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 has a healthy taste. 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 they are so much healthier for you.

Chia seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. I recommend eating them after they have been soaked (like in a pudding recipe) or cooked because these seeds expand once they have hydrated. Eating them dry can cause them to swell in your throat, which can make you feel a little weird. 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 chia seeds
2 cups almond milk (or whatever milk you prefer)
2 tablespoons of vanilla extract from Madagascar (I love this vanilla extract for its deep flavor).
4 tablespoons grated coconut (plus a little more to sprinkle 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 Coconut Milk and Roasted Almonds for a richer flavor.
How:

– Mix the seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, coconut and maple syrup until completely combined.
– Add the protein powder and mix with a whisk to break it up. Keep mixing until there are no clumps of protein powder left in the mixture.
– In equal parts in 4 cups and place in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
– Take each chia seed protein pudding out of the fridge and stir to make sure the chia seeds are fully incorporated (sometimes they sink to the bottom).
– Return to the refrigerator and let sit for a few hours or overnight until the mixture turns into a pudding or gel.
– When ready to eat, sprinkle extra almonds and 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 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.

How:
Use the same instructions as 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 option to make meals ahead of time. 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 have a craving for something a little sweet. Enjoy them however you like and feel free to get creative with the recipes as you see fit.