Smooth, creamy, and protein-packed, this high-protein chia seed pudding is perfect for breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a feel-good snack.
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One of my favorite things after a workout — whether it’s swimming laps or a quick run — is this protein chia pudding. I love that it’s just there, ready and waiting, no extra work needed. And on busy mornings? It’s a total lifesaver. With a little planning, it’s a perfect make-ahead breakfast or grab-and-go snack.
Why this recipe works
This high-protein chia pudding is perfect for meal prep, combining convenience and nourishment. Made with chia seeds, protein powder, and dairy-free yogurt, it’s rich in protein and fiber to keep you full for hours. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and super versatile (just check labels on store-bought items to be sure).
Chia seeds create a naturally thick, creamy texture, while the vanilla protein powder and yogurt give it a dessert-like flavor without being too rich. Top with fresh berries, granola, or a drizzle of nut butter, and you’ve got a balanced, easy-to-prep protein-rich breakfast (or a post-workout healthy snack) that’s ready whenever you are.
Why you'll love this Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
- Super easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients.
- Each serving is packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.
- Perfect for meal prep — make a batch, and you’re set.
- Top with fresh fruit, hemp seeds, or a drizzle of almond butter for a balanced, anytime treat.
What ingredients you'll need
- Sunwarrior Plant-Based Vanilla Protein Powder (my favorite!)—It adds delicious creaminess and a solid boost of protein.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk — Unsweetened vanilla is my go-to, but oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk work great too.
- Chia Seeds — These tiny seeds thicken up the pudding with a gel-like texture.
- Maple Syrup — Just a touch for natural sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract — Adds a nice hint of vanilla.
- Dairy-Free Yogurt — I like unsweetened vanilla yogurt for extra creaminess and a little more protein.
Optional toppings
- Fresh Berries
- Bananas Slices
- Chopped Walnuts
- Homemade Granola
- Nut Butter
- Cacao Nibs or Dark Chocolate Shavings
- Coconut Flakes
What equipment you need
In the kitchen tips
- Stir Twice for Best Texture — After mixing, let the pudding sit for 5 minutes, then give it another stir. This helps break up any clumps so it sets nice and smooth.
- Check Your Chia Seeds — If the pudding isn’t thickening, it might be due to older chia seeds, which don’t absorb liquid as well. Fresh seeds work best.
- Make Ahead — Chia pudding is perfect for meal prep. Make a few jars, and you’ll have a ready-to-go breakfast or snack waiting in the fridge.
- Layer It Up — For extra flavor and texture, try layering your toppings of choice, like granola, berries, bananas, or nut butter, between spoonfuls of pudding.
- If you’d like a nut-free option — Use oat, coconut, or hemp milk and top with sunflower seed butter, berries, or granola.
In a pinch substitutions
- Non-dairy milk options — Swap almond milk for coconut, oat, or cashew milk for a creamier texture.
- Sweeteners — Use a sweetener of choice, such as agave, honey (if you’re not vegan), or a sugar substitute like monk fruit in place of maple syrup.
- Vegan protein powder flavors — Vanilla is great, but chocolate protein powder adds a rich twist. You could also try strawberry, or chocolate peanut butter if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Yogurt alternatives — Use any dairy-free yogurt you like.
- Topping ideas — Out of fresh berries? More great options are dried fruit, banana slices shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of cacao nibs for a little crunch.
How to store this Protein Chia Seed Pudding
- Refrigerate — Store chia pudding in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 5 days.
- Portion for Grab-and-Go — If you’re prepping multiple servings, portion the pudding into individual jars so each one is ready to grab for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Add Toppings Fresh — For the best texture, add toppings like fresh berries, granola, or nut butter right before eating.
FAQ
Yes! Between the chia seeds and protein powder, you’re getting a solid protein boost.
Yes, chia pudding is full of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making it a balanced, nutritious option.
This recipe has around 17-20 grams of protein per serving, depending on your protein powder.
Yes, this creamy pudding is packed with nutrients, including omega-3s and fiber, keeping you feeling full longer.
Yes, chia pudding can support weight loss goals. It’s high in fiber and protein, which helps you feel full longer, and is low in calories when made with minimal sweeteners.
📖 Recipe
High Protein Chia Seed Pudding
Equipment
- Small mason jar or airtight container
- Mixing bowl optional, if not mixing directly from the jar
Ingredients
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 scoop vegan vanilla protein powder, I use Sunwarrior protein powder
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ cup vegan unsweetened vanilla yogurt, OR plain
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl or a mason jar, combine non-dairy milk and protein powder. Whisk until the protein powder is fully dissolved with no chunks.
- Stir in chia seeds, non-dairy yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if using), stirring until everything is well combined.
- After mixing, let the pudding sit for 5 minutes, then give it another whisk, to break up any clumps of seeds.
- Cover the bowl or jar with an airtight lid and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
- After it’s chilled, give the pudding a good stir. If it feels too thick, add a little more milk and stir again. Adjust to your liking.
- Now add your favorite toppings! Granola, berries, nut butter, or bananas, are great places to start!
Video
Notes
- Nutrition information calculated using Silk Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk, Sunwarrior Vegan Vanilla Protein Powder, and Silk Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk Yogurt.
Nutrition
This post was sponsored by Sunwarrior. I only partner with brands and products I genuinely love, and I’m excited to share this one with you. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep Becoming You With Julie growing. 🧡
Dianne Brock says
I liked this! . If I make enough servings to divide into several mason jars. How long can I keep them in the fridge? Thank you!
Julie Gaeta says
Yay, I’m so glad you liked it! 💛 You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Lately I've been meal prepping twice a week so I make two smaller batches—one on Monday and one on Thursday, but do what works best for you!