Dessert

High Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe

Name: High Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 scoop plant-based/vegan protein powder (chocolate or vanilla flavor); 1 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk); 3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, to taste); Pinch of sea salt; Coconut whip; Cacao nibs; Fresh berries; Dark chocolate shavings; Dairy-free yogurt; Sliced banana; Spoonful of peanut butter

ByLila Prescott October 19, 2025October 19, 2025

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Introduction

This High Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding is a delicious and nourishing treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. Packed with plant-based protein and rich cocoa flavor, it’s easy to make and wonderfully creamy.

A clear glass cup filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer is dark brown chocolate chia pudding with small black chia seeds giving it a speckled texture, the middle layer blends into a smooth, slightly lighter brown chocolate pudding that fills the cup almost to the top, and the top layer is a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with cocoa powder. Next to the whipped cream is a thin, dark brown chocolate shard standing upright. The cup is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, to taste)

Pinch of sea salt
Optional toppings: coconut whip, cacao nibs, berries, or dark chocolate

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl or jar, whisk together the plant-based milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth.

Step 2: Stir in the chia seeds evenly.
Step 3: Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping and ensure the chia seeds distribute evenly.
Step 4: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. The pudding will thicken to a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Before serving, give it a quick stir and top with your favorite additions such as coconut whip, cacao nibs, fresh berries, or dark chocolate shavings.

Tips & Variations

Use different plant-based milks to vary the flavor and creaminess, like oat milk for a naturally sweet touch.
Swap maple syrup with honey if you’re not strictly vegan.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a warm, spicy twist.
Mix in fresh fruit or nut butters for extra texture and flavor.

Storage

Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, and you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. For best texture, avoid freezing as it may alter the chia seeds’ consistency.

How to Serve

A clear glass cup filled with a thick, dark brown chocolate chia pudding that shows the texture of small chia seeds suspended throughout. The pudding is topped with a swirl of white whipped cream dusted with fine cocoa powder, positioned to one side, and a thin, dark chocolate shard is stuck upright into the pudding near the cream. The smooth surface of the pudding is glossy in some spots, with a dollop slightly raised in the center, all set against a background of white marble texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular protein powder instead of plant-based?

Yes, you can substitute with any protein powder you prefer, but plant-based powders keep the recipe vegan-friendly.

How thick will the pudding be after chilling?

After refrigeration, the pudding should be thick and creamy, similar to a mousse. If it’s too thick, stir in a little more plant-based milk to reach your desired consistency.