If you are looking for a delicious and nutritious treat that feels indulgent but fuels your body, this High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with protein, rich cocoa flavor, and creamy peanut butter, it offers a satisfying texture that makes for an excellent breakfast, snack, or dessert. The chia seeds soak up all those luscious flavors while adding a pleasant gel-like consistency that’s both refreshing and filling. I promise you, once you try this pudding, it will quickly become a favorite go-to for any time of the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple pantry staples you might already have, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition. The combination of creamy peanut butter, rich cocoa, and nutrient-dense chia seeds makes this pudding both decadently chocolatey and naturally thickened to perfection.
- ½ cup (80 g) chia seeds: These tiny powerhouses thicken the pudding and add fiber and omega-3s.
- 2 cups (480 ml) unsweetened non-dairy milk: Soy, oat, or almond milk are perfect for a creamy, dairy-free base.
- ¼ cup (60 g) natural peanut butter: Adds rich, nutty creaminess and a boost of protein.
- 3 Tbsp (18 g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor without added sugar.
- 1–2 Tbsp (15–30 ml) maple syrup or honey: Provides just the right amount of natural sweetness.
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
- Optional: 1 scoop (~30 g) chocolate protein powder: For an extra protein punch that keeps you powered throughout the day.
How to Make High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Blend the liquid ingredients
Start by combining your unsweetened non-dairy milk, creamy peanut butter, sweetener like maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and if you’re using it, a scoop of chocolate protein powder. Blend these together either in a blender for about 30 seconds or whisk vigorously by hand for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is perfectly smooth and free of any peanut butter streaks. This step is key for ensuring your pudding will be smooth and nicely incorporated.
Step 2: Incorporate the cocoa powder
Next, add the unsweetened cocoa powder to your blended liquid mixture. Give it another whirl or a vigorous whisk until all the cocoa is dissolved and the mixture turns into a shiny, uniform chocolate color. This helps in getting that classic rich chocolate flavor seamlessly spread through the pudding.
Step 3: Fold in the chia seeds
Pour your luscious chocolate-peanut butter blend into a large bowl and gently fold in the chia seeds using a spatula or whisk. It’s important to coat every chia seed to avoid clumps and ensure even hydration. Chia seeds love soaking up liquid, so this even coating allows for the perfect pudding texture after chilling.
Step 4: Portion and chill
Divide the mixture evenly into four 8-ounce mason jars or airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Seal them tightly and place in the refrigerator for a minimum of four hours. If you have the time, letting it chill overnight will yield the creamiest, most luscious pudding with just the right thickness.
Step 5: Stir and enjoy
When you’re ready to indulge, give each jar a good stir to redistribute any settled chia seeds. Your High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is now ready for toppings or to be eaten as is. It’s thick, chocolatey, and simply irresistible.
How to Serve High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
This pudding is already rich and creamy but topping it with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries elevates the freshness and adds a pop of natural sweetness. Chopped nuts provide a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of almond butter or coconut flakes introduce extra layers of flavor and texture that make every bite interesting and satisfying.
Side Dishes
Pairing this pudding with a handful of crunchy granola or a warm slice of whole-grain toast can turn it into a balanced and hearty breakfast. If serving as a snack or dessert, light and fresh fruit salads or a small cup of herbal tea beautifully complement the richness, keeping your palate refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pudding layered with whipped coconut cream and crushed nuts in clear glasses to showcase each delicious layer. Mason jars with personalized labels make wonderful gifts or meal-prep treats. You can also blend in a bit of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor that’s delightful for coffee lovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your pudding refrigerated for up to five days in an airtight container. The chia seeds only get better with time, absorbing more liquid and improving texture. Just give it a good stir before serving to freshen it up.
Freezing
This pudding is best enjoyed chilled rather than frozen since the texture may change when thawed. However, if you want to freeze portions, do so in airtight containers and thaw slowly overnight in the fridge. Stir well before eating to help restore creaminess.
Reheating
Since this pudding is meant to be eaten cold, reheating isn’t typically recommended. If you prefer a warm treat, consider gently heating a spoonful of the pudding mixed into hot almond milk to create a cozy, chocolatey drink instead.
FAQs
Can I use dairy milk instead of non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! Dairy milk will work fine and add a bit more creaminess, but non-dairy options like soy or oat milk keep this recipe vegan and light.
What if I don’t have peanut butter? Can I substitute it?
Yes, you can use almond butter or cashew butter as alternatives. Each nut butter will slightly change the flavor profile but keep the pudding just as delicious and creamy.
Is it necessary to add protein powder?
Adding protein powder is optional and depends on your nutritional goals. The chia seeds and peanut butter already provide a decent amount of protein, but the powder boosts it especially if you’re looking for a post-workout boost or extra satiety.
Can I sweeten the pudding with stevia or other sugar substitutes?
Yes, you can tailor the sweetness to your taste using alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just be mindful of the conversion as some sweeteners are much sweeter than sugar or maple syrup.
How thick should the pudding be after chilling?
The pudding should be pleasantly thick and spoonable, similar in texture to custard. If it’s too runny, it likely just needs more time to chill or you might need to add a little more chia seeds next time.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding Recipe is a joyful way to enjoy a healthy dish that satisfies your chocolate cravings while nourishing your body. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation mean you can whip it up anytime and customize it to your liking. Give it a try—you might find it soon becomes a staple in your recipe collection and a delightful part of your daily routine.
Print
High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (mostly chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: No-Cook
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This High-Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding is a creamy, nutrient-packed dessert or breakfast option that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and cocoa with the health benefits of chia seeds. Enhanced with optional chocolate protein powder, it offers a delicious way to fuel your day with plant-based protein and fiber, all without any cooking required.
Ingredients
Chia Seed Pudding Base
- ½ cup (80 g) chia seeds
- 2 cups (480 ml) unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy, oat, or almond recommended)
- ¼ cup (60 g) natural peanut butter
- 3 Tbsp (18 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 Tbsp (15–30 ml) maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 scoop (~30 g) chocolate protein powder
Instructions
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In your blender or mixing bowl, combine the non-dairy milk, peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and optional protein powder. Blend or whisk vigorously until completely smooth and free of peanut butter streaks—about 30 seconds in a blender or 1–2 minutes by hand.
- Add Cocoa Powder: Add the unsweetened cocoa powder to the liquid mixture. Blend or whisk again until fully dissolved with no dry pockets, forming a uniform and glossy chocolate mixture.
- Incorporate Chia Seeds: Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture into a large bowl. Add chia seeds and fold in with a spatula or whisk, ensuring every seed is coated to prevent clumping and promote even hydration.
- Refrigerate to Set: Divide the mixture evenly into four 8-oz (240 ml) mason jars or airtight containers, leaving a bit of headspace. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours; however, overnight chilling (8 hours) yields the best texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to eat, stir each jar well to redistribute any settled chia seeds. Add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of almond butter, then enjoy.
Notes
- The recipe uses unsweetened non-dairy milk for a dairy-free and vegan-friendly base, but you can substitute with regular milk if preferred.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or any other liquid sweetener of your choice.
- The optional chocolate protein powder adds extra protein and enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted for a simpler version.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and achieve a pudding-like texture; overnight is best for thickest consistency.
- Customize toppings to your liking with fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or nut butters.
