Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Please don't click away. I know the title of this post might turn you off a little, but you need to know all about this pudding that tastes exactly like the homemade chocolate pudding of your youth, minus the sugar, heavy cream, eggs, and other less-than-good-for-you ingredients.

I wasn't setting out to make a healthy version of an otherwise classic dessert, but the avocados sitting on my counter were nearly passed their prime, and after a week of mashing them up with lime juice and sea salt to slather over my toast for lunch, I needed something new to try with my favourite fruit (yes, they are indeed a fruit). 

I recently read about chocolate avocado mousse, but I wasn't feeling like anything fussy, and instead opted for a one-bowl pudding in the food processor that I felt certain the kids would enjoy. They did, although their preferred version is made without the addition of the espresso powder, which Rob and I both enjoy. You can serve these topped with whipped cream, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, or plain in their little pots, which happens to work just as well. 

Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Makes 2 large or 4 small servings

• 2 large ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
• 4 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 5-7 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp. espresso powder (optional)

Combine all of the ingredients in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade and process until mixed and smooth. 

Divide evenly between four small ramekins, bowls or mason jars and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1-2 hours and serve cold. 

Comments

[leah leitch]

Okay, now I know why I love you! It's funny that you mentioned not to click away but in my case you had me right away. My vegetarian daughter is going to flip and I can't wait to try it myself. I'll keep you posted on the results!!

Thanks :)

[Jan Scott]

Ha - thats awesome! I cant wait to hear the feedback. My kids had NO idea there was avocado in it. I kept asking them if they could detect the secret ingredient and they only guessed various alcohols - Im not really sure what that says about me. :)

[Wanda]

LOL....I wonder if my picky eaters would guess they were eating avocados!

[Jan Scott]

I dont think they will, Wanda! My kids had no idea.

[Michela]

I've been looking for a vegan chocolate pudding recipe for a while (should work if I sub soy milk for the milk...). We love avocados, especially our 5-year-old, so even if you can't taste them, I'm sure they'll go over well. Thanks!

[Jan Scott]

Thanks, Michela! I hope the pudding is well-received by your 5-year-old!