What is your favorite candy? One of our preferred sweet treats is definitely Hershey’s Almond Joy bars. The combination of milk chocolate, sweetened coconut, and almonds is delicious! However, this indulgence is off-limits to anyone following a sugar, gluten, and/or dairy-free diet.

So we created this chia pudding, which takes the mouthwatering flavor of Almond Joys and creates a healthier tasty treat. Loaded with fiber, omega-3s, and flavor, this pudding is as great as a breakfast as it is a dessert!

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Almond Joy Chia Pudding

1 C unsweetened almond milk (I prefer Califia Farms)
4 TBSP chia seeds
1/4 C cacao powder*
24 drops Coconut Stevia drops (I prefer SweetLeaf)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 TBSP sliced almonds, toasted (optional)
1 TBSP shredded coconut, unsweetened (optional)

Stir together all ingredients except the sliced almonds and shredded coconut until combined. Set aside for 5-10 minutes. Stir again until well combined. Fold in the almonds and coconut if you’re adding them. Refrigerate the mixture until it reaches your desired thickness, stirring occasionally. (I recommend a minimum of 2 hours to thicken). Eat or store – covered – in the fridge for up to 5 days.

* Substituting cocoa powder for the cacao is just fine. Just remember cocoa powder is a little sweeter than cacao, so adjust the Stevia to your taste preference.

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