High Protein Chocolate Pudding is a delightful treat that combines the rich, chocolatey flavor we all love with a boost of protein. It’s smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough to satisfy your chocolate cravings without any guilt. This pudding is made with simple ingredients but packs a powerful punch to keep you feeling full and energized.
I love making this pudding as a quick snack or a dessert after dinner. It’s one of those recipes where I can have my chocolate fix and also know I’m fueling my body with something good. A little tip I’ve found is to chill it well before eating—it gets even better when it’s nice and cold!
Whenever I serve this pudding, friends always ask for the recipe. It’s easy to make and a fantastic way to enjoy chocolate without the usual sugar overload. Plus, it’s perfect for anyone looking to add more protein to their day in a tasty way. I often enjoy it with a few fresh berries or a sprinkle of nuts on top to add a bit of crunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is key for creaminess and protein. I recommend plain to keep it healthy, but you can swap for dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Chocolate Protein Powder: This gives the pudding its protein boost. Whey works well, but plant-based options like pea or brown rice protein are great too. Match the powder to your taste and diet.
Chia Seeds: They thicken the pudding while adding fiber and more protein. If you don’t have chia, ground flaxseed can work, but chia gives the best pudding texture.
Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup are natural choices. You can adjust the amount based on how sweet you like it or use stevia or monk fruit for fewer calories.
Milk: Low-fat milk makes it creamy without extra fat. Almond or other plant milks work fine, just check for added sugars if you want to keep it light.
How Do I Get My Pudding Thick and Creamy Without Cooking?
This pudding thickens thanks mostly to chia seeds absorbing liquid and Greek yogurt blending in smoothness. Here’s what I do:
- Whisk all ingredients well so the chia seeds don’t clump.
- Let the mixture chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight. This waiting time is what lets the chia expand, thickening the pudding naturally.
- Before serving, stir the pudding to smooth out any lumps. If it’s too thick, just add a splash of milk until the texture feels right.
Patience is key here. The pudding tastes best cold and set, so chilling it well really makes a difference.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl – I like using a large bowl to whisk everything easily and avoid messes.
- Whisk or fork – helps blend the ingredients smoothly and break up any clumps of cocoa or protein powder.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the ingredients just right without guesswork.
- Plastic wrap or cover – covers the bowl while chilling for a few hours so the pudding stays fresh and absorbs flavors.
- Serving glasses or small bowls – perfect for presenting and enjoying your pudding.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap berries for sliced bananas or strawberries to change up the topping and flavor profile.
- Add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter into the mix for a nutty twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Mix in some chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for extra crunch and richness.
- Stir a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to give the pudding a warming or spicy note—great for adult-tasting treats.
High Protein Chocolate Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup low-fat milk (or almond milk)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and protein)
- 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (for thickness and extra protein)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh raspberries and blueberries (for topping)
- Dark chocolate shavings (for garnish)
- A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours (or overnight) to chill in the fridge. The chilling time lets the chia seeds absorb liquid and thicken the pudding, so plan ahead for the best creamy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is smooth and well combined.
2. Chill and Thicken:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight. This gives the chia seeds time to absorb the liquid and help the pudding thicken into a creamy texture.
3. Stir and Adjust:
Before serving, give the pudding a good stir to smooth out any lumps. If it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk and stir again until you get the perfect consistency.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the pudding into glasses or bowls. Top each serving with fresh raspberries, blueberries, a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream, some dark chocolate shavings, and a fresh mint leaf if you like.
5. Enjoy Your Healthy Treat:
Serve chilled and enjoy your high protein chocolate pudding! It’s a tasty and nutritious dessert or snack that’s rich, creamy, and satisfying.
Can I Use Plant-Based Milk in This Pudding?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or soy milk work great as dairy-free alternatives. Just choose unsweetened versions to keep the sweetness balanced.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pudding?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, and add a splash of milk if it thickened too much.
Can I Prepare This Pudding Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it the night before is best. The chia seeds need at least 2 hours to thicken, but chilling overnight results in the creamiest texture.
What If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
You can try using ground flaxseeds, but the texture might be a little different. Alternatively, increase the Greek yogurt slightly for added thickness.
