Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s effortless, versatile, and naturally wholesome. The chia seeds thicken the pudding to a luscious texture, while the protein powder adds a satisfying boost that keeps you full for hours. It’s gluten-free, customizable, and made with just a few ingredients you can prep in minutes. Plus, it tastes like dessert but supports your fitness and wellness goals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chia seeds
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Protein powder (chocolate or vanilla flavor)
- Milk of choice (almond, oat, dairy, or coconut milk)
- Maple syrup or preferred sweetener
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: sliced banana, berries, shredded coconut, or dark chocolate shavings
Directions
- Mix the base: In a bowl or jar, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Make sure no cocoa clumps remain.
- Add chia seeds: Stir in chia seeds and whisk well to distribute evenly.
- Rest and stir again: Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, then stir once more to prevent clumping.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and form a pudding-like texture.
- Serve: Stir the pudding before serving and top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Variations
- Mocha Protein Pudding: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder for a coffee-chocolate flavor.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Pudding: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter for extra creaminess.
- Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
- Low-Carb Version: Use an unsweetened milk and a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
- Extra Creamy Texture: Blend the pudding after chilling for a smooth, mousse-like consistency.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pudding in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best served cold, but you can warm it slightly in the microwave if you prefer a softer texture. Chia pudding also freezes well for up to 1 month—thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
Is chia pudding actually filling?
Yes! Chia seeds are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized for hours.
Can I use any protein powder?
Yes, any flavor works, but chocolate or vanilla blends best with the cocoa powder.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a plant-based pudding.
How do I make it thicker?
Add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds or reduce the liquid slightly.
Can I blend it for a smoother texture?
Yes, blending creates a rich, creamy consistency similar to chocolate mousse.
Can I use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder?
Yes, cacao powder works great and offers a deeper, slightly bitter chocolate flavor.
How do I sweeten it without sugar?
Use stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol for a sugar-free option.
Is this good for meal prep?
Definitely. It keeps well in the fridge for several days and makes a convenient grab-and-go snack.
Can I add toppings?
Yes! Fresh fruit, granola, nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter make excellent toppings.
Is this recipe vegan?
It can be — just use plant-based milk and a vegan protein powder.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is a perfect example of healthy meets indulgent — a silky, chocolatey treat that nourishes your body and satisfies your sweet tooth. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with nutrients, it’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or post-workout recovery. Once you try it, this wholesome pudding will quickly become a staple in your routine.
PrintChocolate Chia Protein Pudding
Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is a smooth, chocolatey, and nutrient-dense treat made with chia seeds, cocoa powder, and protein powder. It’s naturally sweetened, high in fiber and protein, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a post-workout snack. This easy recipe combines indulgent flavor with wholesome nutrition in every spoonful.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook, Refrigerated
- Cuisine: Healthy, Modern
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 scoop protein powder (chocolate or vanilla flavor)
- 1 cup milk of choice (almond, oat, dairy, or coconut milk)
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or sweetener to taste
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: sliced banana, berries, shredded coconut, or dark chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a mixing bowl or jar, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and lump-free.
- Add chia seeds: Stir in chia seeds, mixing well so they’re evenly distributed.
- Rest and stir again: Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until thickened into a pudding consistency.
- Serve: Stir before serving and top with fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter if desired.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the pudding after chilling.
- Adjust sweetness to taste based on your protein powder and preferred milk.
- Use cacao powder for a richer, slightly bitter chocolate flavor.
- This pudding thickens more as it sits—add extra milk if it becomes too dense.
- Perfect for meal prep—store in jars for grab-and-go snacks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
