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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Feel free to ditch the avocado–just know that it’s going to have a more chewy texture that can be divisive for kids.
Servings 5
Serving Size one bowl
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Brad (the Dad) is the founder and Chief Recipe Officer of New Dad's Kitchen. His own cooking/feeding journey started humbly during his son's infancy, preparing and managing his son's bottle intake in order to support his wife; it has since blossomed into a full-on passion to feed his child and family delicious and healthy meals that can satisfy both a toddler and his very tired parents.
