If you’re craving a dessert that’s both indulgent and nourishing, you have to try this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe. It blends the luscious richness of cocoa and dark chocolate with the fresh sweetness of strawberries, all while packing a nutritious punch thanks to chia seeds. This pudding is creamy, satisfying, and makes for a perfect snack or a guilt-free treat that feels like a little celebration in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe starts with just a handful of simple but powerful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from adding creaminess and natural sweetness to lending that irresistible chocolate flavor and fresh fruit brightness.
- 1 cup almond milk: A smooth, dairy-free base that keeps the pudding light and creamy.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds: These tiny seeds soak up the liquid and create the perfect pudding texture packed with fiber and omega-3s.
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor with a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: A natural sweetener that brings warmth and depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a subtle, fragrant note.
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced: Fresh and juicy, they add a naturally sweet, vibrant topping.
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted: For drizzling over the top, contributing that luscious, slightly bitter chocolate finish.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Ingredients
Start by whisking together almond milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a bowl. This initial mixing ensures all the ingredients come together harmoniously while the chia seeds begin absorbing the liquid to set the pudding’s creamy texture.
Step 2: Let It Rest and Whisk Again
After letting the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, whisk it again. This simple step prevents any clumps of chia seeds and cocoa from forming, ensuring your pudding will have a smooth and even consistency without any surprises.
Step 3: Refrigerate to Thicken
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time lets the chia seeds swell fully and transform the mixture into a perfectly thick, spoonable pudding that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Step 4: Assemble and Garnish
Once the pudding is set, spoon it into your favorite serving glasses or bowls. Top with the sliced strawberries and a drizzle of the melted dark chocolate. The combination of fresh fruit and rich chocolate adds both color and an extra layer of flavor that makes this pudding truly memorable.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
While sliced strawberries and melted dark chocolate are classic, you can elevate the look and taste with extras like chopped nuts for crunch, a sprinkle of shredded coconut for tropical flair, or a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of herbal freshness.
Side Dishes
Serve your pudding alongside a warm cup of herbal tea or a frothy latte to balance the cool creaminess. For brunch, pair it with light whole-grain toast or a fresh fruit salad to keep the meal refreshing and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the pudding with granola and berries in a parfait glass for a stunning breakfast or dessert presentation. Alternatively, use small mason jars for individual servings that are perfect for sharing or gifting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chia seeds continue to absorb moisture, so the texture might thicken slightly—just stir in a splash of almond milk to loosen it up before serving.
Freezing
This pudding does not freeze well due to the chia seeds’ gel-like texture, which can become grainy or watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled pudding, reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer it a bit warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or add a little warm milk when stirring before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of milk?
Absolutely! While almond milk is a light, nutty choice, you can substitute with coconut milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based or dairy milk to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the entire Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe is vegan, especially when using maple syrup and plant-based milk.
How long does the pudding last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this pudding stays fresh for about 3 days. The flavor can even deepen as it rests!
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Yes, you can replace maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol, though the flavor profile may vary slightly.
What is the best type of chocolate to use?
Using dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content works beautifully here, providing a rich, less sweet contrast to the fresh strawberries and creamy pudding.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe that makes it a favorite in my kitchen time and time again. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a dessert that feels luxurious and indulgent, yet aligns with your healthy eating goals. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s not just a pudding, but a little moment of joy you can savor any time you want.
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding is a delicious and nutritious dessert or breakfast option that combines creamy almond milk and chia seeds with rich cocoa powder, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and topped with fresh strawberries and melted dark chocolate for an indulgent yet healthy treat.
Ingredients
Chia Pudding Base
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Rest and Whisk: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow chia seeds to start absorbing liquid, then whisk again to prevent clumping and ensure even pudding consistency.
- Refrigerate to Thicken: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight so the pudding thickens to the desired creamy texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the pudding has set, spoon it into serving glasses or bowls and top with sliced strawberries and a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a decadent finishing touch.
Notes
- Use unsweetened almond milk to control sugar content.
- For a nuttier flavor, substitute almond milk with coconut or oat milk.
- Letting the chia pudding sit overnight improves texture and flavor.
- Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa is recommended for a rich taste.
- This pudding can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
