Description
This Chocolate and Salted Date Caramel Chia Pudding is a luscious, nutrient-packed dessert or breakfast option combining the rich flavors of cocoa and naturally sweetened date caramel. The creamy chia pudding pairs perfectly with a homemade salted date caramel sauce, creating a wholesome treat that is both dairy-free and naturally sweetened.
Ingredients
Chocolate Chia Pudding
- 1 cup (250ml) almond milk
- 4 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
Salted Date Caramel
- 150 g (1 cup) pitted dates
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) hot water
- 2 tbsp almond milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings
- Shaved chocolate
- Hazelnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Chia Pudding: In a bowl, stir the cocoa powder with a small portion of almond milk until you achieve a smooth paste. Add the remaining almond milk, maple syrup or honey, and chia seeds. Mix well, then let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir again thoroughly to remove any lumps, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight to allow the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and thicken the pudding.
- Make the Salted Date Caramel: Place the pitted dates in a bowl and soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to soften. Transfer the soaked dates along with the soaking water, almond milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt if needed to balance the sweetness.
- Assemble to Serve: Spoon the chilled chocolate chia pudding into serving glasses or bowls. Generously top each serving with the salted date caramel. Optionally, garnish with shaved chocolate and hazelnuts for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this decadent yet healthy treat.
Notes
- Soaking chia seeds overnight improves texture and digestibility.
- Use maple syrup or honey according to your dietary preference; honey is not vegan.
- Adjust the amount of salt in the date caramel to balance sweetness to your taste.
- For a smoother caramel, ensure dates are fully softened before blending.
- This pudding can be made vegan if maple syrup is chosen instead of honey.
- Store leftover chia pudding and caramel separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion