Chocolate chia pudding is one of those obvious and all-too-easy moves that both you and your child could enjoy–if only said kiddo could get past the very same grainy, poppy texture you likely love. You could mix the chia with oats, as we do in any number of overnight oats variations; that would be breakfast, though. What you want is a pudding for all times, a treat that doesn’t feel like cheating: dessert with, say, nutritional value.
We got you. Our solution is as obvious and all-too-easy as the chocolate chia pudding idea itself: avocado. The fruit of one, when mashed and mixed in with the pudding, provides cover for the chia seeds, blending them into creamy oblivion that gives your child that from-the-box pudding texture, with only the slightest inkling of tiny seeds lurking within; the avocado does not affect the taste and texture. Best of both worlds, really: your kid doesn’t think (s)he’s sucking on sand; he/she gets a few more good fats and a lot of Vitamin A, to boot. And everyone gets chocolate pudding.
Check out this even more veggie and vitamin packed pudding recipe!
Ingredients Overview
This chocolate chia pudding for toddlers blends creamy avocado with chia seeds for a smooth texture little ones will eat—no “grainy” pudding gag-reflex. The cocoa gives familiar chocolatey flavor, the maple syrup adds gentle sweetness, and milk (or a dairy‐free alternative) rounds out the base. It’s a no-cook treat you can prep ahead, making snack or breakfast for your toddler easier.
Steps Summary
- Peel a very ripe avocado and mash into a bowl with a splash of milk until smooth.
- In another bowl sift cocoa powder with a shake of cinnamon (and optional cardamom).
- Combine the mashed avocado and milk with the cocoa mixture, then stir in chia seeds, maple syrup and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours (overnight works best) so the chia seeds set into pudding texture.
- Before serving, if the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk and stir. Top with sliced banana or granola if desired.
- Serve this chocolate chia pudding for toddlers chilled, in toddler-friendly bowls or cups, spoon-accessible and portioned appropriately.
FAQ
Q: Is the avocado safe for toddlers?
Yes — when very ripe it’s soft, easily mashed, and generally toddler-friendly. It provides healthy fats and masks the chia seed texture, making this chocolate chia pudding for toddlers more texturally acceptable.
Q: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, if your toddler is over 1 year old and you’re comfortable with honey. Otherwise, stick with maple or agave to keep it baby/toddler-safe.
Q: How early can I make this?
You can set it up the night before (about 8 hours ahead). If making it further ahead, keep refrigerated and stir briefly before serving to refresh the texture of this chocolate chia pudding for toddlers.
Q: What about dairy‐free milk substitutes?
Absolutely fine — almond, oat, soy or other dairy‐free milks will work. The texture and setting of the chia seeds remain consistent, so your chocolate chia pudding for toddlers stays smooth.
Related Links
What to Serve With Healthy and Easy Chocolate Chia Pudding
- Protein Smoothie — A light, fresh companion to your chocolate chia pudding for toddlers.
- Sheet Pan Pancake — A rich and easy to make breakfast for the whole family.
More Toddler-Friendly Recipes Like This
- Chocolate Quinoa Crisps for Kids — A no-bake, crunchy sweet snack that shares the chocolate flavor-profile and toddler-texture focus. New Dad’s Kitchen
- Stuffed Strawberry Bites: A Great Toddler Snack Idea — A simple, fresh snack with minimal cooking needed—perfect for toddlers and the kitchen you navigate.
Healthy and Easy Chocolate Chia Pudding For Kids
Description
Creamy, chocolatey, and packed with nutrients, this chia pudding is a kid-approved twist on a classic healthy treat. It’s easy to prep ahead for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prep and Assemble
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In a small bowl, peel avocado and place fruit inside. Mash avocado until creamy, using a splash or two of milk as needed to help break up
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To a separate bowl, add cocoa powder and a couple of shakes of cinnamon; if using, add an additional shake of cardamom. Sift to blend.
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Add avocado and milk and stir to combine. (Note: if your avocado is less ripe and/or not creamy after your initial mash, use a hand mixer to help it integrate). Add in chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing again until everything is combined and smooth.
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Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
Serve
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If the mixture looks dense when you’re ready to serve, mix with a splash or two of milk to loosen. You can serve as is, but for a light breakfast or hearty snack try topping with some sliced fruit–bananas would be a great choice–and some granola or crushed nuts.
Adapt
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Feel free to ditch the avocado–just know that it’s going to have a more chewy texture that can be divisive for kids.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
Serving Size one bowl
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 195kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Potassium 300mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 16g
- Protein 4g8%
- Calcium 120 mg
- Iron 1.3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
