If you’re a fan of chocolate with a twist—or love the rich, citrusy combo found in chocolate orange truffles—you’re going to fall for this Chocolate Orange Chia Seed Pudding.
It’s silky, satisfying, bursting with bold flavor, and packed with nutrition. Plus, it’s the kind of make-ahead breakfast or snack that feels like dessert but fuels you like a superfood.
A Bold and Balanced Duo
This Chocolate Orange Chia Pudding transforms a bold flavor combo into a nourishing treat. Made with chia seeds, cocoa, and fresh orange juice and zest, it’s creamy, citrusy, and rich in fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein.
Naturally dairy- and gluten-free, it’s perfect for meal prep and makes a satisfying breakfast, snack, or post-workout boost with a dessert-like twist.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Orange segments
- Orange zest curls
- Mini dark chocolate chips or shavings
- Toasted nuts or coconut
- Whipped coconut cream
Pro Tips
- Use fresh orange juice and zest – Bottled juice won’t give the same bold, fragrant citrus flavor.
- Whisk cocoa separately first – Mix cocoa with a few spoonfuls of milk before combining to avoid clumps.
- Stir twice – Stir once after mixing, then again after 10–15 minutes to prevent chia clumping.
- Chill overnight – This gives the pudding a smooth, thick, creamy texture that’s just right.
- Top with zest and chocolate last – To keep toppings vibrant and crisp, add them just before eating.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or airtight container
- Microplane or citrus zester
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Refrigerator
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free or not? Use any milk you like: oat, soy, cow’s milk, or coconut for a richer taste.
- No maple syrup? Sub with agave, date syrup, or honey (if not vegan).
- No fresh orange? Use a few drops of food-grade orange extract—but fresh zest is always better.
- Want more protein? Stir in a scoop of chocolate protein powder or 1/4 cup Greek-style plant-based yogurt.
- Texture tip: Prefer smooth pudding? Blend it after soaking for a mousse-like texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
Chocolate orange chia pudding is perfect for batch prep. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Portion into individual jars or containers for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
To prep in bulk, mix the base in a large bowl and divide evenly. Store toppings separately until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
This recipe also freezes well—store in silicone molds or freezer-safe jars and thaw overnight.
How to Make Chocolate Orange Chia Seed Pudding
1. Zest and Juice the Orange
Wash and zest the orange using a microplane. Then, cut it in half and squeeze out the juice, measuring about 2 tablespoons.
2. Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl or jar, whisk together the almond milk, orange juice, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and orange zest.
3. Add Cocoa and Chia
In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with a few spoonfuls of the milk mixture until smooth. Then stir into the rest of the wet ingredients. Add the chia seeds and mix thoroughly.
4. Let Sit and Stir Again
Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes. Stir again to break up clumps. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Top and Serve
When ready to serve, give it a good stir. Top with orange slices, zest, chocolate chips, or your favorite extras.
Leftovers and Storage
Store chia pudding in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It may thicken over time—just stir in a splash of milk before serving to loosen the texture.
Toppings should be added fresh before serving to keep them from getting soggy or fading in color.
You can also freeze individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy, prep-ahead option.
A Zesty, Chocolatey Twist on a Classic
This Chocolate Orange Chia Seed Pudding proves that you can enjoy dessert-inspired flavors while sticking to your healthy eating goals.
It’s rich, citrusy, energizing, and so satisfying—perfect for when you want something indulgent but nourishing.
Try it this week and enjoy the bright, bold flavors with every spoonful. I’d love to hear how you topped yours—did you go with chocolate chips, orange slices, or maybe coconut flakes? Leave a comment and let’s inspire each other’s chia creations!
