Chocolate Sesame Chia Pudding

Do you all remember those "Chia Pet" commercials that seemed to air during every commercial break in the early 2010s? I remember thinking those toys were pure magic: just add water, and suddenly they’d sprout into something completely new.

Fifteen years later, I’m still amazed by chia seeds; they’ve officially earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. When my week gets hectic, chia pudding is my go-to because it couldn’t be easier to make. It takes about five minutes to prep the night before, and then the fridge does all the work while I sleep. There’s something so satisfying about the way those tiny seeds transform into a creamy, pudding-like texture once they soak up the liquid.

What I love most about chia pudding is that it tastes just like dessert: rich, creamy, and so satisfying, but made with ingredients that actually make you feel good. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with the combination of chocolate and sesame. It sounds fancy, but it couldn’t be easier to make. The deep cocoa flavor pairs perfectly with the nutty, slightly earthy taste of tahini, creating a pudding that feels like a low-effort, high-reward treat for busy weeks.

So if you’re craving something chocolatey but want to keep things wholesome, this one’s for you.

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Chocolate Sesame Chia Pudding:

Ingredients (makes one serving)

• 2 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk you like)

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tbsp tahini

• 1–2 tsp maple syrup, to taste

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the almond milk, cocoa powder, tahini, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

2. Stir in the chia seeds and let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until thick and pudding-like.

4. When ready to serve, give it a quick stir and add your favorite toppings.

Topping ideas

• Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)

• Banana slices

• Chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, walnuts)

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Shaved or mini dark chocolate

• A drizzle of tahini or nut butter

• Granola

My favorite way to enjoy it

I like to scoop the chia pudding on top of a bowl of Greek yogurt, then pile on some blueberries, pistachios, and a few sesame seeds. It’s an easy combo, but the mix of textures and flavors is the best!