Chocolate Chia Pudding

OK everybody knows I'm a huge chocolate lover...but aren't we all? Get ready to nourish yourself while taming any chocolate cravings. Made without refined sugars, dairy, or preservatives. And here's where everyone loves me ...chocolate is good for you! It has been known to stimulate serotonin, the feel good neurotransmitter in your brain. It is also rich in antioxidant compounds with many health benefits. It contains resveratrol, antioxidants, and is a good source of magnesium. (Make sure the chocolate you eat is 72% or higher cacao and dairy free.)

As far as sweeteners, you want to be sure you choose your sugars carefully. Since the glycemic index is the standard measurement used to rank how fast blood sugar levels rise after we drink or eat a particular type of beverage or food over two three hour period of time, raw coconut nectar is a great choice to use as a sweetener. You guys know I love my Stevia but sometimes in certain recipes Stevia doesn't blend well or leaves a little bite. I used coconut secret brand coconut nectar. This brand ensures that they make their nectar in small batches so that it is low glycemic and enzymatically alive. This keeps it at its purest and most raw form.

This recipe is also packed with antioxidants, omega3 fatty acid's, and proteins and minerals. It's so easy to prepare and pack that you'll find yourself whipping up this tasty treat often!

Serves four

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk

2 1/2 t raw cacao powder

3 pitted dates

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 T coconut nectar

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/4 cup mixed fresh berries (optional)

1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

Directions:

Blend together the almond milk, dates, cacao, vanilla and coconut nectar. Stir in chia seeds. Cover and place in fridge for few hours or overnight. Stir again before topping with berries and almonds. Enjoy!