High Protein Dessert – Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe

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Creamy, chocolatey, and packed with nutrients, this High Protein Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding is the ultimate guilt-free treat. Whether you need a post-workout snack, meal-prep breakfast, or a clean dessert, this no-cook recipe delivers big flavor and fuel in every spoonful. Chia seed pudding has long been a favorite of wellness lovers, and for good reason: it’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and full of fiber. But this version goes a step further by adding extra protein—making it ideal for anyone looking to fuel up without loading up on sugar or empty calories.

The combination of chia seeds and protein powder creates a thick, mousse-like texture with a rich chocolate flavor. You don’t need fancy equipment or baking skills—just a jar and a spoon.

This pudding makes a great grab-and-go breakfast, but it’s just as satisfying as a post-dinner treat. And because it keeps in the fridge for days, it’s perfect for meal prep too.

Ingredients Overview: What’s Inside This Power-Packed Pudding

Every ingredient plays a role in turning this into a nutrient-dense snack that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Chia Seeds

  • Tiny nutritional powerhouses.

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

  • Their gelatinous texture is what thickens the pudding naturally.

Milk of Choice

  • Dairy milk adds calcium and natural protein.

  • Plant-based options like almond, oat, or soy work just as well.

  • For max protein, use unsweetened soy milk or fairlife milk.

Protein Powder

  • The secret to boosting this recipe’s protein count.

  • Choose unsweetened chocolate or vanilla whey, casein, or plant-based protein.

  • Adds creaminess and thickness.

Cocoa Powder

  • Provides deep chocolate flavor without added sugar.

  • Choose unsweetened natural or Dutch-processed depending on your taste.

Sweetener

  • Maple syrup, honey, agave, stevia, or monk fruit can be used.

  • Adjust to taste based on your protein powder’s sweetness level.

Vanilla Extract

  • Optional but enhances the overall flavor and aroma.

Optional Add-ins

  • Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

  • Nut butter for richness and healthy fats.

  • Espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Foolproof Every Time

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl or large mason jar, whisk together:

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds

  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 scoop (about 25–30g) chocolate protein powder

Break up any lumps, especially from the protein powder and cocoa.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in:

  • ¾ cup milk of choice

  • 1–2 teaspoons sweetener of choice

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined. Let the mixture sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.

Step 3: Chill and Set

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

  • The chia seeds will swell and create a thick, pudding-like texture.

Step 4: Stir and Serve

  • Give the pudding one last stir before serving.

  • If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.

  • Top with sliced bananas, berries, granola, or dark chocolate shavings.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Tips for Success:

  • Mix twice: Stir once right after mixing and again a few minutes later. This helps prevent seeds from clumping at the bottom.

  • Use a jar with a lid: Perfect for shaking instead of stirring.

  • Let it chill overnight: The texture is best when fully hydrated.

Flavor Variations:

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

  • Chocolate Peanut Butter: Stir in 1 tbsp natural peanut butter before chilling.

  • Chocolate Banana: Mash half a banana into the mixture for natural sweetness.

Substitutions:

  • No protein powder? Add ¼ cup Greek yogurt for 8–10g extra protein.

  • Dairy-free? Use soy milk and vegan protein.

  • Low-carb? Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This high-protein pudding isn’t just for breakfast—it fits into your day in multiple ways:

  • Post-Workout Snack: Rebuild muscle with protein and fiber.

  • Healthy Dessert: Satisfy your chocolate craving without sugar spikes.

  • Meal Prep Breakfast: Make 3–5 jars ahead for the week.

  • After-School Treat: A clean snack for kids and teens.

  • Travel Fuel: Pack in a sealed jar for flights or road trips.

Serve chilled with your favorite toppings like:

  • Fresh raspberries or blueberries

  • Crushed almonds or walnuts

  • Coconut flakes

  • Dark chocolate chips

  • Sliced kiwi or mango for tropical flair

Nutritional & Health Notes

Chia pudding is a nutritional powerhouse when combined with protein. Here’s why this version stands out:

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 220–300 (depends on milk & protein powder)

  • Protein: 18–25g

  • Fiber: 8–10g

  • Carbs: 12–20g

  • Fat: 9–12g

Key Health Benefits:

  • Muscle Support: High protein aids recovery and satiety.

  • Digestive Health: Chia seeds are loaded with soluble fiber.

  • Balanced Energy: Slow-digesting carbs and healthy fats offer sustained fuel.

  • Gluten-Free & Refined Sugar-Free: Easily made suitable for most diets.

  • Anti-Inflammatory: Cocoa and chia both offer antioxidant benefits.

Make it work for your macro goals by adjusting the ratios of seeds, protein, and milk.

FAQ: Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding

1. How long does chia pudding last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Perfect for batch prepping!

2. My pudding didn’t set. What went wrong?

This usually happens when there’s not enough chia or the liquid-to-seed ratio is off. Make sure to stir twice and give it enough time (at least 2 hours).

3. Can I blend the chia pudding for a smooth texture?

Yes! Blend after it sets for a smoother, mousse-like consistency. Great if you don’t like the texture of whole chia seeds.

4. What’s the best protein powder to use?

Use a high-quality, unsweetened protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based). Vanilla or chocolate flavors work best here.

5. Is this suitable for keto?

Yes, with adjustments. Use unsweetened almond milk, zero-carb sweetener, and low-carb protein powder. Watch fruit toppings.

6. Can I freeze chia pudding?

Technically yes, but it may alter the texture. It’s better enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

7. How do I increase the protein even more?

Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt, collagen peptides, or nut butter. Each of these adds an extra 5–10g of protein depending on the serving.

Tasty Recipes Card (Plain Text Format)

Description:
Thick, creamy chocolate chia seed pudding packed with protein—perfect as a breakfast, snack, or healthy dessert. Easy to prep, no cooking required!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp chia seeds

  • ¾ cup milk of choice (dairy, soy, almond, etc.)

  • 1 scoop (25–30g) chocolate protein powder

  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1–2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for extra protein)

  • 1 tbsp nut butter

  • ½ mashed banana

  • Berries or shaved chocolate for topping

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl or jar, whisk chia seeds, cocoa powder, and protein powder.

  2. Add milk, sweetener, and vanilla. Mix well to combine.

  3. Let sit for 3 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.

  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

  5. Stir before serving. Add toppings if desired.

Notes:

  • Use soy or Fairlife milk for extra protein.

  • Stir twice to prevent clumps.

  • Add nut butter or yogurt for a creamier texture.

Details:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Chill Time: 2 hours

  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

  • Yield: 1 serving (can be scaled up)

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