Healthy Vegan Chocolate Pudding Recipe (gluten free, refined sugar free)

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Indulge in a guilt-free chocolate delight with our Decadent and Healthy Chocolate Pudding recipe is vegan and gluten free! This easy-to-follow recipe features simple, plant-based ingredients that are both nutritious and satisfying. The star of the show? A ripe avocado, offering healthy fats and creamy goodness. We’ve sweetened this dessert with pure maple syrup, enhanced the flavor with vanilla extract, and enriched it with the superfood chia seeds. Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie, a picky eater, or simply craving a chocolate treat, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s gluten-free, vegan, and packed with all the richness of dark chocolate without the added sugar.

Ingredients 

• 1 large ripe avocado (if using a smaller avocado, you may need to adjust the maple and cocoa powder amounts)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (any regular cocoa powder will work)
• 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips (optional)
• Fresh fruit for garnish (e.g., berries or banana slices)

Tools Needed 

• Food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Serving glasses or bowls
• Plastic wrap for chilling

Instructions 

Step 1: Prepare the Avocado Start by cutting the ripe avocado in half, removing the pit, and scooping out the flesh into your food processor. Avocado is the key to the creamy texture and healthy fats in this pudding.

Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor Pour in 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup and add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the food processor. These natural sweeteners will complement the richness of the chocolate and provide a delightful depth of flavor.

Step 3: Enhance with Cocoa Next, add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for that irresistible chocolatey goodness. For an even richer chocolate flavor, you can substitute dark cocoa powder.

Step 4: OPTIONAL Incorporate Healthy Chia Seeds Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds. These tiny powerhouses are not only a source of healthy fats but also provide a pudding-like consistency as they absorb liquid over time.

Step 5: Blend to Perfection With all the ingredients in the food processor, blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Scrape down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Coconut Milk (OPTIONAL) To add creaminess and depth, pour in 1/4 cup of full-fat coconut milk. This will elevate your pudding to a decadent dessert without the guilt.

Step 7: Optional Chocolate Chips For an extra touch of indulgence, stir in 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate chips. They will melt slightly into the pudding, creating delightful pockets of chocolatey goodness.

Step 8: Chill and Set Transfer the pudding mixture into serving glasses or bowls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a couple of hours or until the pudding has set. This step allows the flavors to meld, and the chia seeds to thicken the pudding.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy When it’s time to serve, garnish your healthy chocolate pudding with fresh fruit, such as berries or banana slices. The contrast of flavors and textures will make every bite a joyous experience. Savor this sweet treat, knowing it’s a nutritious dessert that satisfies your chocolate cravings.

Variations and Tips

1. Low Sugar Option: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste.
2. Nut Butter Swirl: Drizzle almond butter or peanut butter on top for a nutty twist.
3. Paleo-Friendly: To make this pudding paleo-friendly, replace the oat or soy milk with unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk.
4. Tapioca Starch: For an even creamier texture, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of tapioca starch while blending.
5. Chocolate Fix: If you’re a true chocoholic, consider adding an extra tablespoon of raw cacao powder for an extra dose of antioxidants.
6. Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder for a high-protein pudding.

This Decadent and Healthy Vegan Chocolate Pudding is the ultimate solution for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying true to your health goals. With simple, real-food ingredients, it’s an excellent source of antioxidants, healthy fats, and flavor. Plus, it’s gluten-free, vegan, and adaptable to various dietary preferences. Share your creation on social media and watch it become a star with a high star rating, proving that healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying. Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence on a regular basis as a perfect snack or dessert!

More healthy desserts to try:

Healthy Banana Split  

Healthy Edible Cookie Dough for One