Recipe SANTA BARBARA CHOCOLATE CHIA PUDDING:
A Simple and Nourishing Dessert
While offering nutrient-rich components, chocolate chia pudding provides a smooth, gratifying texture. This simple dessert offers a no-bake option for anyone looking for something chocolatey without extra fillers and complements plant-based diets well.
At Santa Barbara Chocolate, we’ve created a version of chocolate chia pudding using clean, high-flavanol cocoa powder and our ethically sourced dark chocolate. The result is a dessert that’s naturally rich in flavor and made with purpose-driven ingredients.
Whether you’re prepping for a family snack, a breakfast option, or a dinner party treat, this pudding can be prepared in minutes and stored for the next day.
Why Use High-Quality Chocolate in Chia Pudding?
Chocolate is a common ingredient in many desserts, but its flavor and nutritional content can change dramatically during processing. A more authentic and well-rounded flavor can be achieved by using High Flavanol Cocoa Powder or 100% Pure Cacao Chocolate, according to Santa Barbara Chocolate.
The cocoa powder used in this recipe contains a higher level of naturally occurring polyphenols compared to heavily processed alternatives. That means a stronger cocoa taste, deeper color, and a better pairing with subtle ingredients like almond or coconut milk.
Our dark chocolate chopped chips and cacao nibs also add a textured bite, offering both contrast and depth to the pudding without added oils or artificial flavoring.
Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe
Serves: 2 (Double quantity for larger batches)
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (from a can)
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup high-quality cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cacao nibs
- 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and coconut or almond milk should all be mixed together in a medium bowl. Mix until the cocoa powder is completely gone and the combination is well blended.
- Allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes. Stir again to break up any clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- After chilling, stir in cacao nibs and chopped dark chocolate chips.
- Chill before serving. Optional toppings are shredded coconut, roasted almonds, or extra dark chocolate chips.
The combination can be made the night before and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three days.
A Look at the Core Ingredients
Chia Seeds
These small seeds are known for their fiber content and ability to absorb liquid, leading to a pudding-like texture. They serve as a source of omega-3 fatty acids derived from plants.
Coconut and Almond Milk
These dairy-free milks offer mild flavor and creaminess. While almond milk keeps a light texture, full-fat coconut milk gives the pudding body.
Cocoa Powder and Cacao Nibs
Cocoa powder is responsible for the chocolate flavor, and the nibs contribute a slightly bitter, crunchy contrast. Santa Barbara Chocolate's High Flavanol Cocoa Powder guarantees that the rich chocolate note stays front and center.
Maple Syrup
This natural sweetener complements the cocoa’s intensity without overwhelming it. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a refined sugar alternative.
Dark Chocolate Chips
Our bulk dark chocolate chips are made with minimal ingredients and no added lecithin. Once chopped and folded into the pudding, they melt slightly and add pockets of smooth texture.
Serving Ideas and Variations
Chocolate chia pudding is highly adaptable. You can make parfaits with it, smoothie bowls with it as a base, or frozen dessert cups with it. Here are some ideas for toppings:
- Sliced bananas or strawberries
- Coconut flakes or toasted nuts
- Santa Barbara Chocolate shavings or ganache drizzle
For added crunch, try layering the pudding with granola or oat clusters. A little espresso powder or cinnamon can be mixed into the foundation before cooling for those looking for a richer taste.
Wholesome Chocolate Recipes for Everyday Use
At Santa Barbara Chocolate, we encourage using chocolate in functional, satisfying ways. Recipes like chocolate chia pudding provide an option that’s easy to prepare and made with ingredients that support both flavor and simplicity.
Whether you're looking for organic cocoa powder, vegan chocolate chips, or 100% cacao, our wholesale chocolate supplies have you covered. All of our products, including wholesale and bulk options for companies and individuals, are displayed online.
For more chocolate-based recipes, visit our blog or reach out to our team with questions about product use, sourcing, or storage.