Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding – Simple Make-Ahead Dessert

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This High Protein Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is smooth, creamy, naturally sweetened, and packed with over 20 grams of protein per serving—perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout snack, or a satisfying dessert. Best of all, it takes just 5 minutes to prep and can be made in advance for grab-and-go meals all week long.

Whether you’re following a high-protein diet, a plant-based lifestyle, or looking for GLP-1-friendly breakfast ideas, this recipe fits right in. It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and full of nourishing ingredients your body will thank you for.

Ingredients Overview: What Makes This Pudding So Nutritious?

Every spoonful of this protein-packed chia pudding is made with functional, whole-food ingredients. Here’s what goes into it—and why it works.

1. Chia Seeds

  • The star of the show! Chia seeds absorb liquid to form a pudding-like consistency.

  • Rich in fiber, omega-3s, and plant-based protein.

  • Keep you full and support digestion.

2. Unsweetened Almond Milk (or Milk of Choice)

  • Acts as the base liquid. Almond milk keeps it light and dairy-free.

  • You can also use oat, soy, or dairy milk depending on dietary preference.

3. Chocolate Protein Powder

  • Provides the bulk of the protein in this recipe.

  • Choose a clean, high-quality whey or plant-based chocolate protein powder.

  • Adds flavor and richness to the pudding.

4. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

  • Boosts the chocolatey depth and makes the pudding taste like dessert.

  • Rich in antioxidants and gives a “brownie batter” flavor.

5. Maple Syrup or Honey (Optional)

  • Natural sweeteners help balance the bitterness of cocoa and protein powder.

  • Use to taste or omit entirely if your protein powder is already sweetened.

6. Greek Yogurt (Optional for Extra Creaminess & Protein)

  • Adds up to 10g more protein per serving.

  • Makes the pudding extra thick and indulgent without needing heavy cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

This recipe is no-cook, requires minimal equipment, and is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to make it:

1. Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl or jar, combine:

  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk

  • 1 scoop (30g) chocolate protein powder

  • 1–2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)

  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional)

Whisk until smooth. You can use a blender to avoid lumps if desired.

2. Stir in the Chia Seeds

Add:

  • ¼ cup chia seeds

Whisk well to prevent clumping. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again.

3. Refrigerate

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and thicken the pudding.

4. Serve & Enjoy

Give it one final stir before serving. Top with:

  • Fresh berries

  • A spoonful of peanut butter

  • Shaved dark chocolate

  • Coconut flakes

  • Crushed almonds or walnuts

Variations, Substitutions & Tips

Flavor Variations

  • Mocha: Add ½ tsp instant coffee or espresso powder.

  • Mexican Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper.

  • Chocolate PB Cup: Stir in 1 tbsp peanut butter or PB2 powder.

  • Chocolate Banana: Blend in ½ ripe banana before chilling.

Dietary Swaps

  • Vegan: Use plant-based protein powder and omit yogurt or sub with coconut yogurt.

  • Keto: Use unsweetened almond milk, skip maple syrup, and use a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit.

  • Nut-Free: Use oat milk or rice milk.

Texture Tips

  • Prefer smooth pudding? Blend everything before adding chia seeds.

  • Like it thicker? Add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds.

  • Want it creamier? Increase Greek yogurt or use full-fat coconut milk.

Serving Ideas & Best Occasions

This pudding is so versatile it works any time of day:

  • Breakfast meal prep: Make 3–4 jars for the week ahead.

  • Post-workout recovery: Fast, high-quality protein with carbs to refuel.

  • Healthy dessert: Feels like a treat but is low in sugar.

  • GLP-1 weight loss plans: Protein-rich and keeps you full longer.

  • Kids’ snack: Add mini chocolate chips and let them think it’s pudding!

Serve chilled straight from the jar, or warm slightly for a cozier version.

Nutritional Highlights

One serving (based on recipe with Greek yogurt and whey protein) contains approximately:

  • Protein: 20–24g

  • Carbs: 10–14g (depending on sweetener)

  • Fat: 8–10g (from chia seeds and milk)

  • Fiber: 9–10g

  • Calories: 250–300

Health Benefits:

  • Chia seeds provide omega-3s, anti-inflammatory fats, and fiber.

  • Protein supports muscle repair, weight management, and satiety.

  • Low sugar when made with unsweetened ingredients.

This is one of the most balanced and nutrient-dense snacks or meals you can prep in under 10 minutes.

FAQ: High Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding

1. Can I blend the pudding for a smoother texture?

Yes! Blend all ingredients (including chia seeds) for a mousse-like consistency. Chill afterward.

2. Is it okay to eat this every day?

Absolutely. It’s full of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Just vary your toppings to avoid getting bored.

3. Does the protein powder affect the taste?

Yes. A good chocolate protein powder enhances flavor, but a chalky or bitter one can overpower the pudding. Choose one you enjoy.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 5 days in a sealed jar or container. Stir before serving as chia seeds may settle.

5. Can I use water instead of milk?

You can, but the texture will be thinner and less creamy. Almond or oat milk is recommended for best consistency.

6. Can I make it without protein powder?

Yes! Just add 1–2 extra tablespoons of cocoa powder and adjust the sweetness to taste. You’ll lose the protein boost, but still get fiber and healthy fats.

7. What’s the best way to meal prep this?

Divide into small mason jars or containers, add toppings before eating, and keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Tasty Recipes Card (Plain Text Format)

Description:
Creamy, rich, and chocolatey, this high-protein chia pudding makes the perfect breakfast or snack with over 20g of protein per serving. Easy to prep, naturally sweetened, and meal-prep friendly.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk

  • 1 scoop (30g) chocolate protein powder

  • 1–2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional, for extra protein)

  • ¼ cup chia seeds

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, syrup, yogurt, and vanilla until smooth.

  2. Stir in chia seeds and mix well.

  3. Let sit 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumps.

  4. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.

  5. Stir before serving. Add toppings if desired.

Notes:

  • Store up to 5 days in the fridge.

  • Blend for a smooth mousse-like texture.

  • Great with peanut butter, berries, coconut flakes, or granola.

Details:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Chill Time: 4 hours

  • Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

  • Yield: 2 servings

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