This pudding tastes like dessert but fuels you like a balanced snack. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and peanut buttery, with a rich texture that sets up beautifully in the fridge. You can make it in five minutes with pantry staples and let the chia seeds do the rest.

It works for breakfast, post-workout, or an afternoon pick-me-up. No cooking, no fuss, just simple ingredients that come together fast.

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What Makes This Recipe So Good

Overhead shot of chocolate peanut butter chia protein pudding after chilling, spooned into two small

Balanced and filling: Protein, healthy fats, and fiber keep you satisfied for hours.
Customizable: Adjust sweetness, add toppings, or swap milks to fit your taste and needs.
Meal-prep friendly: Mix, chill, and you’re set for days.
Dessert vibes: It tastes like a peanut butter cup but with better ingredients.
No special equipment: A jar and a spoon are all you need.

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or dairy, oat, or soy milk)
3 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
1 scoop chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Optional toppings: sliced banana, chopped peanuts, dark chocolate shavings, cacao nibs, granola

Step-by-Step Instructions

Close-up macro detail of the pudding being stirred during the “rest and stir” step in a clear mi

Warm the peanut butter slightly. If it’s thick, microwave for 10–15 seconds so it mixes easily.
Mix the base. In a bowl or large jar, whisk milk, peanut butter, protein powder, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Break up any clumps.
Add chia seeds. Stir in chia seeds thoroughly, making sure they’re evenly dispersed so the pudding sets evenly.
Rest and stir. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
Chill to set. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a thicker, creamier texture.
Adjust texture. If it’s too thick, whisk in a splash of milk.
If it’s too thin, add 1 teaspoon more chia seeds and chill another 20–30 minutes.
Serve and top. Spoon into bowls or jars and add your favorite toppings.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
Meal prep: Portion into single-serve jars for grab-and-go breakfasts.
Freezer: Not recommended; the texture becomes icy and grainy.

Why This is Good for You

Protein support: Protein powder plus peanut butter helps with satiety and muscle repair.
Heart-healthy fats: Peanut butter and chia seeds deliver monounsaturated and omega-3 fats.
Fiber boost: Chia seeds are rich in soluble fiber, which supports digestion and steady energy.
Lower-sugar option: You control the sweetness and avoid hidden additives.

What Not to Do

Don’t skip the second stir. If you don’t stir after the first 10 minutes, you’ll get chia clumps.
Don’t over-sweeten early. Protein powders vary in sweetness. Taste after mixing before adding more syrup.
Don’t add boiling liquids. Very hot liquid can affect texture and make the mixture separate.
Don’t use chunky, dry peanut butter without thinning. It won’t blend smoothly and can leave gritty bits.

Variations You Can Try

Almond twist: Swap peanut butter for almond butter and top with toasted almonds.
Mocha version: Add 1–2 teaspoons instant espresso powder to the mix.
Banana cream: Mash half a ripe banana into the base and reduce sweetener.
Coconut delight: Use coconut milk, add shredded coconut, and top with toasted coconut flakes.
PB&J: Swirl in 1 tablespoon of berry chia jam or a few crushed raspberries before chilling.
Crunch factor: Finish with cacao nibs or crushed peanuts for texture.

FAQ

Can I make this without protein powder?

Yes. Add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for flavor and 1–2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or 1 tablespoon hemp hearts for more protein.

You may need a little extra sweetener to balance the cocoa.

What milk works best?

Unsweetened almond milk keeps it light, while soy or dairy milk makes it creamier and boosts protein. Oat milk is great for sweetness but lower in protein.

How long does it need to set?

At least 2 hours for a soft set. Overnight gives the best, thickest texture.

Is it good for meal prep?

Absolutely.

Portion into 2–3 jars, add lids, and store for up to 5 days. Add crunchy toppings right before eating.

Can I use powdered peanut butter (PB2)?

Yes. Use 2–3 tablespoons PB powder and add an extra 1–2 teaspoons of peanut butter or a small splash of milk for creaminess.

How do I make it sweeter without sugar?

Use a ripe mashed banana, a few drops of stevia, or vanilla-flavored protein powder.

Why is my pudding runny?

You may have used too little chia or too much liquid.

Stir in 1 teaspoon more chia seeds and chill for 20–30 minutes. Also make sure your protein powder fully dissolves.

Wrapping Up

Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Protein Pudding is simple, satisfying, and endlessly flexible. With a few everyday ingredients, you get a creamy, grab-and-go treat that also happens to be nourishing.

Make a batch tonight, and tomorrow you’ll have an easy breakfast, snack, or post-workout boost ready to go. Top it your way and enjoy.