The Ultimate Red Velvet Chia Seed Pudding – Delectable and Loaded With Protein

I don’t know about you all, but I'm ready for the holidays already! And I love looking for themed treats and dessert ideas. Enter, my ultimate red velvet chia seed pudding recipe. It's the perfect treat themed for the holidays AND loaded with good and healthy nutrients for your body.

Stay tuned to learn how to make this super easy and simple recipe. You'll want to add it to your fall and winter treat rotation!

What is healthy red velvet chia seed pudding anyways?

Well, for deeper context, chia seed pudding is a nutritious treat made by combining chia seeds with a liquid (usually plant based milk). The mixed ingredients are allowed to thicken in a refrigerator for a set amount of time, creating a pudding-like texture as the chia seeds absorb the liquid.

This mixture can be flavored to replicate many different favorite desserts or pudding flavors. Typically you can utilize a variety of flavorful and natural ingredients such as, pea protein, vanilla extract, natural sweeteners, and toppings such as fruits, nuts, coconut shavings, chocolate, and so much more.

In this case, I have created a red velvet cake inspired chia seed pudding recipe. This recipe tastes as good as a slice of traditional red velvet cake but it is jam packed with nutritious ingredients and none of the bad stuff.

The best part? You can enjoy it as a healthy breakfast, snack, or dessert! The options are endless and you do not need to feel guilty about it one bit.

Why is Chia Seed Pudding Good for You and your gut health?

So here’s the thing, chia seed pudding is not only delicious when made right, but also is beneficial for your overall wellbeing and particularly for good gut health. Most of the power is contained within the chia seeds themselves!

Here are a few reasons why they are considered good for you:

• Rich in Fiber: It’s no secret that chia seeds are an excellent source of dietary fiber, and fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy gut.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia seeds are a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can also contribute to a balanced gut environment.

• Prebiotics: Chia seeds contain soluble fiber that serves as prebiotics, providing nourishment to beneficial gut bacteria.

• Nutrient Density: Chia seeds are packed with nutrients like protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.

• Gluten-Free: Chia seeds are naturally gluten-free, making chia seed pudding an excellent option for those of us with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Remember, of course it is all based on your own dietary needs and preferences and that can vary person to person. For me, I am always looking for easy ways to pack in protein and fiber into my diet, so this type of treat is right up my alley!

Always listen to your body and see what you need and what recipes can best achieve those needs.

Why you will love this red velvet chia seed pudding recipe

Well, besides it being SOOO delicious, decadent, and satisfying of course!!

This recipe will also satiate you and hold you over until your next meal. This is because of the nutrient density of the meal notably with protein and fiber, and also because chia seeds tend to help you feel more full.

It is perfect for the holiday and winter season as a treat to remind you of one of your favorite desserts - red velvet cake!

Let’s be honest, we all have a sweet tooth every now and then, but when you are trying to stick to your health goals and dietary restrictions, this can pose a challenge.

Eating red velvet cake often comes with copious amounts of refined sugars, gluten from the flour, sometimes processed ingredients, food coloring, and dairy.

All those ingredients definitely do not work well for everyone! That is why it is so important, and so rewarding to get creative in the kitchen.

And that is why I bring to you today an alternative to red velvet cake - red velvet chia seed pudding.

Like I mentioned earlier, you can even enjoy this for breakfast!

Say what?! A healthy holiday breakfast treat?

Yes, you heard me correctly. I’ve already got the holiday season on my mind and quite frankly, it is my FAVORITE time of the year. I mean the joy, the love, the concept of bringing the family together, the cheer, the colors, and most importantly…the FOOD!

Since this will be one of the first holiday seasons where I actively try to avoid refined sugar, dairy, and gluten, that will definitely pose a lot of challenges given the types of food my Caribbean family likes to cook.

So I have my work cut out for me and over the next few months, I will be experimenting with different recipes and bringing you the best healthy and delicious alternatives to some of your favorites.

What is the holiday season without a red velvet cake anyways? The red color is a perfect addition to a holiday feast!

This healthy red velvet chia seed pudding will definitely knock your socks off. Most likely, it will become your go to healthy holiday dessert this year and beyond. And of course, stay tuned for more chia seed pudding dessert recipes!

Reasons Why the Ingredients in this Red Velvet Chia Seed Pudding Recipe Create a Healthier Treat

• Plant Fusion Red Velvet Cake Flavored Protein Powder: This is actually one of my favorite protein powders and in no way is this sponsored just my own personal recommendation. This protein powder not only adds a rich red velvet flavor but also provides, of course, an extra boost of protein. I feel like it definitely helps to create that red velvety unique flavor outside of trying to recreate it from scratch. Additionally, this protein powder is very clean with minimal ingredients. I feel good knowing what I am putting in my body.

• Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse like we mentioned earlier and definitely a key reason why this is a healthy recipe.

• Flaxseed Milk: In my recipe, I use flaxseed milk given some sensitivities to almonds. It is important to note that using almond milk as the liquid base is definitely more common. Flaxseed milk is a dairy-free alternative that provides healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. It's also rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D, which support bone health.

• Honey: Using honey as a sweetener adds natural sweetness without relying on refined sugars which we are all about over here! Honey also contains antioxidants and has potential antibacterial properties. Keep in mind that moderation is always key, as honey is still a source of calories.

• Beet Extract (from Protein Powder): The protein powder I use in htis recipe utilizes beet root extract to derive a natural red coloring to the powder. This is great because we don’t want to rely on chemically created food coloring. Beet root extract not only gives the red color characteristic of red velvet cake but also provides natural antioxidants and potential health benefits. Beets are known for their nitrate content, which may support cardiovascular health and exercise performance.

• Stevia Extract (from Protein Powder): The protein powder I am utilizing is also sweetened naturally using stevia extract which is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It basically adds sweetness without causing blood sugar spikes, making it a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake!

Kitchen Tools Needed

For this recipe, you will only need a few simple kitchen tools to achieve the desired result:

• Measuring cup
• Tablespoon
• Teaspoon
• Mason jar with lid
• Whisk (optional)

Tips to Make Your Red Velvet Chia Seed Pudding Recipe Best

Consistent Chia Seed Distribution

This one is essential - when adding chia seeds to your mixture, make sure to stir them well to prevent clumping. It’s best to try to achieve an even distribution throughout the pudding.

Allow Enough Soaking Time

The chia seeds need time to absorb the plant based milk and create that pudding-like texture we desire. For this reason, it's best to let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. If you can, let it sit overnight to achieve the best desired consistency.

Protein Powder Incorporation

When adding protein powder, mix it in thoroughly to avoid any lumps which can easily form since you are not using a blender. This will ensure a smooth consistency.

Adjust Sweetness

Taste your mixture before refrigerating it. That is the best time to make sure to add any other ingredients or natural sweeteners before the mixture thickens.

Texture Preferences

Chia seed pudding can vary in texture, from thicker to more liquid. If you prefer a thicker consistency, make sure to use a slightly higher ratio of chia seeds to liquid.

Get Creative With Toppings!!!

Consider adding toppings when you are ready to eat the red velvet chia seed pudding to enhance both flavor and presentation. Fresh berries, chopped nuts, or unsweetened chocolate nibs can all be great additions.

Storage Instructions for Your Red Velvet Chia Seed Pudding

After you prepare the red velvet chia seed pudding, you will need to cover the container with an airtight lid. Then, allow it to set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, at best overnight.

Refrigeration:

Chia seed pudding can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. As time passes, it is possible that the pudding might thicken even more. So, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit of liquid and stirring before serving. Chia seed pudding is also a great for meal prepping! Make sure to portion out how many servings you would like into separate airtight containers!

Freezing:

Freezing chia seed pudding might alter the overall texture when you go to defrost it. In my opinion, this dish is best served and enjoyed within the refrigeration period as described above for best quality.

Looking for more delicious and healthy recipes? Check out these next!

• Your new favorite breakfast item - protein packed acai bowl!
• Your go to gut friendly detox smoothie!

Now, let's get to this recipe :)