Are you looking for a tasty and nutritious way to kickstart your day, curb your afternoon cravings, or indulge in a guilt-free dessert? Look no further! This Carrot Cake Chia Pudding is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy goodness. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it's an ideal option for anyone striving to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Why You'll Love This Carrot Cake Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Combined with the natural sweetness of carrots and the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, this pudding is a treat that feels indulgent but is wonderfully good for you. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delightful dessert, it's a versatile recipe that's sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients (1 serving)

For the Chia Pudding:

2 tablespoons chia seeds
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tablespoon sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon liquid stevia (or sweetener of your choice - if using agave or maple syrup, do 1 tablespoon)
1/4 cup grated carrot
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons crushed walnuts

For The Topping:

1/2 cup cottage cheese
1/4 teaspoon liquid stevia (or sweetener of your choice - if using agave or maple syrup, do 1 tablespoon)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Chia Pudding:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chia seeds and milk. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
- Add the sweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, liquid stevia (or your preferred sweetener), grated carrot, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and form a thick, pudding-like consistency.
Prepare the Topping:
- To a blender or food processor, add the cottage cheese with the liquid stevia (or your preferred sweetener) and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy. Feel free to add a splash of milk for a thinner consistency. Add the mixture to a bowl and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Assemble and Serve:
- Once the chia pudding has set, add the crushed walnuts, and give it a good stir. If it's too thick, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Top the chia pudding with the sweetened cottage cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle crushed walnuts, cinnamon, shredded coconut and/or grated carrots on top for added flavor, texture, and fun.

Tips and Variations

Milk Choices: Feel free to use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond, coconut, soy, or traditional dairy milk.
Sweeteners: Adjust the sweetness to your liking by using more or less stevia, or substitute with honey, agave syrup, maple syrup, or monk fruit.
Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy, you can skip the walnuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Add Raisins: Include raisins or chopped dates for added sweetness and texture.
Use Greek Yogurt: If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, use Greek yogurt instead. Simply mix together plain Greek yogurt, vanilla extract and liquid stevia together in a bowl for the topping. You could also use vanilla flavored Greek yogurt, just note, that would increase the sugar amount.

Nutritional Benefits

This Carrot Cake Chia Pudding is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

Protein: Chia seeds and cottage cheese provide a high-protein content to keep you full and energized.
Fiber: Chia seeds and grated carrots offer a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Healthy Fats: Chia seeds and walnuts are excellent sources of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and overall well-being.
Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), and the other ingredients contribute to a range of essential nutrients.

Enjoy Anytime

This Carrot Cake Chia Pudding is versatile and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for any time of the day. Enjoy it for breakfast to start your day on a healthy note, as a midday snack to keep your energy levels up, or as a light and satisfying dessert. It's a delightful way to incorporate more protein and fiber into your diet while indulging in a treat that tastes just like a slice of carrot cake.

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More Chia Pudding Recipes To Try:

Strawberry Cheesecake Chia Pudding

Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding

Give this Carrot Cake Chia Pudding recipe a try, and let the delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients brighten your day!

Yield: 1

Author: Katerinafaith

Carrot Cake Chia Puddinghttps://youtu.be/VvBT0LiCJLE