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Chocolate banana chia pudding in a glass topped with fresh banana slices, cacao nibs, and goji berries.
Daniel

Chocolate Banana Chia Pudding

Creamy, protein-packed pudding that tastes like dessert but works for breakfast - no cooking required.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pudding Base
  • 0.5 cup chia seeds black or white
  • 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Dutch-processed for smoother flavor
  • 2 cup whole milk or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free
  • 3 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.25 tsp kosher salt
For Assembly
  • 2 medium ripe bananas speckled and soft, divided
  • 0.5 cup Greek yogurt optional, for layering
  • 2 tbsp cocoa nibs or shaved dark chocolate for topping

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Four 8-oz jars or containers with lids

Method
 

Make the Pudding
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together chia seeds, cocoa powder, and salt until no cocoa lumps remain. This prevents clumping when you add liquid.
  2. Add milk, maple syrup, and vanilla. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to fully incorporate. The mixture will look thin - this is correct.
  3. Let sit 5 minutes, then whisk again to break up any clumps forming on the bottom. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, until thickened to a pudding consistency.
Prep bananas
  1. Peel one banana and mash thoroughly with a fork until mostly smooth with small lumps. Fold into the chilled pudding for natural sweetness and body.
  2. Just before serving, slice the remaining banana into coins. Layer pudding, banana slices, and yogurt (if using) in jars. Top with cocoa nibs.

Notes

For the creamiest texture, use whole milk or coconut milk - skim milk makes a thinner pudding. The pudding keeps 5 days refrigerated; add fresh banana slices only when serving to prevent browning. For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons almond butter when folding in the mashed banana.