Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding (w/ Cherry Topping!)

Step 1

Make the chia seed pudding: In a large bowl or jar, whisk or shake together the coconut milk, milk, chia seeds, cacao powder, maple syrup, and sea salt.

Step 2

For a smoother consistency, place the mixture in a blender and blend on high until smooth.

Step 3

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to thicken, whisking or shaking occasionally. If the pudding seems thin after 2 hours, add additional chia seeds one tablespoon at a time, letting it sit for half an hour each time, until the mixture achieves a pudding-like consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more milk.

Step 4

Meanwhile, make the cherries jubilee: Combine the cherries, maple syrup and water in a medium saucepan. Cover, heat to high, then simmer on medium-low for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally

Step 5

Turn off the heat. In a small bowl, add the arrowroot and 2 tablespoons of the cherry juice from the pan. Stir until well combined, then add the mixture back to the pan, stirring until well incorporated. Add the almond extract, stir, and allow to cool completely.

Step 6

Spoon the pudding into individual servings, top with the cherry mixture, sprinkle with cacao nibs if using, and serve or refrigerate until ready to eat.