Chocolate Almond Berry Chia Cream (Printable)
Protein-packed chocolate chia with toasted almonds and mixed berries, chilled for a creamy breakfast or dessert.
# List of ingredients:
→ Chia Pudding Base
01 - 1/2 cup chia seeds
02 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
03 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
05 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - Pinch of sea salt
→ Protein Boost
07 - 2 scoops chocolate or vanilla protein powder (plant-based or whey)
→ Berry Layer
08 - 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
10 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
→ Almond Topping
11 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
→ Additional Garnishes (optional)
12 - Dark chocolate shavings
13 - Fresh mint leaves
# Steps:
01 - In a medium mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together unsweetened almond milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, protein powder, and sea salt until fully blended.
02 - Add chia seeds to the mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure the seeds are evenly dispersed.
03 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, stirring once after 30 minutes to break up any clumps and promote even gelling.
04 - In a small bowl, gently toss together fresh mixed berries, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Refrigerate until needed.
05 - After chilling, stir the chia pudding well to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
06 - In serving glasses or jars, alternate layers of chia pudding mixture with the berry compote for an attractive presentation.
07 - Sprinkle each portion with toasted sliced almonds. Add dark chocolate shavings and fresh mint leaves if desired.
08 - Enjoy immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Best consumed within 2 days.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This is your secret weapon for a grab-and-go breakfast that feels entirely indulgent.
- The combination of chocolate, fresh berries, and crunchy almonds somehow creates the best energy boost for busy days.
02 -
- I once skipped stirring halfway through the soak and wound up with sadly lumpy chia pudding—always stir after 30 minutes.
- Using frozen berries in a pinch gives a great compote effect, but let them thaw so your layers don’t get too runny.
03 -
- Toast almonds just before serving for the absolute best warm, nutty aroma.
- Sift the cocoa powder right into the almond milk to banish lumps from the start—so simple, but makes all the difference.