Healthy puddings are one of my favourite things to make. They’re so simple and adaptable. I typically start with a chia and/or flax and dairy free milk base. I then add whatever tasty flavours and spices my taste buds desire.
One of my recent favourite pudding flavour combos is chocolate-maca. Have you heard or used maca powder in a recipe before? Let me know if the comment section!
What is maca?
Maca is a Peruvian plant grown in the Andes Mountains. It’s a cruciferous vegetable; related to broccoli, cabbage, and kale.[i] It has an earthy flavor and aroma (reminds me a little of unsweetened butterscotch), and can be ground into powder and added to foods like this pudding recipe!
Health benefits of maca:
Adding maca powder to your day can have various health benefits. Some of the top benefits include:
- Boosts energy
- Lowers blood pressure
- Improves brain function (memory)
- Increases libido
- Increases fertility
- Reduces menopausal symptoms[ii]
Note: due its effects on hormones, individuals with thyroid conditions should consult a physician before consuming maca powder.
Ways to use maca powder:
- Smoothies
- Puddings
- Porridge/oatmeal
- Cookies and baking
Note: the average consumption is ½ – 1 tsp per adult per day.
Now that you’ve learned a bit about maca, let’s dive right into this tasty recipe!
Why I love this chocolate-maca pudding recipe?
- Easy to make
- The flavour combo is super tasty
- Just sweet enough
- Has a chocolaty aftertaste
- Great for snack, breakfast, or desert!
What makes this pudding a healthy option?
- It uses clean and simple ingredients
- It’s naturally sweetened with coconut nectar
- It’s allergen friendly; dairy, gluten, soy, egg free, with a nut free option
- It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals helping support overall health and strengthening the immune system
- It’s high in fiber and good fats, supporting overall digestion, blood sugar levels, brain and heart health
Steps to making this chocolate-maca pudding recipe:
- STEP 1 – Mix all ingredients
- STEP 2 – Add to jars and refrigerate
- STEP 3 – Add toppings and enjoy
A few tips when making this recipe:
- Use organic where possible, in particular with the powders and spices
- Allow for enough chill time
- Paired with textured toppings like nuts, seeds, and freshly sliced banana for added flavour
Fiber Rich Chocolate-Maca Pudding Recipe
Chocolate Sundae Chia Pudding
Equipment
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Small Glass Jars or Bowls (120-160ml)
Ingredients
Pudding
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup dairy free milk (I used coconut) I used coconut milk
- 1-2 tbsp full fat coconut cream optional but recommended
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp organic raw cacao powder depending on how chocolatey you like it
- 1/2 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- Pinch of pink salt
Toppings
- Coconut yogurt
- Organic strawberry jam and/or fresh diced strawberries
- Drizzle of melted dark chocolate*
Instructions
- Add all pudding ingredients to a small mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until fully combined.**
- Pour and dived among 3 glass jars or small bowls. Cover and place in the fridge to cool (30-60 minutes, or overnight)
- When ready to eat, layer toppings into the jars/bowls. Serve and enjoy right away!
Notes
- *For a tasty chocolate drizzle, melt 1/4 cup dark chocolate with 1 tsp coconut oil in the microwave for 30-40 seconds, mix well with a fork to ensure all chocolate pieces melt.
- **If you don’t like the texture of chia seeds, you can add all chia pudding ingredients to a small high speed blender for a minute or so until seeds are fully blended. Then add this mixture to the jars and refrigerate.
- Coconut cream is optional but I recommend as it adds a nice creamy texture.
[i] Kandola, Aaron. “10 Health Benefits of Maca Root.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 18 July 2018, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322511.php.
[ii] Kandola, Aaron. “10 Health Benefits of Maca Root.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 18 July 2018, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322511.php.