Creamy. Chocolatey. Crave-worthy. And packed with protein.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average chia pudding. This is dessert-meets-breakfast with muscle-building benefits. If you’ve been trying to cut sugar, keep it high-protein, and still enjoy a chocolate fix… you just found your new obsession.
It’s thick. It’s indulgent. And it tastes like chocolate mousse got married to your favorite protein shake.
Perfect for:
- Busy mornings
- Mid-afternoon slumps
- Cravings after dinner
- Hormonal snack attacks (hello PMS savior)
The Protein Power Behind It
Let’s break it down:
- Chia seeds: Not just fiber bombs — they’ve got all 9 amino acids too.
- Protein powder: The base of muscle tone and satiety.
- Greek yogurt or cottage cheese: Adds creaminess + casein protein for slow digesting power.
- Unsweetened cocoa: Natural antioxidant hit with deep chocolate flavor.
- Optional: a shot of espresso for that mocha edge.
Total Protein?
18–30g per serving depending on your protein powder and add-ins.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chia seeds | 4 tablespoons | Whole, not ground |
| Unsweetened almond milk | 1 cup | Or any milk of choice |
| Chocolate protein powder | 1 scoop (about 25g) | Whey or plant-based |
| Greek yogurt or cottage cheese | ½ cup | Optional, for ultra creaminess |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 tablespoon | Dutch-processed for rich taste |
| Maple syrup or honey | 1 tablespoon (optional) | Or use monk fruit/stevia |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | For a flavor boost |
| Sea salt | A pinch | Elevates chocolate flavor |
| Whipped cream, chocolate shavings | For topping | Optional but visually |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whisk It Good
In a large bowl or blender:
- Add almond milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, Greek yogurt (if using), maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt.
- Whisk or blend until fully smooth and creamy. No lumps allowed!
Hack: Use a blender for the smoothest texture — it turns this into a pudding, not sludge.
Step 2: Add Chia Seeds
- Stir in chia seeds gently.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Stir again to prevent clumping.
Step 3: Chill & Thicken
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
It thickens up as the chia seeds absorb liquid. You’ll wake up to a mousse-like dream.
Step 4: Serve & Slay
- Scoop into cups.
- Add whipped cream, sprinkle cocoa or cinnamon, and place a chocolate shard on top (because aesthetics).
Variations & Customizations
| Want This? | Do This: |
|---|---|
| Lower carb | Use unsweetened almond milk + stevia |
| Vegan | Use plant protein + coconut yogurt |
| Higher protein | Add 1 scoop collagen or more Greek yogurt |
| Mocha vibe | Add 1 tsp instant coffee or a shot of espresso |
| Nutty feel | Top with almond butter or peanut butter swirl |
Storage Tips
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Make a big batch Sunday → spoon it into jars → grab-n-go all week.
- Don’t freeze — the texture will get weird.
FAQs
Q: Can I make it without protein powder?
A: You can — but it won’t be high protein. Add more Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to boost it naturally.
Q: Why is mine runny?
A: Did you wait the full 4 hours? Chia needs time. Also, some plant milks are thinner — try less liquid or use Greek yogurt to thicken.
Q: Can kids eat this?
A: Yes! Just adjust sweetness and don’t add coffee. It’s a great high-fiber snack for lunchboxes.
Q: How do I make it dessert-level creamy?
A: Blend the whole thing. Seriously. Blended chia = mousse.
Nutrition Benefits Snapshot (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 20–30g
- Carbs: 15–18g
- Fat: 10–12g
- Fiber: 10g+
High fiber. High protein. Low sugar. Guilt-free chocolate heaven.