If you’re on the hunt for a nutritious yet indulgent treat that wakes up your senses, look no further than this delightful Coffee Chia Protein Pudding Recipe. Creamy, energizing, and packed with protein and fiber, this pudding is the perfect way to fuel your morning or enjoy a wholesome snack. Every spoonful offers a smooth coffee kick balanced by the subtle sweetness of maple syrup and vanilla, while the chia seeds provide a lovely texture and a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s a simple but satisfying concoction that feels like a little moment of luxury in your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with a handful of straightforward yet impactful ingredients that each add something special. From the rich, aromatic espresso to the creamy Greek yogurt and protein powder, every component plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and nourishment.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds: These tiny seeds soak up liquid to create a luscious, gel-like consistency while packing in fiber and omega-3s.
- 2/3 cup milk: Use your favorite milk to adjust creaminess and richness; dairy or plant-based options work beautifully.
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder: Adds a delightful vanilla note and a protein boost to keep you full and energized.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Contributes a creamy texture and tangy balance, along with probiotics for gut health.
- 2 tsp instant coffee or espresso: The star flavor, delivering that unmistakable coffee aroma and taste.
- 4 oz hot water: Used to dissolve the coffee, intensifying its flavor and blending seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness while complementing the coffee and vanilla flavors.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and deepens the pudding’s flavor profile.
How to Make Coffee Chia Protein Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Brew the Coffee Base
Start by mixing your instant coffee or espresso with 4 ounces of hot water in a small cup or bowl. Stir until completely dissolved, creating a rich coffee base that will infuse every bite with a bold coffee flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Containers
Divide the brewed coffee evenly into two small containers or mason jars. To each, add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, 1/3 cup of milk, half a scoop of vanilla protein powder, 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you prefer, you can mix everything together in a large bowl first and then portion into jars—the choice is yours!
Step 3: Chill and Let Set
Seal the containers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is even better. This resting time allows the chia seeds to swell and thicken the pudding into a creamy, spoonable delight packed with flavor.
How to Serve Coffee Chia Protein Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of dark cocoa powder or a few chocolate-covered espresso beans on top takes this pudding to the next level. Fresh berries or sliced almonds add a lovely contrast in texture and a pop of color that makes each serving feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair your coffee chia protein pudding with a handful of crunchy granola or a slice of toasted almond bread for a balanced meal or snack. A fresh fruit salad alongside enhances the freshness and rounds out your nutrient intake nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your pudding layered in a clear glass jar, alternating with whipped coconut cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a sophisticated, café-style treat. You can also freeze it in popsicle molds for a cool twist on this classic recipe or layer it with nuts and seeds in parfait glasses for a visually stunning breakfast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate any leftover Coffee Chia Protein Pudding Recipe in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, and the texture might become thicker, so feel free to stir in a splash of milk before serving if it gets too dense.
Freezing
While freezing chia pudding isn’t common, you can freeze it for up to a month if needed. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before enjoying. Note that the texture may change slightly, becoming a bit grainier, but it will still be delicious and energizing.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a warm version, gently heat it on the stove or microwave with care, stirring constantly to avoid curdling or changing the texture too much.
FAQs
Can I use different types of milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether you prefer dairy, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk, you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Each milk offers a slightly different creaminess and flavor, so experiment to find what you love most.
Is this pudding suitable for vegan diets?
To make this pudding vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan protein powder. Also, make sure your maple syrup and instant coffee are free from any animal-derived additives.
How much protein does this pudding provide?
Thanks to the protein powder and Greek yogurt, this pudding packs roughly 20 grams of protein per serving, making it a fantastic breakfast or post-workout snack that helps build and repair muscles.
Can I prepare this pudding without the coffee?
Yes! If you want to skip the caffeine, replace the coffee with an equal amount of milk or brewed herbal tea. The pudding will still be delicious and creamy but with a different flavor profile.
What if I want a sweeter pudding?
Feel free to add extra maple syrup or a splash of honey to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can also mix in a little cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and sweetness without extra sugar.
Final Thoughts
If you love the idea of a creamy, energizing, and nourishing start to your day, you’ll absolutely adore this Coffee Chia Protein Pudding Recipe. It’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, turning simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying treat that feels like a cup of coffee and a wholesome meal rolled into one. Try it tomorrow morning or save it for a pick-me-up snack—it’s bound to become one of your favorite recipes!
PrintCoffee Chia Protein Pudding Recipe
This Coffee Chia Protein Pudding is a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option packed with protein and fiber. Combining the rich flavors of coffee and vanilla with creamy Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and a hint of maple syrup, this pudding sets overnight to create a satisfying, energizing start to your day or a wholesome pick-me-up.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Chia Mixture
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Coffee
- 2 tsp instant coffee or espresso
- 4 oz hot water
Instructions
- Prepare the coffee: In a small cup or bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee or espresso powder into 4 ounces of hot water. Stir well until fully dissolved to create a strong coffee base.
- Mix pudding ingredients: Divide the coffee, chia seeds, milk, protein powder, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract evenly into two small containers or mason jars. Alternatively, combine all ingredients in a large bowl and then transfer the mixture into two separate containers.
- Refrigerate to set: Cover the containers and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the chia seeds to expand and the pudding to thicken into a creamy, spoonable texture.
Notes
- You can customize sweetness by adjusting the amount of maple syrup according to your taste preferences.
- The pudding can be assembled in advance and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Use any type of milk you prefer such as almond, soy, or cow’s milk to suit dietary needs.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the instant coffee amount slightly.
- Mixing all ingredients in a large bowl ensures even distribution before portioning.
