I was introduced to chia seed pudding a few years ago and instantly fell in love with it. A healthy alternative to regular pudding? Yes please! I love to “say hello” to my favorite foods that aren’t so healthy for you, so this was perfect for me. I tried a few chia seed pudding recipes and started developing my own. Most of the recipes I found didn’t have added protein, so I decided to boost mine with protein. Chia Seed Protein Pudding tastes healthy. It’s packed with healthy nutrients, making it a great choice for breakfast or a healthy dessert.
Chia seeds are a good source of plant-based omega-3s, calcium, fiber, and iron. They also have small amounts of phosphorus, manganese, potassium, and copper. I love its “crunchy” texture. They almost remind me of tapioca but are so much healthier for you.
Chia seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. I recommend eating them after they’ve been soaked (as in a pudding recipe) or cooked because these seeds expand once they’ve hydrated. Eating them dry can cause them to swell in your throat, which can give you a bit of a strange feeling. One of the great benefits is the fiber content which will help give you a feeling of fullness which leads to better satiety.
Chia Protein Pudding Recipe 1: Vanilla, Almond + Coconut
For 4 people:
8 tablespoons of chia seeds
2 cups of almond milk (or milk of your choice)
2 tablespoons Madagascar vanilla extract (I love this vanilla extract for its deep flavor)
4 tablespoons shredded coconut (plus a little more for sprinkling on top)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
4 scoops protein powder (I used grass-fed vanilla whey, but you can use your favorite animal or plant-based protein powder, about 20g per scoop)
4T Almonds
*If you like a creamier flavor, use Califia Farms Vanilla Flavored Almond Milk or Califia Farms Coconut Milk and Roasted Almonds for a richer flavor.
As:
– Mix together the seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, coconut, and maple syrup until fully combined.
– Add protein powder and mix with a whisk to break it up. Keep mixing until there are no clumps of protein powder in the mixture.
– In equal parts in 4 cups and place in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
– Take out of the fridge and stir each chia seed protein pudding to make sure the chia seeds are fully incorporated (sometimes they sink to the bottom).
– Return to the fridge and let sit for a few hours or overnight until the mixture turns into a pudding or gel.
– When ready to eat, sprinkle almonds and extra coconut on top and enjoy.
Chia Protein Pudding Recipe 2: Double Chocolate Cocoa
For 4 people:
4 scoops of chocolate protein (animal or plant-based)
4 tablespoons cacao nibs (plus extra for garnish)
4 tablespoons chocolate covered hemp seeds (you can use semi-sweet chips but you won’t get the benefits of hemp)
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
8 tablespoons of chia seeds
2 cups of almond milk
*If you like chocolate + peanut butter, add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter (or almond butter) to the mix for that chocolate + nutty flavor.
As:
Use the same instructions above for the Vanilla Almond Coconut Pudding.
Once the pudding is finished, sprinkle cocoa nibs on top and enjoy!
I make these recipes often for breakfast because they are an easy make-ahead option. You can then eat quickly or grab and go before heading out the door. I also enjoy them as a healthy snack or dessert if I’m craving something a little sweet. Enjoy them however you like and feel free to get creative with the recipes however you see fit.