This recipe has been my most popular Instagram post ever!  And for good reason, I think. These chocolate protein puddings are super easy to make and have a whopping 20g of protein and 10g of fibre per small portion.

The puddings are a great option for a quick breakfast or dessert. I like to make the night before and put in the fridge so the texture is firmer. However, you can also blend and eat straight away, if you prefer. Either way they are really delicious.

How can you make a protein pudding without protein powder?

I have nothing against protein powder and use it quite often. However, I know some of you have asked for high protein recipes without protein powder. So here is a great option for breakfast, snacks and dessert.

These chocolate protein puddings contain no protein powder.  The protein comes from shelled hemp seeds, chia seeds and organic soya milk.  

The hemp and chia are both nutritional powerhouses and are great sources of plant based protein. Hemp seeds, in particular, are very high in protein. They also make sure you get a good amount of omega 3 fatty acids as both hemp and chia seeds are high in omega 3s.

I also use organic, unsweetened soya milk to make them. Soya milk may get a bad press but it is much higher in protein than other plant milks such as oat and almond. Just make sure you buy an organic one as soy plants can be heavily sprayed.

Do these chocolate protein puddings contain refined sugar?

No, they’re refined sugar free and just sweetened with the banana. If you have a sweeter tooth, you can of course, add a little maple syrup or another sweetener.

How easy is it to make protein puddings at home?

They are very easy to make. You simply put all of the ingredients into a blender and blend for a minute. transfer to a serving dish or jar and leave to set. You can eat straightaway, however, I like to let them sit for an hour in the fridge to thicken up.

They are a great option to make ahead and perfect for meal prep. They will last in the fridge for about 3 days. 

What are the ingredients for chocolate protein puddings?

• Shelled hemp seeds
• Chia seeds
• Banana
• Almond butter
• Cacao powder
• Soya milk

Shelled Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are a protein powerhouse, with around 6 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons. They are also rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which are important for brain function, skin health, and inflammation regulation. Hemp seeds are also a great source of magnesium and iron. Hemp is a complete protein, providing all 9 essential amino acids.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds may be small, but they pack a huge nutritional punch. With around 4 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons, they are a great source of plant-based protein. A bit less than hemp seeds but still amazing. They are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and antioxidants. Unlike hemp, chia seeds will swell up and make the pudding really thick and creamy. This can help you feel fuller for longer due to this high fibre content. 

Banana

Bananas are the perfect base for any pudding, offering a natural sweetness and creamy texture. They are rich in potassium, and they provide a good dose of vitamin C and B6. The fibre content in bananas helps with your digestive health, making them a great ingredient to keep you satisfied between meals.

Almond Butter

Almond butter helps give these puddings great flavour and texture. Almonds are an excellent source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats. They are also rich in vitamin E as well as good sources of fibre and protein.

Cacao Powder

This is the unprocessed form of cocoa, which means it retains more of its natural nutrients and antioxidants. Cacao is also rich in magnesium, iron, and calcium, making it a really nutritious and delicious addition to your diet. 

Organic Soya Milk

Soya milk is an excellent source of plant-based protein. The organic one I use has about 9 grams of protein per cup. It’s also packed with essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and magnesium. I know some people avoid soya products as the soy crops can be heavily sprayed with pesticides. As long as you look for an organic non-GMO brand, this will make sure you avoid that.

Recipe tips

• Almond butter: If you don’t want to add the almond butter you can leave this out. It will change the taste slightly but not the texture.  Or swap it for another nut butter.
• Toppings: The toppings are optional but adding the extra yoghurt ups the protein count even more and the nibs add a bit of extra crunch.
• Shelf life: They will last for 3 days in the fridge, once jarred up with the toppings, so are great for meal prep.
• Banana: if you don’t like banana you can swap for a couple of dates or some fruit puree.
• Milk choice: You can use any milk you like for these.  I use organic soya milk as I like the extra protein it gives.

If you enjoyed this chocolate protein pudding recipe, why not try:

Matcha Chia Puddings

Chocolate & Pear Baked Oats

High Protein Green Smoothie

Blended Blueberry Pudding

High Protein Snickers Smoothie