Chocolate Hazelnut Protein Chia Pudding (Printable)

Creamy chocolate hazelnut pudding packed with protein for satisfying breakfast

# List of ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1/2 cup chia seeds
02 - 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
03 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1/3 cup chocolate or vanilla protein powder
05 - 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Hazelnut Layer & Toppings

08 - 1/2 cup roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
09 - 2 tablespoons dark chocolate shavings or chips
10 - Fresh berries for serving

# Steps:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and smooth.
02 - Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping and ensure even distribution of seeds.
03 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened to a pudding consistency.
04 - Before serving, stir the pudding well. Spoon into serving glasses or bowls.
05 - Top with chopped roasted hazelnuts, dark chocolate shavings, and fresh berries if desired.
06 - Serve immediately or keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of cocoa and hazelnuts tastes like dessert but packs enough protein to keep you full until lunch.
  • It requires zero cooking and comes together in minutes, leaving you with ready to eat breakfasts for days.
02 -
  • The second whisk after five minutes is crucial because once chia seeds clump together, they become nearly impossible to smooth out later.
  • Protein powders vary wildly in sweetness and texture, so taste your mixture before chilling and adjust maple syrup accordingly.
03 -
  • For the smoothest texture, blend everything except the chia seeds in a blender first, then whisk in the seeds by hand.
  • Make a double batch on Sunday and portion it into four jars for grab and go breakfasts all week long.