Description
This delicious high-protein chocolate chia pudding is a creamy, plant-based snack or breakfast option packed with protein and healthy fats. Made with cocoa powder, chia seeds, and vegan protein powder blended with plant-based milk and sweetened naturally, it offers a nutritious and satisfying treat that’s perfect for post-workout recovery or a wholesome start to your day. Completely vegan and easy to prepare, this pudding can be customized with various toppings for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 scoop plant-based/vegan protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
- 1 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, to taste)
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings
- Coconut whip
- Cacao nibs
- Fresh berries
- Dark chocolate shavings
- Dairy-free yogurt
- Sliced banana
- A spoonful of peanut butter
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl or jar, whisk together the plant-based milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, vanilla extract (if using), maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the Chia Seeds: Stir the chia seeds into the mixture thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
- Let it Sit for 5 Minutes: Allow the pudding mixture to rest at room temperature for 5 minutes. Then, stir again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together and to help them distribute more evenly.
- Chill & Thicken: Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This chilling step allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the pudding to a creamy consistency.
- Top & Serve: Before serving, give the pudding a quick stir to combine any separated liquid. Add your favorite toppings such as coconut whip, cacao nibs, fresh berries, dark chocolate shavings, dairy-free yogurt, sliced banana, or a spoonful of peanut butter for enhanced flavor and texture. Enjoy chilled.
Notes
- This chia pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days, making it ideal for meal prep and quick healthy snacks throughout the week.
- Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference for a less or more sweet pudding.
- Using different flavors of vegan protein powder (chocolate or vanilla) will slightly alter the taste and richness.
- Feel free to experiment with plant-based milk types for varied flavor profiles, such as oat milk or coconut milk.
- For a thicker pudding, you can increase chia seeds to 3 tablespoons.