Why You'll Love It
- Packed with plant-based protein to keep you satisfied
- Naturally sweetened without refined sugars
- Perfect make-ahead option for busy weeks
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert
"My whole family adores this pudding! It's become our favorite healthy dessert that doesn't taste like a compromise at all."
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Chia seeds: These tiny powerhouses absorb liquid and create the pudding texture. Look for fresh seeds - they should smell nutty, not bitter.
- Plant-based protein powder: Choose a high-quality chocolate or vanilla flavored powder that dissolves well in liquid without clumping.
- Cocoa powder: Use natural cocoa for that deep chocolate flavor - it adds richness without extra sweetness.
- Maple syrup: This natural sweetener complements the chocolate beautifully and blends smoothly into the mixture.
- Almond milk: The base liquid that allows the chia seeds to swell - unsweetened works best to control sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances all the other flavors and adds warmth to the chocolate notes.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Having everything measured and ready makes the process smooth. The chia seeds need liquid to activate their gelling properties, so proper measurement is key.
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Flavor Development:
The chocolate flavor deepens as the pudding sets. The cocoa powder and protein powder need time to fully hydrate and release their full flavor potential.
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Texture Control:
The chia seeds slowly absorb the liquid over several hours, creating that perfect pudding consistency without any cooking required.
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Finishing Touches:
A final stir before serving breaks up any clumps and ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the pudding.
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Serving Timing:
This pudding is best served chilled after at least 4 hours of setting time, allowing flavors to fully develop and texture to perfect.
- Whisk vigorously to prevent clumps in your protein powder
- Let it set overnight for the creamiest texture
- Stir again after 30 minutes to redistribute seeds
- Taste and adjust sweetness after initial mixing
Pro Tips
Honestly, the waiting is the hardest part. I find myself peeking into the fridge more than I'd like to admit, just to see how it's coming along. The transformation is truly magical - from a thin, watery mixture to this thick, spoonable delight. When you give it that final stir before serving, you'll notice how the texture has become uniform and creamy, with no separation at all. It's one of those recipes that feels like it shouldn't work as well as it does, but oh, it absolutely delivers.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Always use fresh chia seeds for best texture
- Whisk thoroughly to avoid clumping
- Patience is key - don't rush the setting time
- Taste before serving and adjust sweetness if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use a different plant milk?
Absolutely! Any plant-based milk will work - oat milk makes it extra creamy, coconut milk adds richness, soy milk adds more protein. Just make sure it's unsweetened to control the final sweetness.
→ How long does this keep in the fridge?
It will keep well for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The texture might thicken slightly over time, so you can stir in a little extra milk if needed before serving.
→ Can I make this without protein powder?
Yes, though you'll lose the high protein content. The pudding will still set beautifully with just chia seeds, and you can increase the cocoa powder slightly for more chocolate flavor.
→ Why is my pudding too thin?
This usually means the chia seeds need more time to absorb liquid, or you might need slightly more chia seeds. Give it another stir and let it sit longer - the seeds continue absorbing moisture over time.
→ Can I freeze this pudding?
I wouldn't recommend freezing as the texture changes significantly when thawed. The chia seeds can become grainy and separate from the liquid.
→ What are good toppings for this pudding?
Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a dollop of nut butter all work beautifully. For a special occasion, it pairs wonderfully with other sweet treats on a dessert board.
Chef's Tips
For best results, use fresh chia seeds - older seeds may not thicken properly,If you don't have protein powder, you can omit it but the protein content will be lower,The pudding will continue to thicken over time - adjust consistency with more milk if needed,This recipe scales easily for meal prep or party planning
Nutrition Facts
per serving
245
Calories
15g
Protein
28g
Carbs
12g
Fat
Taste Profile
Rich chocolate flavor with natural sweetness and subtle nutty undertones
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Oat milk creates creamier texture, soy milk adds more protein, coconut milk adds richness
Other liquid sweeteners work well - adjust quantity to taste as sweetness levels vary
Cacao is less processed and has more nutrients, but may be slightly more bitter
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Mocha Version
Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules or espresso powder for a coffee-chocolate flavor combination
Peanut Butter Chocolate
Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut powder or actual peanut butter for a classic flavor pairing
Mint Chocolate
Add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that makes it perfect for holiday gatherings
Tropical Version
Use coconut milk instead of almond milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor profile
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Not whisking enough initially, resulting in clumpy protein powder
- Using old chia seeds that don't absorb liquid properly
- Impatience - not allowing enough setting time for proper texture
- Over-sweetening initially without tasting first
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
This is the ultimate make-ahead dessert! Prepare up to 3 days in advance - the flavor actually improves as it sits. Perfect for party preparation when you want to focus on other dishes.
Leftover Ideas
Leftovers keep beautifully for up to 5 days. The texture may thicken slightly - just stir in a tablespoon of plant milk to refresh it. Great for quick breakfasts or afternoon snacks.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Whisk together all liquid ingredients until smooth and clump-free
Add chia seeds, whisk vigorously, let sit 5 minutes, then whisk again
Refrigerate to set, stirring occasionally if possible for even texture
Final stir before serving, adjust consistency if needed, add toppings
High Protein Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
This rich and creamy chocolate chia seed pudding is packed with plant-based protein, making it the perfect healthy dessert or satisfying snack that feels indulgent but nourishes your body.
Timing
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
0 Minutes
Total Time
4 Hours 5 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Pudding Base
- 01 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 02 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 03 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 04 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 05 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla plant-based protein powder
- 06 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 07 Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings
- 01 Fresh berries
- 02 Sliced bananas
- 03 Chopped nuts
- 04 Coconut flakes
- 05 Extra drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, cocoa powder, protein powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt until completely smooth and no clumps remain.
Add the chia seeds to the mixture and whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to break up any clumps that may have formed. This second whisking is crucial for smooth texture.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The pudding will thicken as the chia seeds absorb the liquid.
Before serving, give the pudding a good stir to redistribute any settled seeds. If it seems too thick, you can stir in an additional tablespoon or two of almond milk.
Serve chilled with your favorite toppings. This makes a wonderful dessert or even a movie night snack that feels special but is actually good for you.
Notes & Tips
- 1 For best results, use fresh chia seeds - older seeds may not thicken properly
- 2 If you don't have protein powder, you can omit it but the protein content will be lower
- 3 The pudding will continue to thicken over time - adjust consistency with more milk if needed
- 4 This recipe scales easily for meal prep or party planning
Tools You'll Need
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Medium mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Airtight storage containers
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Spatula for scraping
Must-Know Tips
- Whisk thoroughly - this prevents clumps in your pudding
- Be patient - the setting time is essential for perfect texture
- Taste before serving - adjust sweetness to your preference
- Store properly - airtight container prevents drying out
Professional Secrets
- Fresh ingredients - ensures optimal absorption and flavor
- Proper whisking technique - incorporates air and prevents lumps
- Consistent temperature - refrigeration ensures even setting
- Quality protein powder - dissolves better and tastes cleaner
Recipe by
Mason Cole“Sweet cravings are my specialty! I turn sugar, chocolate, and imagination into pure dessert magic.” 🍰✨
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