High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make treat that feels like a little bowl of joy, then you’ve got to try this High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe. It’s bursting with fresh strawberries, naturally sweetened with dates, and packs a wonderful protein punch thanks to creamy Greek-style yogurt and chia seeds. Whether you want a quick breakfast pick-me-up, a healthy snack, or a satisfying dessert, this pudding delivers on flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness all in one vibrant, refreshing dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element adds its own vibrant touch—fresh strawberries for that fruity brightness, dates for natural sweetness, and chia seeds for thickening and protein power. Together, they create a smooth, creamy pudding that’s as beautiful as it is nourishing.

• 2 cups strawberries (chopped into bite-size pieces): Fresh or thawed frozen strawberries add juicy color and natural sweetness.
• 2 Medjool dates (pitted and chopped): These plump dates provide natural caramel-like sweetness without any refined sugar.
• Splash of water: Just enough to help cook down the fruit and soften the dates.
• 1 cup unsweetened nondairy milk: Adds creaminess with a light touch; choose soy milk for extra protein.
• 1 cup unsweetened Greek-style yogurt (or regular yogurt): Boosts the protein content and creates a luscious, creamy texture.
• 4 tablespoons chia seeds (grind one tablespoon optional): Vital for thickening and supplying fiber plus omega-3s; grinding one tablespoon helps make the texture extra smooth.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of warmth and depth that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon: Offers a subtle hint of spice and complexity to elevate the flavor profile.

How to Make High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Fruit

Start by combining the chopped strawberries, pitted and chopped Medjool dates, and a splash of water in a medium saucepan. Cook this over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Stir often to help the strawberries break down and the dates dissolve into a sweet, thick jam-like mixture that will bring natural fruitiness and body to your pudding.

Step 2: Mash the Fruit

Once cooked, use the back of a spoon or spatula to mash the mixture right in the pan. Aim for mostly smooth with a few small chunks left for some wonderful texture and bursts of flavor. Then set it aside to cool—this is where your strawberry base is born!

Step 3: Mix the Protein Base

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the unsweetened nondairy milk and Greek-style yogurt until the mixture is silky and smooth. This is the protein-packed creaminess that makes this pudding so satisfying. Stir in the vanilla extract and Ceylon cinnamon next to layer in warmth and a touch of spice.

Step 4: Add Ground Chia Seeds

For an ultra-smooth texture, especially if you prefer less of the seeds’ crunch, whisk in one tablespoon of ground chia seeds into the yogurt mixture. This step helps thicken the base beautifully and gives this dish a subtle nourishing boost without overpowering the flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Strawberry Mixture with Yogurt Base

Pour the cooled strawberry-date mixture into your protein base and stir gently until the colors meld together evenly. This melding of flavors is what makes the High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe so irresistible and perfectly balanced.

Step 6: Add Whole Chia Seeds

Finally, stir in the remaining whole chia seeds. These little nutrient powerhouses will swell and thicken your pudding as it chills, suspended evenly throughout the creamy strawberry mixture, making each bite interesting and full of texture.

Step 7: Refrigerate to Set

Transfer your pudding to serving containers and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chia seeds to swell and the pudding to reach the ideal spoonable consistency. If you can plan ahead, letting it chill overnight intensifies the flavors and thickens the texture beautifully.

Step 8: Optional – Add Fresh Strawberries for Serving

For a fresh finish and an extra pop of texture and color, top with chopped fresh strawberries just before serving. It makes your pudding look as delightful as it tastes.

How to Serve High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your pudding by adding sliced almonds, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or a drizzle of honey for that extra layer of indulgence. Fresh mint leaves also brighten up the dish and complement the strawberry flavor perfectly.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs wonderfully with crunchy granola or a warm slice of whole-grain toast to make your breakfast a balanced and filling meal. It also works beautifully alongside a light green smoothie if you want an energizing boost.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the pudding in mason jars or clear glasses with alternating layers of fresh strawberries and granola for a beautiful parfait effect. You could also dollop it atop vegan pancakes or waffles for a fabulous fruity twist that boosts protein and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover pudding can be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chia seeds will continue to thicken the mixture, so if it’s become too thick, simply stir in a splash of nondairy milk to loosen it before eating.

Freezing

While freezing chia pudding isn’t typically recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to a month if absolutely needed. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir. The texture may be a bit different but still tasty and nutritious.

Reheating

This pudding is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer it warm, gently heat in a double boiler or microwave on low power, stirring carefully to avoid cooking the chia seeds further and changing the texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries give the most vibrant flavor, but thawed frozen strawberries work beautifully too and are a great option when fresh aren’t in season.

Is this pudding suitable for vegans?

Yes! Just be sure to use a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt and a plant-based milk like soy or almond milk. The recipe is naturally adaptable to vegan diets.

Can I prepare this pudding without dates?

While dates add wonderful natural sweetness, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if needed. Adjust the sweetness to taste.

Why grind one tablespoon of chia seeds?

Grinding one tablespoon helps break down the seeds, creating a smoother pudding texture without losing the benefits of the whole chia seeds added later for texture.

How long does it take for chia pudding to thicken?

Chia pudding usually thickens within 30 minutes in the fridge, but for the best flavor and texture, letting it set overnight is ideal.

Final Thoughts

There is just something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of this High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe—it hits the perfect note between sweet and wholesome, creamy and textured, light and filling. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for busy mornings, quick snacks, or anytime you need a nourishing little celebration in a bowl. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites!

High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe

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This High-Protein Strawberry Chia Pudding is a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option that combines the natural sweetness of strawberries and dates with the creamy texture of Greek-style yogurt and nondairy milk. Packed with protein from yogurt and chia seeds, and flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, this pudding requires minimal cooking and sets in the fridge to a perfect consistency. It’s a wholesome, gluten-free treat that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes plus chilling time
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Fruit Mixture

• 2 cups strawberries, chopped into bite-size pieces
• 2 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
• Splash of water

Protein Base

• 1 cup unsweetened nondairy milk (such as soy milk)
• 1 cup unsweetened Greek-style yogurt (or regular yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon

Chia Seeds

• 4 tablespoons chia seeds (grind one tablespoon, optional)

Optional Toppings

• Chopped fresh strawberries for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the fruit: Add the chopped strawberries, Medjool dates, and a splash of water to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the strawberries break down and the dates dissolve into a thick, jam-like consistency.
2. Mash the fruit: Using the back of a spoon, fork, or spatula, mash the cooked strawberries and dates directly in the saucepan until mostly smooth, leaving a few small pieces for texture. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Mix the protein base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the unsweetened nondairy milk and Greek-style yogurt until completely smooth. Add the vanilla extract and Ceylon cinnamon, whisking to combine thoroughly.
4. Add ground chia: Whisk in the ground chia seeds into the yogurt mixture until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine: Stir the warm strawberry-date mixture into the protein base until evenly distributed throughout.
6. Add whole chia: Finally, stir in the whole chia seeds, mixing well to ensure they are evenly suspended in the pudding.
7. Chill: For a thicker pudding texture, refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes or preferably overnight to allow the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and set the pudding.
8. Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional chopped fresh strawberries before serving for added freshness and flavor.

Notes

• Grinding one tablespoon of chia seeds is optional but helps create a creamier texture.
• Using unsweetened yogurt and nondairy milk keeps added sugars low; adjust sweetness by choosing riper dates or adding a natural sweetener if desired.
• The pudding thickens as it chills; refrigerate overnight for best consistency.
• This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by ensuring the yogurt used is plant-based.
• For a different flavor twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping vanilla extract for almond extract.