Chocolate Banana Almond Protein Bowl (Printable)
A creamy chocolate and banana creation with protein-packed chia seeds and crunchy almond toppings for a nourishing breakfast.
# List of ingredients:
→ Chia Pudding Base
01 - 3 tablespoons chia seeds
02 - 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
03 - 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder (approximately 1 oz)
05 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
06 - Pinch of salt
→ Toppings
07 - 1 medium banana, sliced
08 - 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
09 - 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
10 - 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt (optional)
11 - Fresh berries (optional)
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, and salt until fully combined and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
02 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the mixture to thicken to a pudding-like consistency.
03 - Stir the chilled chia pudding thoroughly and divide evenly between two serving bowls.
04 - Arrange banana slices, sliced almonds, chocolate chips or cacao nibs, and yogurt if using on top of each portion. Add fresh berries for additional flavor and nutrients.
05 - Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy. The pudding will keep for up to 3 days when stored properly.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It tastes like dessert for breakfast but actually fuels you properly for hours
- You spend 10 minutes the night before and wake up to something that feels fancy and intentional
02 -
- If your mixture still looks thin after chilling, give it another hour, and resist the urge to add more chia seeds
- The pudding keeps for 4-5 days in the fridge, so double the batch and thank your past self all week
03 -
- Mason jars work perfectly for individual portions, especially if you're taking this to work or the gym
- Run your spoon under hot water before serving if you want that extra smooth, restaurant-style presentation