Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a fresh, energizing, and downright delicious way to start your day or power through an afternoon slump, you’ve got to try this Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe. It blends the earthy goodness of matcha with creamy Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and a boost of protein for a snack or breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Trust me, once you dig in, it becomes one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on rotation.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced Nutrition: The combo of protein powder, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds packs enough protein and fiber to keep you full and energized.
- Subtle Matcha Flavor: The matcha powder adds a delicate, earthy green tea taste without being overpowering, making it inviting even for matcha newbies.
- Convenience: Minimal prep and easy fridge chilling mean you can whip it up the night before and wake up to ready-to-eat, creamy pudding.
- Versatility: You can customize with your favorite plant-based milk or mix-ins to make it your own.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each component of this Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe plays a special role — from creaminess to texture to nutrition. Plus, shopping for these is super straightforward since most are pantry staples or easy to find in the grocery store.
- Nonfat Greek yogurt: It gives you a rich creaminess and a powerhouse of protein without extra fat, which balances the pudding nicely.
- Plant-based milk: I usually use almond or oat milk; they keep it dairy-light and add a hint of flavor without overwhelming the taste.
- Chia seeds: These tiny seeds are fiber and omega-rich, and they swell deliciously to create that signature pudding texture.
- Whey protein powder: Vanilla works wonders here, adding sweetness and extra protein to help keep you full, but feel free to experiment with coconut or unflavored.
- Matcha powder: The star ingredient that brings a subtle grassy note and a gentle caffeine kick to this pudding.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash rounds out the flavors and complements the matcha beautifully.
- Optional toppings: Fresh fruits, nut butters, and crunchy bits add texture and personalization, making every spoonful exciting.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love how forgiving and adaptable this Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe is—personalizing it makes it feel like your go-to, not just any old pudding. When I make it, I sometimes swap protein powders or play with toppings depending on the season or mood, and it never disappoints.
- More Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter, I add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before chilling—just enough to balance matcha’s natural bitterness.
- Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for coconut or almond yogurt to make a vegan-friendly version that still offers creaminess.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter before setting to add richness and a subtle nutty flavor that pairs amazingly with matcha.
- Matcha Intensity: If you want a stronger green tea punch, feel free to bump the matcha powder to 1½ teaspoons—just be mindful of its earthy bitterness.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients
Start by pulling together your nonfat Greek yogurt, plant-based milk, chia seeds, protein powder, matcha, and vanilla extract. I like measuring everything in a medium bowl or a mason jar to make stirring and later storage super easy.
Step 2: Whisk It Up Until Smooth
Mix all your ingredients thoroughly with a whisk or fork. Take extra time here to break up any clumps—especially from the matcha and protein powder—because nothing ruins pudding texture like gritty bits! When you see a silky, even mixture with no powder lumps, you’re good.
Step 3: Let It Chill and Thicken
Cover your bowl or shake the jar lid on tight, then pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best if you have the time. The chia seeds will soak up the liquid and create that luscious pudding texture that makes this recipe so addictive.
Step 4: Give It a Final Stir and Add Toppings
Before digging in, stir the pudding again to redistribute any liquid that might have settled. Then top it off with fresh berries, a dollop of almond butter, or sprinkle your favorite crunchy bits—coconut flakes or cacao nibs are my go-to’s for that perfect contrast.
Pro Tips for Making Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
- Whisk Matcha First: Dissolve matcha powder in a little bit of the plant milk first to avoid clumps before mixing everything else in.
- Use a Jar for Easier Stirring: I love prepping in a wide-mouth jar so I can give it a good shake before refrigerating and before serving—makes life easier!
- Customize Protein Powder: Try different protein powders to find your favorite flavor profiles; some come out creamier or sweeter than others.
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Leaving it overnight lets the chia seeds swell fully, creating the classic pudding texture that’s irresistible.
How to Serve Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
When I serve this pudding, I love topping it with fresh raspberries or sliced kiwi for color and tartness. A spoonful of almond butter adds richness, while crunchy coconut flakes or cacao nibs bring that satisfying bite. These garnishes really elevate the experience, turning a simple pudding into a treat.
Side Dishes
For mornings when I want to add something hearty alongside the pudding, I pair it with a slice of whole-grain toast or a handful of nuts. It balances the lightness of the pudding while keeping me full. You can also enjoy it solo as a perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
I’ve thrown this pudding in clear parfait glasses layered with fresh fruit and granola for brunch get-togethers—it looks stunning and feels fancy. For a little fun, I sometimes swirl in a bit of matcha powder on top or dust with edible flowers. These little touches make it special when you want to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pudding keeps really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually stash mine in small jars for grab-and-go breakfasts. Just give it a quick stir before eating, and it’s perfect.
Freezing
I haven’t had great luck freezing this pudding because chia changes texture upon freezing and then thawing. If you want to prep ahead, I recommend making single servings and refrigerating instead of freezing.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so I don’t reheat it. If you prefer it warmer, a short 10-15 second zap in the microwave works, but it might slightly alter the texture. Personally, I like it chilled for that refreshing feel!
FAQs
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Can I make this Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut or almond yogurt and choose a vegan protein powder. Using plant-based milk keeps it dairy-free too. The pudding will still set beautifully thanks to the chia seeds.
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How long does the matcha protein chia pudding last in the fridge?
Stored well in an airtight container, this pudding is best eaten within 3 days. After that, the texture and flavor might start to change, but it’s usually still safe to eat for up to 5 days if refrigerated properly.
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Can I prepare this pudding the night before?
Yes! In fact, I recommend prepping it the night before. The chia seeds need time to absorb the liquids and thicken, so an overnight chill creates the perfect pudding consistency that’s creamy and satisfying.
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What’s the best way to avoid clumps in the pudding?
To avoid clumps, whisk your matcha powder with a small amount of plant milk first until smooth before adding the other ingredients. Also, use a fine whisk or fork and stir thoroughly when you combine everything.
Final Thoughts
This Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe is one of those finds that blends health, taste, and convenience seamlessly. It’s my go-to when I want something nourishing but easy, and I love how flexible it is for different tastes and dietary needs. I really hope you give it a try—you might find it becoming your favorite quick breakfast or snack just like I did. Trust me, once you’ve had it topped with your favorite fruit and nut butter combo, you’ll be hooked. Happy pudding making!
Print
Matcha Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A nutritious and delicious Matcha Chia Pudding packed with 34 grams of protein and only 317 calories per serving. This creamy pudding combines the antioxidant benefits of matcha with the protein power of Greek yogurt and whey protein powder, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ⅔ cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup plant-based milk
- 2½ tbsp chia seeds
- ½ scoop whey protein powder (vanilla, coconut, or unflavored)
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- fresh fruit (raspberries, strawberries, or kiwi)
- nut butter (almond butter or pistachio butter)
- crunchy toppings (coconut flakes, granola, or cacao nibs)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl or jar, add ⅔ cup Greek yogurt, ⅓ cup plant-based milk, 2½ tablespoons chia seeds, ½ scoop whey protein powder, 1 teaspoon matcha powder, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and sweetener of choice.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir or whisk all the ingredients vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to thicken and the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the pudding once more to break up any clumps. Add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, nut butter, or crunchy toppings right before eating to maintain texture.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt and whey protein with plant-based alternatives like coconut yogurt and pea protein powder.
- Adjust sweetness by adding natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia according to taste.
- Overnight chilling improves texture, but a minimum of 2 hours works well for thinner pudding.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier texture if desired, keeping in mind higher calories.
- Matcha powder quality affects flavor; use ceremonial grade for best taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 317 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 11 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
