Dessert

Creamy Chocolate Orange Chia Pudding Recipe

Byluca Carter November 18, 2025November 18, 2025

Introduction

Imagine a dessert that’s indulgent yet packed with nutrients. The Creamy Chocolate Orange Chia Pudding blends rich chocolate flavor with the bright zest of orange, creating a delicious and easy-to-make treat. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a guilt-free dessert.

A small clear glass jar is filled with a smooth, creamy chocolate mousse that is light brown with tiny dark specks. On top of the mousse is a layer of fine brown cocoa powder, with a bright orange slice placed upright in the center, showing the juicy segments and white rind. The jar is set on a white marbled surface with crumbled chocolate pieces scattered around it. In the background, slightly out of focus, are whole and halved oranges and a blurred glass vase holding green leaves. A wooden spoon lies to the right side near the jar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup chia seeds
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk)

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of one orange

1/4 cup fresh orange juice
A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: dark chocolate shavings, orange slices, or nuts

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the cocoa powder and evenly distribute the chia seeds.
Step 2: Cover the bowl or transfer the mixture into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken into a pudding.
Step 3: Before serving, stir the pudding well to break up any clumps. Spoon it into serving dishes and garnish with optional dark chocolate shavings, orange slices, or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use coconut milk instead of almond milk for a creamier texture and tropical flavor.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of orange extract to enhance the citrus aroma.
For extra sweetness, drizzle additional maple syrup or honey on top before serving.

Try topping with toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.

Storage

Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving, as the mixture may thicken further over time. This pudding can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with smooth, creamy chocolate mousse that takes up most of the space inside. The top layer of the mousse is dusted with a fine layer of cocoa powder, giving it a slightly textured dark brown look. A fresh, bright orange slice is placed vertically on top of the jar, standing out with its vibrant color against the deep brown mousse. The jar sits on a white marbled surface scattered with small crumbs and broken pieces of chocolate. Nearby, there are whole and halved oranges adding a pop of orange color, and part of a wooden spoon lies to the side. In the soft background, a glass vase with green leaves is only faintly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk?

Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, such as coconut, oat, soy, or dairy milk. Just keep the same quantity for consistent texture.

How do I know when the pudding is ready?

The pudding is ready when the chia seeds have absorbed the liquid and the mixture has thickened to a creamy, spoonable consistency, usually after at least 4 hours in the refrigerator.