This creamy chocolate chia pudding is the kind of recipe you make once—and then keep on repeat. It’s rich, smooth, chocolatey, and packed with extra protein, yet it requires no blender, no cooking, and minimal effort.
If you’ve tried chocolate chia pudding before and found it watery, gritty, or not filling enough, this version fixes all of that. By combining chia seeds with cocoa powder and protein powder, you get a high protein pudding that works as a healthy breakfast, a vegan dessert, or an easy meal prep recipe for busy weeks.
This recipe also fits perfectly into popular searches like chocolate chia seed pudding, protein pudding, and high protein desserts, while staying simple and budget-friendly.
Table of Contents
What Makes This Chocolate Chia Pudding Extra Creamy?
The secret to a truly creamy chocolate chia pudding is balance. Many recipes use too many chia seeds or not enough liquid, which leads to a thick, gel-like texture.
This recipe:
- Uses the right chia-to-liquid ratio
- Whisks cocoa powder and protein powder properly
- Rests and stirs twice to avoid clumps
The result is a smooth, spoonable chocolate chia seed pudding that feels indulgent but still counts as a healthy chia pudding recipe.
Why Add Extra Protein to Chocolate Chia Pudding?
Adding protein transforms basic chia pudding into a high protein meal instead of just a snack.
Benefits of a High Protein Chocolate Chia Pudding
- Keeps you full longer
- Helps stabilize energy levels
- Makes a better breakfast or post-workout option
This is why protein pudding and protein powder recipes are trending so strongly on Pinterest and Google.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- Chia seeds
- Unsweetened plant-based milk
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Maple syrup or preferred sweetener
- Vanilla extract
For Extra Protein
- Plant-based protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
These ingredients are affordable, easy to find, and perfect for budget-friendly recipes and easy campus eats.
How to Make Chocolate Chia Pudding (No Blender)
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl or jar, whisk together chia seeds, cocoa powder, and protein powder until fully combined.
Step 2: Add the Liquid
Pour in plant-based milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly for 30–45 seconds.
Step 3: Rest and Stir Again
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent chia clumps.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Serve
Stir once more before serving. Add toppings if desired.
Creamy Chocolate Chia Pudding With Extra Protein (No Blender)
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or preferred sweetener
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp plant-based protein powder chocolate or vanilla
Method
- In a bowl or jar, whisk together the chia seeds, cocoa powder, and protein powder until evenly combined.
- Add the plant-based milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly for 30–45 seconds.
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent chia clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until thick and creamy.
- Stir once more before serving. Add toppings if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!If you love make-ahead breakfasts, you’ll also want to try my easy chia seed pudding recipe for more simple meal prep ideas: easy-chia-seed-pudding-recipe/
Is Chocolate Chia Pudding Healthy?
Calories & Nutrition Facts
While exact calories and nutrition facts depend on ingredients used, chocolate chia pudding is generally:
- High in fiber
- Rich in plant-based protein
- Naturally gluten-free
Is It Weight Loss Friendly?
This high protein chocolate chia pudding can be weight loss friendly when eaten in reasonable portions, thanks to its fiber and protein content that support fullness.
A Balanced Diet Option
When paired with fruit or nuts, it fits well into a balanced diet without feeling restrictive.
Chocolate Chia Pudding vs Protein Pudding
Chocolate Chia Pudding
- Made with chia seeds
- Higher in fiber
- Naturally thick
Protein Pudding
- Often dairy-based
- Smoother texture
- Less fiber
This recipe gives you the best of both worlds: the nutrition of chia pudding with the satisfaction of a protein dessert.
Vegan Chia Pudding Variations
- High Protein Vegan Chocolate Chia Pudding (use soy milk for more protein)
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Pudding
- Mocha Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
- Chocolate Raspberry Chia Pudding
All variations remain vegan and work well for high protein desserts.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
- Store in airtight jars for up to 5 days
- Ideal for make-ahead breakfasts
- Great cold or slightly warmed
This makes it a top choice for meal prep ideas and healthy chia pudding recipes.
FAQ – People Also Ask
Can you make chocolate chia pudding without a blender?
Yes. This recipe is designed to be mixed by hand and still turn out creamy.
Is chocolate chia pudding vegan?
Yes, when made with plant-based milk and vegan protein powder.
How do I make chia pudding thicker?
Add more chia seeds or let it chill longer.
Can I skip the protein powder?
Yes, but it will no longer be a high protein pudding.
Is chocolate chia seed pudding good for dessert?
Absolutely. Its rich flavor makes it perfect as a healthy dessert.
Conclusion
This creamy chocolate chia pudding with extra protein proves that healthy food can still feel indulgent. It’s smooth, satisfying, and easy enough for everyday life—no blender required. Whether you’re looking for a high protein dessert, a vegan chia pudding, or a simple breakfast that actually keeps you full, this recipe delivers.
👉 Don’t forget to explore our other high protein desserts and meal prep ideas for more easy, nourishing recipes.