Chocolate Puddin'!

Happy Leap Day!

My first try at vegan chocolate pudding didn't work out so well. But, actually, it's not that hard to make a tasty vegan chocolate pudding or mousse. This is a good base recipe that can easily be altered to include different fruit mix-ins, and it's quick too!


Ingredients:
*Note that this ingredient list is for just 2 servings; so easily doubled for more!! 

• 1/2 package of silken tofu, drained and pressed
• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 1-2 Tbsp cocoa powder (I used 1 Tbsp the second time I made it and it was only slightly less chocolately, but go according to your preference)
• 2 Tbsp Enjoy Life, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips
• 1 Tbsp vanilla almond or soy milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Up to 1 Tbsp agave syrup to taste
• 1 packet stevia (or sub more agave to taste)
• 2 dates, pitted and chopped
• Optional add-ins: 1 Tbsp morello cherries in syrup (may want to reduce other sweetening options above), or 2 chopped figs, 2 Tbsp dried cranberries, 1/2 ripe banana, or 1/4 cup chopped strawberries. 

Steps:

1. Place any dried fruit you are using in a food processor and pulse. Add in tofu and process.
2. Place the chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe dish with the milk and microwave until melted (about 30 seconds or less). Mix and add to the food processor. 
3. Add in the rest of the ingredients and process until smooth. 
4. Store in the freezer for about 30 minutes prior to serving, or in the fridge for a few hours. 

Notes:
I've made this a couple of different ways, and actually really like using the following add-ins: 2 figs, 2 dates, and 2 Tbsp dried cranberries. The figs do add "texture" since you can't really get around the seeds, but I love the flavor combination. But if you want a silky smooth pudding, opt for plain (no add-ins), cranberries, banana, or jarred cherries. Also, regarding storage: you can store this in the freezer, and after a few hours it will completely solidify. But if you just allow it to re-thaw for about 20 minutes before serving, you'll have an icier version!

This isn't overwhelmingly sweet or chocolatey, but rather a smooth delicious blend that tastes like a healthy dessert or a slightly decadent breakfast! Have fun mixin' your puddin'!!