Breakfast is not only the most important meal of the day but also the best meal of the day, if you ask me! Which is why it is so important to start your day off right by fueling your body with something nutritious but also delicious – like this CHOCOLATE CHIA SEED PUDDING!

Yes, chocolate for breakfast!

CACAO is considered a ‘superfood’ due to the density of essential nutrients packed into this bean. It is full of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, fiber, vitamins and minerals like:

• Calcium
• Sulfur
• Copper
• Iron
• Zinc
• Potassium

For maximum nutrients choose RAW CACAO (before any kind of processing) as some of these nutrients are reduced or damaged as a result of the heating process.

This simple chia seed pudding is the perfect breakfast option for any day of the week, even your busy weekday mornings, because it can be prepped the night before and ready to grab and go in the morning. My kids love chia seed pudding as an after school snack and its great for curbing that late night sweet tooth.

The word “CHIA” means strength, which should come as no surprise as they are packed with: 

• Antioxidants
• Fiber
• Calcium
• Manganese
• Omega-3 fatty acids

These tiny powerhouses not only aid in digestion, they help to balance blood sugar levels and promote brain health. They are also a great source of protein. 2 tablespoons of chia seeds contain about 4 grams of protein. Perfect morning fuel for your body and brain which is why I try to include chia seeds as part of my breakfast either sprinkled on sweet potato toast, added into my cereal or smoothies.

Made with only 4 simple ingredients; chia seeds + milk of choice + pure maple syrup + cacao powder.

Simply stir together and refrigerate!

Ingredients for 1 serving:

• • 1 tbsp raw cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
  • 1 tsp pure maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
  • ½ tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
  • ½ cup milk of choice (any milk will do including coconut milk, almond milk or regular milk)
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds

Directions:

Step 1: Mix together the cacao powder, maple syrup and vanilla (if using) in a bowl or individual serving container(s).

Step 2: Add in the chia seeds and milk then whisk together until the mixture is well combined.

Step 3: Let the pudding sit for 10-15 minutes before giving it another mix. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Enjoy as is or add your choice of toppings (fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut…)

MEAL PREPPING TIPS

Chia seed pudding keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and in the freezer for weeks, which makes this perfect for MEAL PREP. So go ahead and make an extra-large batch and then store it in the fridge in a large container and simply add your toppings before you are ready to enjoy. Alternatively, you can store this in individual serving size containers with the toppings already added so they are ready to grab and go! This option works well if you are planning to store it in the freezer. All you have to do is thaw your pudding in the fridge the night before, and you have a delicious breakfast (or snack option) waiting to be enjoyed the following day! 

Guided Wellness Tip: Do you have a busy morning coming up during the week or the weeks to come? Perhaps you and your family can benefit from having a breakfast option tucked away in the freezer. So why not make an extra batch to store away and add to your FREEZER STASH of meals. Go ahead and freeze this as one large batch enough for you and your family, then thaw in the fridge the night before. What’s a freezer stash? More on this topic in my Vegan Red Lentil and Channa Dal post.  CLICK HERE