Ah, the cuddly, cozy feeling we get from a warm cup of coffee in the morning, what if I told you that you can enjoy that same sensation in a nutritious, ready-to-eat pudding? Enter Mocha Chia Pudding, a delightful and healthy treat where creamy almond milk meets rich cocoa and bold coffee. Plus, with chia seeds packing a powerful dose of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, this recipe is not just a treat; it’s a smart choice for any meal. Picture sitting down to this silky pudding topped with fluffy almond milk whipped cream, you’re in for a sensory delight!

Mocha Chia Pudding

Print Recipe

Enjoy a nutritious and creamy mocha chia pudding made with almond milk, cocoa, and coffee for a delightful treat.

Author: amanda-miller
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 610 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Refrigeration
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup almond milk
1/4 cup hot water
1 packet instant coffee (0.09 oz)
3 tbsp chia seeds
1.5 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Dissolve the instant coffee in 1/4 cup of hot water. Stir well to combine and avoid any lumps.
Add almond milk to the coffee mixture, stirring gently to mix.
Stir in chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract all at once.
Cover the mixture and set it in the fridge overnight to thicken.
When ready to eat, stir again for a smooth texture, then top with almond milk whipped cream and enjoy!

Notes

For a thicker pudding, add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds. Letting it chill overnight is ideal for the best texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 200
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Why This Mocha Chia Pudding Never Fails

This Mocha Chia Pudding consistently delivers both flavor and nutrition, perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack. The beauty of chia seeds is that they expand and absorb liquid, turning what could be just another messy breakfast into a creamy, decadent dessert-like experience. Even better, this pudding requires minimal effort—just let the fridge do the work overnight while you catch some beauty sleep.

Ingredient Lineup

1/2 cup almond milk: Creamy base that’s dairy-free and full of vitamins.
1/4 cup hot water: Helps dissolve the instant coffee quickly.
1 packet instant coffee (.09 oz): Get that full caffeine kick without brewing a whole pot.
3 tbsp chia seeds: These tiny seeds are powerhouses of fiber and omega-3s.
1.5 tbsp cocoa powder: Rich and chocolatey; opt for unsweetened for a healthier kick.
2 tbsp maple syrup: Sweetness from natural sources; use sugar-free for keto.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, welcoming flavor that rounds out the dish.

Let’s Cook

Dissolve the instant coffee in 1/4 cup of hot water. Stir well to combine and avoid any lumps.
Add almond milk to the coffee mixture, creating a creamy coffee base. Stir gently to mix.
Stir in chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract all at once. This helps the chia seeds distribute evenly.
Once well combined, cover the mixture and set in the fridge overnight. This is where the magic happens—those chia seeds will expand into a delightful pudding.
When ready to eat, stir again to achieve a nice, smooth texture, then top with almond milk whipped cream and enjoy! An expert tip: for fluffier whipped cream, use chilled almond milk and a stand mixer.

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving contains approximately:

Serving Size: Around 1 cup
Calories: 200
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 10g

With chia seeds delivering heart-healthy omega-3s and fiber, this pudding doesn’t just fill you up; it also nourishes your body for the day ahead. It’s truly a win-win!

Table-Ready in Minutes

To serve, simply spoon the pudding into your favorite bowl or glass—a clear dish showcases those beautiful layers and adds to the experience. Pair it with fresh berries for a burst of color and nutrients, or perhaps a sprinkle of nuts for some added crunch. It’s a perfect treat for brunch if you’re entertaining, or an indulgent weekday breakfast that feels a little fancy!

How to Store It Right

This Mocha Chia Pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider putting it in the freezer; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving. A tip for keeping it fresh: always seal it tightly to prevent any unwanted odors from leeching in.

Expert Tips

Consistency Control: If you prefer a thicker pudding, add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds; for a creamier version, reduce the chia seeds slightly.
Chill Out: For best results, let the pudding chill for at least 6 hours prior to serving. Overnight is ideal!
Presentation Matters: Layer the pudding in a glass with whipped cream and berries for a restaurant-quality look.

Flavor Experiments

Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun variations:

Seasonal Twist: Try adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice in the fall for a festive kick.
Gourmet Flavor: Swap out the vanilla extract for hazelnut extract for a nutty, luxurious taste experience.
Playful Option: Stir in a few crushed peppermint candies around the holidays for a refreshing finish.

Learn from My Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls for the best possible pudding:

Skipping Chilling Time: Don’t rush this step. If not chilled adequately, the chia seeds won’t have the time to thicken properly.
Using Non-instant Coffee: Instant coffee dissolves better; regular coffee grounds will leave you with a gritty texture.
Not Stirring Enough: Make sure to stir thoroughly after adding ingredients; a good mix ensures even flavor and texture throughout.

What to Do with Leftovers

Leftover Mocha Chia Pudding can be a delightful starting point for other meals:

Layer It: Use it as a parfait base by layering it with yogurt and fruit for a satisfying breakfast.
Smoothie Boost: Blend it with some banana and spinach for a nutrient-packed smoothie.
Ice Cream Substitute: Freeze into popsicle molds for a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Quick Questions

What can I substitute for almond milk in this recipe? You can use any plant-based milk like oat, coconut, or cashew milk—it’ll still be delicious!

Can I make Mocha Chia Pudding the night before? Absolutely! In fact, that’s the best way to ensure the chia seeds have time to thicken.

Is this chia pudding suitable for kids? Yes! It’s a fun, nutritious treat that many kids enjoy, especially with toppings like fruit or nuts.

Is there caffeine in this pudding? Yes, due to the instant coffee, there is a moderate amount of caffeine, making it a great pick-me-up!

So go on, give this Mocha Chia Pudding a whirl! With every creamy bite, you’ll be reminded that healthy eating doesn’t have to be dull or time-consuming. Enjoy!