Go Back
Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding

Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding (Easy Meal Prep)

A healthy, high-protein dessert or breakfast requiring minimal prep time. This pudding is naturally sweetened, packed with fiber and healthy fats, and perfect for overnight meal preparation.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chocolate Pudding Base
  • 3 tablespoons Chia seeds Black or white
  • 1 cup Non-dairy milk Almond, oat, or dairy milk
  • 1 standard scoop Chocolate protein powder Use whey or a plant-based alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Unsweetened cocoa powder Or cacao powder for richer flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Maple syrup Or honey, agave, or preferred liquid sweetener
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch Fine sea salt Optional, but highly recommended to enhance chocolate flavor

Equipment

  • Airtight Container or Mason Jar (12-16 oz)
  • Small Whisk or Spoon

Method
 

Mixing the Pudding
  1. Prepare the Mixing Container: Select a jar or airtight container large enough to hold the pudding and allow for thorough shaking or stirring.
  2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: Add the chia seeds, the scoop of chocolate protein powder, the cocoa powder, and the optional pinch of sea salt into the container.
  3. Whisk the Dry Mix: Use a small whisk, spoon, or fork to thoroughly combine all the dry powders together. This step is crucial for breaking up protein powder clumps before adding liquid.
  4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in the one cup of milk, the tablespoon of maple syrup (or sweetener), and the half teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  5. Initial Vigorouls Stir: Immediately and quickly stir or shake the container vigorously for at least 30 to 60 seconds until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
Setting and Serving
  1. Second Thorough Stir: Allow the mixture to rest undisturbed at room temperature for five to ten minutes. After this brief rest, stir the pudding again very thoroughly. This prevents the chia seeds from settling completely on the bottom, ensuring a smooth texture.
  2. Refrigerate and Chill: Cover the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pudding to chill for a minimum of four hours. Overnight chilling is highly recommended for the best, thickest, and creamiest results.
  3. Serve: Before serving, check consistency. If the pudding is too thick, stir in an additional tablespoon of milk. Spoon the pudding into serving bowls and top with fresh fruit (like raspberries or banana slices), granola, or nuts.

Notes

If using a thick plant milk (like full-fat coconut milk), the pudding will set exceptionally thick, and you may need to add an extra splash of liquid before serving. For a richer, darker chocolate flavor, increase the cocoa powder by 1/2 teaspoon. This pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.