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Are you ready to enjoy a rich and creamy dessert that’s packed with protein? This High Protein Chocolate Pudding is not just a sweet treat—it’s a smart choice for health-conscious eaters. In this quick and easy recipe, you’ll learn the simple steps to create a delicious pudding that satisfies your cravings and boosts your protein intake. Let’s dive in and whip up a dessert you won’t feel guilty about!
Why I Love This Recipe
- High Protein Boost: This pudding is packed with protein from the protein powder and chia seeds, making it a great snack for muscle recovery and energy.
- Deliciously Chocolatey: The rich chocolate flavor from the cocoa powder and optional toppings makes this dessert feel indulgent without the guilt.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals who still want a nutritious treat.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like bananas, nuts, or coconut for extra texture and flavor, making each serving unique!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for High Protein Chocolate Pudding
To make high protein chocolate pudding, you need a few key ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of sea salt
These ingredients work together to create a rich, creamy pudding that is also nutritious. The almond milk keeps it light, while the protein powder boosts the protein content. Cocoa powder gives it a deep chocolate flavor. Chia seeds add texture and help thicken the mix.
Optional Toppings for Enhanced Flavor
You can make your pudding even better with some fun toppings:
– Sliced bananas
– Crushed nuts
– Coconut flakes
These toppings not only add flavor but also provide extra nutrients. Enjoy the crunchy nuts or the soft bananas on top of your pudding for a great contrast.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Dietary Needs
If you have dietary needs, you can swap out some ingredients.
– Instead of almond milk, try oat milk or soy milk for a nut-free option.
– You can use agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a vegan sweetener.
– For a lower-calorie option, choose a low-calorie protein powder.
These swaps help you enjoy the pudding while fitting your diet. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Preparation Instructions
1. Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl.
2. Pour in 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk.
3. Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
4. Next, mix in 1/4 cup of protein powder. You can use chocolate or vanilla.
5. Add 1/4 cup of maple syrup or honey for sweetness.
6. Toss in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds.
7. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
8. Whisk all the ingredients until smooth and well combined.
9. Pour the mixture into a blender. Blend it for about 15 seconds.
10. Transfer the pudding mixture into serving containers or one bowl.
11. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Tips for Blending the Mixture
– Make sure to blend the mixture well. This helps the chia seeds distribute evenly.
– If you find it thick, you can add a little more almond milk.
– A high-speed blender works best for a smooth texture.
– Blend just enough to mix. You don’t want to over-blend.
Methods to Ensure Proper Chilling and Thickening
– Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours. Overnight is even better.
– The chia seeds will absorb liquid and thicken the pudding.
– After chilling, stir the pudding to mix it well.
– If it seems too thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen it.
Tips & Tricks
How to Adjust Sweetness and Flavor
You can easily change the sweetness of your pudding. If you like it sweeter, add more maple syrup or honey. Start with one tablespoon. Mix it in and taste. You can keep adding until it’s just right for you. For a richer chocolate flavor, add a bit more cocoa powder. Just a teaspoon can make a big difference.
Recommendations for Achieving the Best Texture
To get a smooth and creamy pudding, blend the mixture well. After whisking, blend it for about 15 seconds. This helps break down the chia seeds. They add thickness but can feel grainy if not blended enough. Letting the pudding chill for at least two hours also helps. The chia seeds will swell and create a nice, thick texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Making Pudding
One common mistake is not blending enough. If you skip the blender, your pudding may be lumpy. Always blend for the best result. Another mistake is not letting it chill long enough. If you eat it right away, it might be too runny. Lastly, be careful with cocoa powder. Using too much can make the pudding too bitter. Stick to the amount in the recipe for a balanced taste.
Pro Tips
- Chia Seed Soak: Allow the chia seeds to soak longer than the minimum time to achieve a creamier texture.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the mixture before refrigerating and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Protein Powder Choice: Experiment with different flavors of protein powder to customize the pudding’s taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with a mix of sliced fruits and nuts for added flavor and nutrition.

Variations
Vegan and Dairy-Free Substitutions
To make this pudding vegan and dairy-free, swap the milk. Use almond milk or coconut milk. Both will give a creamy texture. You can also replace maple syrup with agave nectar. This will keep it sweet without honey.
Adding Extra Protein: Ingredients to Include
Want more protein? You can add Greek yogurt or silken tofu for creaminess. Each adds protein without changing the taste much. You can also sprinkle in more chia seeds. They boost the protein and add fiber too.
Flavor Variations: Other Chocolate or Fruit Options
Feel free to mix up the flavors! Try using dark cocoa powder for a richer taste. You can also add peanut butter for a nutty kick. For a fruity twist, blend in some mashed bananas or berries. These add sweetness and a fun flavor.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Refrigerating Leftovers
To keep your high protein chocolate pudding fresh, store it in the fridge. Use airtight containers to prevent any odors from mixing in. Label each container with the date so you know when you made it. It’s best to eat the pudding within a few days for the best flavor.
Freezing Options and Thawing Instructions
You can freeze the pudding if you have extra. Divide it into smaller portions for easy thawing. Place the pudding in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, take it out and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Avoid re-freezing it once it’s thawed, as this can change the texture.
Shelf Life: How Long Will It Last?
When stored correctly, the pudding lasts about 5 days in the fridge. If frozen, it can last for up to 3 months. Always check for any changes in smell or texture before eating. If it looks or smells off, it’s best to throw it away.
FAQs
What is the protein content in high protein chocolate pudding?
This pudding packs a punch with protein. Each serving has about 10 to 15 grams, depending on your protein powder. I use chocolate or vanilla protein powder to boost the flavor and protein. The chia seeds also add a little extra protein. This makes it a great snack or dessert for anyone needing more protein in their diet.
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any milk you like! I often swap almond milk for oat, soy, or regular dairy milk. Each milk changes the flavor and texture a bit. If you want a creamier pudding, choose whole milk or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that this may change the calorie count.
How can I make this pudding without added sugars?
To skip added sugars, use ripe bananas or unsweetened applesauce. They add natural sweetness without any extra sugar. You can also use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a low-calorie option. Adjust the amount to fit your taste. Just make sure to mix well to get the right flavor.
In this article, we explored how to make high protein chocolate pudding. We discussed the main ingredients, tips for blending, and ways to enhance flavor. I shared common mistakes to avoid and variations for different diets. Remember to store your pudding properly to keep it fresh. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty treat that fits your needs. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious puddin
High Protein Chocolate Pudding
A delicious and nutritious chocolate pudding packed with protein and healthy ingredients.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 quarter cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 quarter cup protein powder
- 1 quarter cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch sea salt
- optional toppings: sliced bananas, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the almond milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour the mixture into a blender for about 15 seconds to ensure that all the ingredients are blended thoroughly and the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
Once blended, transfer the pudding mixture to individual serving containers or a single bowl.
Cover the containers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the chia seeds to expand and the pudding to thicken.
Once set, remove from the fridge, give it a good stir, and adjust sweetness if needed.
Serve as is, or top with sliced bananas, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Refrigerate overnight for best results.
Keyword chocolate pudding, healthy dessert, high-protein
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