dark cocoa powder Archives • A Sweet Pea Chef

Rich in fiber and tastes like Christmas morning, this Mint Chocolate Chia Pudding is so rich, you wouldn’t think it’s good for you. But think again! This post shares how to make it healthy and extra delicious. So I’m gonna just come right out and say that I am in love with this dark chocolate mint chia pudding. Like in LOVE love. It’s that good. I know I’ve spoken pretty highly about chocolate chia pudding before. But then I added mint. Best decision evah! It’s also crazy high in fiber and protein, yet relatively low in calories — making it a great breakfast, snack, or dessert. Trust me, you’re gonna want this baby often (and then some). Texture-wise, it's like tapioca and quinoa had a baby. If that just totally got you excited about trying chia pudding, awesome. If that totally grossed you out because you can’t stand the idea of those textures, then I have a solution for you! Just blend the recipe in a blender to make it as smooth as “real” pudding. Everyone’s a winner here, folks. Read on to get all the details you need to create this awesome pudding. What Is In This Mint Chocolate Chia Pudding? With only 5 simple and healthy ingredients, you can whip up this heavenly pudding in no time. Here are the winning ingredients behind this decadent treat: Chia seeds: Filling, rich in fiber and protein, this superfood is not to be overlooked. Pure maple syrup: My fave kind of clean sweetener which I love adding to my healthy breakfasts and desserts. Plus, it provides an added dose of antioxidants. Peppermint extract: This simple addition is what lifts the recipe to a refreshing realm of minty joy. Cocoa powder: A healthy chocolatey touch with anti-inflammatory properties. Unsweetened almond milk: A lot of my recipes benefit from almond milk. It has Vitamin E and is usually enriched with protein, calcium, and Vitamin D. Is Chia Pudding Actually Good For You? Yes, chia seeds are good for you which is why they’re even considered a superfood. They’re packed with essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, iron, and calcium. In fact, just two tablespoons of these tiny seeds have almost 11 grams of fiber (about 40 percent of the recommended daily intake). They also contain an impressive 4 grams of protein. Want to know more about what makes this crazy awesome seed a superfood? Check out my post on 11 Crazy Awesome Benefits of Chia Seeds! Can You Lose Weight Eating Chia Pudding? Yes, chia seeds are great for weight loss diets because they are high in fiber and protein. Fiber and protein can keep you full, suppress your appetite, and leave you satisfied. This helps prevent you from snacking on unhealthy food/ keeps your cravings at bay. As chia seeds are enriched with fiber, this is also great for your gut and digestion (which can further aid in weight loss). If you want to learn more about the best seeds for weight loss, check out this post. Is Chia Pudding Or Oatmeal Healthier? Both chia pudding and oatmeal get rave reviews for their health benefits. Each is loaded with calcium, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, iron, potassium, and protein. But let's take a closer look. Here are their differences in nutritional value: Oatmeal: Contains more Vitamin B6Heavier in proteinWay higher in carbs Lower in fat Chia seeds: Are richer in niacin Are much higher in dietary fiber (251% more than oatmeal) Both chia seeds and oatmeal make amazing breakfast options when added to a balanced, clean diet. It’s just that chia seeds probably make an even lower-calorie option (when made into a pudding) compared to oatmeal. And while we’re at it, if you’re a breakfast person just like me, try my Strawberry Chia Jam! Do Chia Seeds Go Bad? The shelf life of chia seeds are usually set at 2 years when stored properly in an airtight container in your pantry. If you come across a smell that’s quite off (instead of their mildly nutty scent) just throw them out to be safe. Although eating a bad batch of chia seeds won’t likely make you too sick, your stomach may raise its eyebrows (metaphorically speaking), so it’s best to err on the side of caution. Their nutritional value will have lessened anyway. Are Chia Seeds A Protein Or Carb? Chia seeds are actually unprocessed whole grains in the form of — well — seeds. And while they’re considered a grain, they pack 10 grams of carbs in two tablespoons. It may seem like a high amount of carbohydrates but the seed’s carbs come in the form of fiber. So this makes it a viable option for anyone looking to go on a low-carb plan. Around two tablespoons of chia seeds contain 4 grams of protein, 11 grams of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Looking for more healthy and low-carb snacks? Try my Strawberry Salad with Chia Seed Vinaigrette. This is a fam favorite. How To Make Mint Chocolate Chia Pudding? It only takes 5 mins to prep this chia pudding. Super easy. Here’s how: Combine the chia seeds, pure maple syrup, peppermint extract, dark cocoa powder, and unsweetened almond milk in a mason jar or sealable container. Stir to combine, and then seal. Next, place it in the fridge for at least 3 to 4 hours (but preferable overnight). For best results, give it a quick stir 30 minutes in. Once it’s out of the fridge, it's ready! Just give it a quick stir and enjoy. Note: Chia seeds thicken in liquid so they’re great for getting that creamy pudding-like texture even when you use dairy-free milk. Don’t like the texture of the seeds? If you want super smooth pudding, just blend everything together before placing it in the fridge to soak. How Long Does Chia Pudding Last In The Fridge? Chia pudding can last around 4 to 5 days in the fridge. To store properly, just place it in an airtight container and you’re good to go! It’s so easy to prep and make ahead in batches (just like overnight oats). More Tasty Chia Pudding Recipes Here are some of my fave chia pudding recipes for you to try, now that you’re on the chia pudding bandwagon. Welcome, BTW: Chocolate Chia PuddingMatcha Chia PuddingBanana Chia Pudding This post contains affiliate links for products I use regularly and highly recommend. Dark Chocolate Mint Chia Pudding Chocolate and mint combine for all the goodness imaginable with this dark chocolate mint chia pudding recipe. 1/4 cup chia seeds1 tbsp pure maple syrup1/8 tsp peppermint extract1/2 tbsp cocoa powder3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk Combine the chia seeds, pure maple syrup, peppermint extract, dark cocoa powder, and unsweetened almond milk in a sealable container or mason jar.Stir to combine, then seal.Place in in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours, preferably overnight.The chia pudding is ready to eat when you take it out of the fridge - just give it a stir and you're set.Will last in fridge for up to 4-5 days. Breakfast, Chia Pudding, Clean, gluten free, HealthyEasymint chocolate chia pudding This post contains affiliate links for products I use regularly and highly recommend.