Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding

Name: Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chia seeds; 2 cups almond milk; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, sliced; Dark chocolate shavings; Mint leaves (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding! Combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing taste of strawberries creates a delightful dessert. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple and healthy it was. The chia seeds not only give the pudding its unique texture, but they're also packed with nutrients. This dessert is perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth while still being nutritious, making it a go-to treat any time of the day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:46:28.872Z

During the summer, I love making refreshing desserts that are both indulgent and healthy. This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding quickly became my favorite because of how versatile it is. I can easily switch up the fruit or add different toppings based on what I have at home. The key is to let the chia seeds soak long enough to absorb the almond milk, creating that creamy texture that makes this dish a winner.

One tip that I've found helpful is to use high-quality cocoa powder. It truly makes a difference in the overall flavor of the pudding. It's surprising how a little quality can elevate a simple dish. Plus, serving it in beautiful jars makes it look just as appealing as it tastes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Healthy dessert that's packed with nutrients from chia seeds
Perfect for breakfast or a light evening treat

      

Chia Seeds: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Chia seeds are the backbone of this pudding, not just for their unique texture but for their impressive health benefits. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, which can help keep you feeling full longer. When soaked in almond milk, they expand and create a gel-like substance, adding creaminess to the pudding without the need for dairy. This makes chia seeds an excellent choice for a nutritious dessert that aligns with plant-based diets.

To achieve the right consistency, ensure you allow enough time for the chia seeds to absorb the liquid. A minimum of 2 hours is recommended, but for the best texture, I suggest an overnight soak in the refrigerator. This allows them to fully plump up, creating a luxurious and satisfying pudding base. If you find your pudding is too thin, adding a bit more chia seeds can help thicken it to your desired consistency.

Elevate Your Toppings

The toppings are where you can truly get creative with this recipe! While fresh strawberries and dark chocolate shavings are delightful, consider experimenting with other fruits like raspberries or even banana slices. Each fruit brings a different flavor and texture, so feel free to mix and match based on what's in season or your personal preference. You might even try a sprinkle of crushed nuts for an added crunch.

For a gourmet touch, drizzle some additional melted dark chocolate over the top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate flavor. If you want to reduce sugar, opt for unsweetened dark chocolate that balances the sweetness of the pudding and strawberries while keeping it indulgently rich.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Chia Pudding is its make-ahead capabilities. You can prepare the chia pudding up to three days in advance, keeping it tightly covered in the refrigerator. This makes it perfect for meal prep — just portion it into jars for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack. When you're ready to serve, add your toppings fresh to ensure they maintain their texture and flavor.

If you want to scale up this recipe for a gathering, simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same soaking time. With larger batches, dividing the chia seed mixture into smaller containers can facilitate quicker serving and easier storage. Be mindful, though, that ingredient ratios remain the same to ensure each portion maintains the desired creaminess.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

1/2 cup chia seeds
2 cups almond milk
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Dark chocolate shavings
Mint leaves (optional)

Mix well and let sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Instructions

Prepare the Chia Pudding

In a medium bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until well mixed, ensuring there are no clumps of cocoa powder.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.

Serve the Pudding

Once the chia pudding has thickened, spoon it into serving bowls or jars. Top with fresh strawberries and dark chocolate shavings.

Garnish

Optional: Add mint leaves for an added fresh flavor and a pop of color.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious treat!

Pro Tips

For added richness, try using coconut milk instead of almond milk. Also, feel free to experiment with different toppings like nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Common Troubleshooting

If you notice that your chia pudding isn't thickening as expected, it could be due to insufficient soaking time or not enough chia seeds. Make sure to allow at least 2 hours for the seeds to absorb the moisture properly. If you've already waited, stirring in another tablespoon or two of chia seeds can rectify the situation. Allow it to sit for an additional 30 minutes after making that adjustment.

Another common issue is clumping, where the cocoa powder forms lumps. To avoid this, whisk the cocoa powder into the almond milk before adding the chia seeds. This ensures that it mixes in smoothly, creating a more homogenous pudding without any bitter bites of cocoa.

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch up the flavor profile by trying different types of milk. While almond milk is a fantastic option, you could also use coconut milk for a tropical twist or oat milk for a creamier texture. Keep in mind that different milks may alter the sweetness and consistency, so adjust accordingly with sweeteners if needed.

For those who enjoy a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the chocolate mix. These complementary flavors can elevate the overall profile of your pudding, introducing warming notes that pair beautifully with the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

While this pudding is delicious on its own, consider pairing it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an added layer of creaminess and protein. The tartness of the yogurt contrasts nicely with the rich chocolate-chia base and sweet strawberries, creating a well-rounded dessert experience. Plus, it adds a probiotic boost!

Another great serving suggestion is to use this pudding as a filling for crepes or pancakes. Spread it on warm crepes, top with additional strawberries, and a drizzle of chocolate for a brunch treat that feels indulgent yet remains healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different milk besides almond milk?

Yes, any plant-based milk like coconut, soy, or oat milk would work well.

→ How long do I need to let the pudding set?

For the best texture, let it set for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally vegan-friendly.

→ What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a similar sweetness.