugar-free! Yippee!
Use chia seeds in vegan baking
Chia seeds make a great egg substitute for vegan baking! You simply grind the seeds in a food processor or blender and add 1 tablespoon of the chia seed meal to 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until it is gelatinous. (Isn't that such a marvelous word?)
Now, go make this chocolate cinnamon chia seed pudding! Your hungry stomach will thank you every morning. The recipe is below. Enjoy!
Chocolate Cinnamon Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 cups organic whole milk or almond milk for vegan/dairy-free option
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chia seeds
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk and maple syrup. Add in the cocoa powder and cinnamon, and whisk until smooth and foamy. Add in the vanilla and chia seeds last and give it a good stir.
- Seal the bowl and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or overnight. Make sure to stir it once in the middle of setting up to mix any chia seeds and that fall to the bottom. Once it is ready, stir again to mix together flavors and serve cold. Add fresh berries or whipped cream for an additional tasty topping. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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