Chocolate Chia Pudding with Berries Gluten Free and Protein-Packed - Easy, Creamy, and Satisfying
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened milk (almond, oat, dairy, or coconut)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (or a zero-sugar sweetener to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt (optional, for extra protein and creaminess)
- 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder (optional; adjust sweetness if using)
- 1/2–3/4 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Optional toppings: shaved dark chocolate, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of nut butter
Instructions
- Whisk the base: In a bowl or jar, whisk the milk, cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla, and salt until the cocoa is fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add protein (optional): Stir in Greek yogurt and/or protein powder until well combined. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
- Stir in chia seeds: Sprinkle in the chia seeds and whisk for 30 seconds so they don’t clump.
- Set, then stir again: Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes, then whisk again to break up any settling seeds.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight, until thick and pudding-like.
- Serve: Stir, then layer or top with fresh berries. Add optional toppings like nuts or dark chocolate.