Chocolate Almond Coconut Chia Cream (Printable)

Creamy chocolate chia pudding layered with berries, almonds, and coconut for a nourishing treat.

# List of ingredients:

→ Chia Cream Base

01 - 1/2 cup chia seeds
02 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
03 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 2 scoops chocolate or vanilla protein powder
05 - 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Berry Layer

08 - 1 cup mixed fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

→ Toppings

11 - 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
12 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
13 - Extra fresh berries for garnish
14 - Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and no dry pockets remain. Allow the mixture to rest for 10 minutes, then whisk a second time to break up any clumps that have begun to form.
02 - Cover the bowl tightly and transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for a minimum of 2 hours or up to overnight, until the chia seeds have absorbed the liquid and the mixture has thickened to a rich, pudding-like consistency.
03 - In a separate bowl, gently toss the mixed fresh berries with the lemon juice and maple syrup. Toss lightly to coat evenly without crushing the fruit. Set aside and let the flavors meld at room temperature while the chia cream finishes setting.
04 - Remove the chia cream from the refrigerator and give it a thorough stir to ensure a uniform, creamy texture. Spoon the mixture into serving glasses or bowls, alternating layers of chocolate chia cream with spoonfuls of the macerated berries. Repeat until all components are evenly distributed among four servings.
05 - Finish each serving with a generous sprinkle of shredded coconut, toasted almond slices, additional fresh berries, and dark chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately while the toppings retain their crunch.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes like dessert but powers you through a morning workout or afternoon slump
  • The texture contrast between creamy chia, juicy berries, and crunchy almonds is addictive
02 -
  • The second whisk after ten minutes is nonnegotiable unless you want weird chia clumps in your pudding
  • Making this the night before yields the best texture and makes mornings ridiculously easy
03 -
  • Toast your almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, watching closely so they do not burn
  • Use the back of a spoon to press chocolate shavings onto the glass sides for that restaurant dessert look

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