This high protein chocolate chia pudding is one of my favorite ways to satisfy a chocolate craving while still keeping things wholesome. Creamy, rich, and packed with plant-based protein, it works beautifully as breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even a healthy dessert. I love how easy it is to prepare ahead of time—perfect for busy mornings or quick energy boosts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
¼ cup vegan protein powder (chocolate or unflavored)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: berries, cacao nibs, nut butter, granola
Directions
I whisk together the protein powder, cocoa powder, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl or mason jar until the mixture is fully smooth.
Then I stir in the chia seeds, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
I let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together.
After that, I cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours—or overnight—for the best texture.
Before serving, I give it one last stir and top it with whatever I’m craving: berries, nut butter, or crunchy granola always hit the spot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours
Calories per serving: 280 kcal
Variations
Sometimes I use flavored protein powders like vanilla or salted caramel to change things up. If I want a mocha vibe, I add a pinch of instant coffee. I also like swapping out the almond milk for oat or coconut milk for a slightly different texture and flavor. When I want to boost the healthy fats, I stir in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter.
Storage/Reheating
I store the pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. It’s great for meal prep, and I usually portion it into small jars ahead of time. I don’t reheat it, since it’s meant to be eaten chilled, but I do give it a quick stir before adding toppings and digging in.
FAQs
Can I use a different milk?
Yes, I often swap almond milk for oat, soy, or even coconut milk. Any plant-based milk works, but I like choosing one that pairs well with chocolate.
What kind of protein powder is best?
I usually use a clean, plant-based protein powder—either chocolate for an extra boost or unflavored so the cocoa shines. Pea or hemp protein both work well.
Is this sweet enough?
For me, the maple syrup adds the perfect amount of sweetness, but I adjust it depending on the protein powder. Some powders are already sweetened, so I use less maple syrup when that’s the case.
Can I make a larger batch?
Absolutely. I often double or triple the recipe and store individual portions in jars for the week. It’s great for grab-and-go breakfasts.
How do I know when it’s ready?
The pudding should be thick and spoonable after chilling. If it still seems runny after 2 hours, I let it sit a bit longer or add a bit more chia seeds and chill it again.
Conclusion
This high protein chocolate chia pudding is one of those simple recipes I keep in regular rotation. Whether I’m fueling up after a workout or winding down with a sweet treat, it checks every box: nutritious, quick, and absolutely delicious.
📖 Recipe:
High Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This high protein chocolate chia pudding is a creamy, rich, and nutritious recipe that's perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert. Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, it's easy to prep ahead for busy mornings or satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
¼ cup vegan protein powder (chocolate or unflavored)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: berries, cacao nibs, nut butter, granola
Instructions
- In a bowl or mason jar, whisk together the protein powder, cocoa powder, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the chia seeds until evenly distributed.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Before serving, stir once more and add desired toppings such as berries, nut butter, or granola.
Notes
Use flavored protein powders like vanilla or salted caramel for variations.
Add instant coffee for a mocha flavor.
Swap almond milk with oat or coconut milk for different flavor and texture.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
No need to reheat—serve chilled and stir before eating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pudding
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
