High Protein Tiramisu Chia Pudding Recipe
This High Protein Tiramisu Chia Pudding is a nutritious and delicious dessert or breakfast option that combines the rich flavors of tiramisu with the health benefits of chia seeds and protein powder. Packed with 30 grams of protein per serving, it features a creamy chia seed base infused with espresso and a smooth Greek yogurt topping, dusted with cocoa powder for an authentic tiramisu finish.
- Author: Cleo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Chia Pudding Base
- 0.25 cup chia seeds (unprocessed)
- 1 cup ultra-filtered milk (such as Fairlife, 2% or whole, unflavored, cold)
- 0.5 scoop unflavored or vanilla protein powder (approx. 15g, high quality whey isolate or casein recommended)
- 2 tbsp strong brewed espresso (completely cooled) or 3 tbsp strong coffee
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure)
- 1 tsp maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 pinch salt
Cream Layer
- 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened, 2% or whole)
- 0.25 scoop vanilla protein powder (approx. 7g)
- 1 tsp maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, to loosen to spreadable consistency)
Garnish
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- A few whole coffee beans (optional, for garnish)
- A few chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
- Cool Espresso: Ensure the espresso or strong coffee is completely cooled before beginning preparation to avoid affecting the chia seeds’ gelatinization and protein powder texture.
- Prepare the Chia Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold ultra-filtered milk, unflavored or vanilla protein powder, cooled espresso, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until the protein powder fully dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Chia Seeds: Whisk in the chia seeds thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow initial gel formation.
- Final Whisk and Refrigeration: Whisk the chia mixture again to break up any clumps, which is critical for uniform texture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight (up to 8 hours) until the pudding is fully set and firm.
- Prepare the Cream Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, maple syrup, and optional milk until smooth and creamy in consistency. Cover and keep refrigerated until assembly.
- Assembly: Spoon the fully set chia pudding base into a clear glass or jar, smoothing the top into an even layer with a spoon.
- Layer the Cream: Carefully spoon the high-protein cream mixture over the chia base and spread into a clean, smooth, even layer to create a distinct two-layer effect.
- Dust with Cocoa: Using a fine-mesh sieve, gently and evenly dust the entire surface with unsweetened cocoa powder, avoiding the glass sides where possible to maintain visual appeal.
- Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for an additional 30 minutes to allow the cocoa to settle and layers to stay distinct. Garnish with whole coffee beans and/or chocolate shavings if desired, then serve cold.
Notes
- Use ultra-filtered milk for a creamier texture and higher protein content compared to regular milk.
- Chilling time is important for chia seeds to fully absorb liquid and create the pudding’s characteristic gel-like consistency.
- Protein powder choice affects flavor and texture; whey isolate or casein are recommended for best results.
- Maple syrup is optional; you can adjust sweetness or leave it out for a more savory taste.
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt and protein powder with plant-based alternatives, and use a non-dairy milk.
- The espresso can be replaced with strong brewed coffee if preferred.
- Stir the chia pudding mixture well both before and after resting to prevent clumping and ensure smoothness.
- Serving chilled enhances flavor and texture, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
Keywords: high protein tiramisu chia pudding, chia seed dessert, protein-rich dessert, healthy tiramisu alternative, no bake tiramisu