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High Protein Tiramisu Chia Pudding (30g Protein!)

Decadent, layered dessert-inspired breakfast or post-workout meal that tastes like Tiramisu but packs 30g of protein! Features an espresso-chia base, a high-protein Greek yogurt cream layer, and a rich cocoa dust.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 1 large jar or bowl
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Healthy-Indulgence
Calories: 395
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Rich Coffee Chia Base
  • 0.25 cup chia seeds unprocessed
  • 1 cup ultra-filtered milk like Fairlife, 2% or whole, unflavored, must be 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
The High-Protein Cream Layer
  • 0.5 cup Greek yogurt plain, 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
Essential Topping and Garnish
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
  • a few whole coffee beans optional, for garnish
  • a few chocolate shavings optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl (for chia base)
  • Small mixing bowl (for cream layer)
  • Whisk
  • Serrated knife (for cleaning, optional)
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa)
  • Clear serving jar or glass

Method
 

  1. Ensure espresso or strong coffee is completely cooled before beginning.
  2. Prepare the Chia Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ultra-filtered milk, unflavored or vanilla protein powder, cooled espresso (or coffee), vanilla extract, maple syrup, and pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until the protein powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Whisk in the chia seeds. Ensure they are evenly distributed. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Give the chia mixture another whisk (critical step to prevent clumping). Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight (8 hours) until fully set and firm.
  5. Prepare the Cream Layer: Whisk Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, maple syrup, and optional milk together until smooth and creamy. Cover and chill.
  6. Assembly: In a clear glass or jar, carefully spoon in the fully set chia pudding base. Use the spoon to smooth the top into an even layer.
  7. The Cream Top: Carefully spoon the high-protein cream layer directly over the chia base. Spread into a clean, smooth, even layer.
  8. Dusting: Using a fine-mesh sieve, gently and evenly dust the entire top with unsweetened cocoa powder, avoiding getting it on the glass sides if possible.
  9. Chill assembled pudding for 30 minutes to let the cocoa settle and layers stay distinct. Garnish with a few coffee beans if desired and serve cold.

Notes

This recipe requires cold ingredients and time to set. For true distinct layering like the picture, the chia must be very firm. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.