Vegan Chocolate Chia Pudding

vegan chocolate chia pudding

http://namelymarly.com/vegan-chocolate-chia-pudding/

I made myself a little chocolatey treat for myself on Mother's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 cup plant-based milk sugar-free
• ⅓ cup chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• ½ cup pitted dates softened (I used 2 1/2 tablespoons of maple syrup instead)
• Topping: 2 teaspoons dairy-free chocolate chips chopped
• Additional Toppings: Granola, Sliced Almonds, Coconut Slivers and Coconut Whipped Cream

Instructions

1. Mix ingredients in a food processor bowl (I used my Ninja blender) Note: If your dates are not soft, be sure to microwave them for about 30 seconds to soften them. Pulse until the dates are smooth.
2. Cover and refrigerate at least an hour or up to 8 hours. It will thicken more the longer it sits, so if you prefer a firmer pudding, refrigerate overnight.
3. Sprinkle the top with chopped dark chocolate chips and almond slivers before serving. Add additional toppings if you'd like, such as granola or whipped cream.

I really liked this treat. Next time I make it, I will portion this into three servings (instead of two) and I'll go crazy with some toppings.  I think it's nice to have some texture contrast with the creamy pudding.  I am thinking granola, toasted nuts, toasted coconut... crunchy things.  I had bananas but I think strawberries would be good too.  I am looking forward to trying out some other chia pudding recipes as well.