If you are looking for a delightful, nourishing treat that feels indulgent yet completely wholesome, this Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) Recipe is going to steal your heart. Combining the creamy sweetness of ripe bananas with rich raw cacao and the irresistible texture of chia seeds, it’s a luscious pudding that’s fully plant-based and naturally sweetened. Perfect as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, this dish is quick to whip up and requires no cooking—just a little patience as it thickens into a velvety delight you’ll want to savor time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: chia seeds bring that magical gel-like texture and fiber boost, cacao powder lends a deep chocolatey richness, and ripe bananas add natural creaminess and sweetness. Together with a few warming spices and almond milk, these ingredients create a luscious pudding that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Chia seeds: These tiny seeds absorb liquid to form the pudding’s perfect texture and pack a punch of omega-3 and fiber.
- Raw cacao powder: Adds the intense chocolate flavor and a wealth of antioxidants without any bitterness.
- Cinnamon: Just a hint to lift the chocolate and banana flavors with subtle warmth.
- Almond milk, unsweetened: The creamy dairy-free base keeps the pudding light and vegan-friendly.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and depth, making every bite taste more complex.
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that balances the bitterness of cacao beautifully.
- Ripe bananas: These provide natural sweetness and creaminess to soften the pudding and keep it naturally vegan.
How to Make Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the chia seeds, raw cacao powder, and cinnamon in a large bowl or container. This dry base ensures the flavors are evenly distributed before adding the liquids, allowing the chia seeds to soak up the chocolate-spiced goodness perfectly as they swell.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the almond milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and the mashed ripe bananas. Whisk everything thoroughly until all the ingredients form a smooth, evenly mixed batter. The mashed bananas not only sweeten but also give the pudding a creamier, more luscious texture right from the start.
Step 3: Refrigerate to Thicken
Cover the bowl or container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This resting time is essential as the chia seeds absorb the liquid, making the pudding thick and velvety, ready for you to enjoy or blend if desired.
Step 4: Blend for Smoothness (Optional)
Once your chia pudding has thickened, transfer it to a blender and pulse until completely smooth. While blending is optional, it transforms the texture into a silky, mousse-like dessert that feels even more decadent and indulgent.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop your pudding into bowls or jars, and it’s ready to eat! You can dress it up with toppings or keep it simple. Alternatively, cover and store it in the fridge for later indulgence.
How to Serve Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) Recipe
Garnishes
The right toppings turn a simple pudding into a feast for the eyes and palate. Consider fresh berries for a pop of tartness, shredded coconut for tropical flair, or a handful of chopped nuts to add crunch and an extra layer of texture. A drizzle of almond butter or a sprinkle of cacao nibs makes this pudding feel truly special.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs brilliantly with a side of fresh fruit salad or a piece of crusty whole-grain toast if you’re enjoying it for breakfast. For a treatier dessert course, serve alongside vegan cookies or biscotti to dunk into every creamy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) Recipe in clear glass jars or small bowls highlights its rich color and invites your guests to dive in. Layer it with granola and sliced bananas for a parfait or freeze it in popsicle molds for a refreshing chocolate banana snack on warmer days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld more deeply over time, and it remains an easy, grab-and-go snack or breakfast option.
Freezing
While freezing chia pudding isn’t always recommended due to texture changes, this recipe fares quite well if you want to freeze portions in sealed containers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before eating to regain smoothness.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed chilled, but you can gently warm it in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if you prefer a soft, slightly warm treat. Be sure not to overheat, or the bananas might alter the texture.
FAQs
Can I use another type of plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk work wonderfully and will each bring their own unique flavor and creaminess to the pudding. Just ensure the milk is unsweetened for best results.
Do I have to mash the bananas?
Mashing the bananas helps evenly distribute their flavor and sweetness throughout the pudding, ensuring every spoonful is creamy and smooth. However, for a chunkier texture, you can leave some small pieces.
Can I make this pudding without cacao powder?
You can omit cacao for a banana chia pudding if desired, but this would change the entire flavor profile. To keep some chocolate notes, try using carob powder or a dark vegan chocolate melt mixed into the pudding instead.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the pudding for so long?
Yes, refrigerating allows the chia seeds time to swell, absorbing the liquid and flavors. This step is crucial to achieve the right pudding-like consistency instead of a runny mixture.
How do I adjust sweetness?
Maple syrup is easily adjustable depending on your taste. Start with less if you prefer less sweet, then add a little more before chilling if needed. You could also experiment with agave nectar or coconut sugar.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can transform into a delicious, nourishing dessert or snack you’ll want to make over and over again. Its creamy texture, natural sweetness, and chocolatey goodness make it a true crowd-pleaser that’s kind to your body and the planet. Don’t wait to try it—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy pudding!
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Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (including blending time)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This vegan Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding is a creamy, nutritious, and delicious treat perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack. Made with chia seeds, raw cacao powder, and ripe bananas, it offers a rich chocolate flavor combined with natural sweetness and a smooth texture. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup and infused with cinnamon and vanilla, this pudding is easy to prepare and packed with plant-based nutrients.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 4 Tbsp raw cacao powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk, unsweetened
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl or container, whisk together the chia seeds, raw cacao powder, and cinnamon until they are evenly mixed.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the almond milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and mashed bananas into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a smooth mixture.
- Refrigerate to thicken: Cover the bowl or container with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb liquid and thicken the pudding.
- Blend for smoothness (optional): Once the pudding has thickened, transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. This step is optional but enhances the texture significantly.
- Serve and enjoy: Pour the chia pudding into serving dishes, add your favorite toppings if desired, and enjoy immediately or store in the refrigerator for later consumption.
Notes
- The pudding can be made a day ahead for convenience and better texture.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to suit your taste.
- Toppings like fresh berries, nuts, or coconut flakes complement the pudding well.
- The blending step is optional; if you prefer a crunchy texture, you can skip it.
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and creaminess.

