Who else feels like all your hard work to stay healthy goes out the window as soon as you’ve got the snack munchies?! This is probably the biggest road block for most of us and definitely something that I struggle with. When I crave food, I need something readily available, so it is necessary for me to have prepped snacks I can grab. More importantly, these snacks must be filling and nutritious. That’s why I love this protein chia seed pudding recipe.
What’s so great about chia seeds? Whelp, they’re loaded in nutrients (check out the graphic below). Almost all the carbs are from fiber, which means it feels you up without the harmful carbs like those of starches and sugars. In addition to protein and fiber, chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Lastly, it’s so darn easy to add these little dudes to your diet. Just sprinkle them on whatever, or make chia pudding!
There are a number of different flavors you can create with chia seed pudding. Honestly, all you really need to do is mix milk (or milk alternative) with chia seeds and let it sit overnight. The ratio is simple, for every 1/4 cup (or 4 tbs) of chia seeds, add one cup of milk. Easy!
Now, of course, that is rather boring! You can really get creative with a variety of fruits, spices, sweeteners, and nuts. Keep it simple by adding some chopped mango and shaved coconut on top. Or try a delicious blend of berries with some maple syrup and chopped nuts? You can really make this however you’d like.
My recipe is specifically designed to be loaded in protein and taste great! If you are into working out and/or a veg head like me, it’s also great to have snacks that add in more protein throughout the day, without having to drink more shake. This is why I love adding a scoop of protein powder and spoonful of peanut butter to my chia pudding. The shake powder gives it all the sweetener it needs and the peanut butter adds more texture and flavor.
Of course, you can skip the protein powder and replace it with cocoa powder and sweetener if you wish. Like usual, my recipe is one that can be molded to whatever works for you!
Protein Packed Chia Seed Pudding
This recipe will make one chia seed pudding, but I usually make a 3-4 at once in mason jars or tupperware. One trick if you want to have an easier time mixing is to place everything in a big bowl, mix it up, and then transfer it to the smaller dishes. Sometimes, I spill and make a mess with the small jars.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
- Large spoonful of natural peanut butter (I like it chunky)
- 1 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1/2 chopped banana
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, dark chocolate, coconut flakes, whatever your little heart desires.
Directions
-
- Place the chia seeds, protein powder, and peanut butter into the containers or one large bowl. Add the milk and mix thoroughly with a fork or whisk well, making sure the peanut better is no longer chunky.
- If not already in the smaller dishes, pour the mixture into each individual container, leaving space for expansion and toppings.
- Top with bananas and any other delicious toppings of your choice.
- Cover and store in the fridge for at least 8 hours before consuming, allowing the chia seeds to fully expand.
Ever since I started making these, I have been obsessed. I used to make really similar snacks with oats, but I love that this fills me up even more, without the starchy carbs. This has completely replaced overnight oats, in my world!
What changes would you make to this? What are your favorite toppings? Comment below!
I’m also curious to know your healthy “go-to” snack. Let me know 🙂
Much love,
