Chia pudding with hemp protein and cocoa – a protein-packed breakfast

Chia pudding with hemp protein is a breakfast you can prepare in 5 minutes the night before – the fridge takes care of the rest. Cocoa, hemp protein, and chia seeds combine into a nighttime infusion that has a creamy, gel-like consistency in the morning and provides over 20 g of protein per serving. Perfect for those who don’t have time in the morning. Here’s the exact recipe.

KEY INFORMATION
• Hemp protein has a PDCAAS digestibility of about 0.63–0.66 – higher than pea protein (Tang et al., Journal of Food Science, 2010).
• Chia seeds contain about 17 g of protein and 34 g of fiber per 100 g, and their omega-3 (ALA) content is about 17 g/100 g.
• A 30 g serving of hemp protein powder provides 15–18 g of protein, 2–4 g of fat, and 5–7 g of fiber (USDA, 2023).
• Raw cocoa contains about 499 mg of magnesium/100 g – magnesium supports muscle and nervous system functions.

Why does hemp protein fit well with chia pudding?

Hemp protein and chia seeds together create a complete amino acid profile and omega-3 fatty acids. Chia provides ALA, while hemp protein offers edestin and albumins that are well-absorbed. Tang et al. (Journal of Food Science, 2010) demonstrated that the PDCAAS of hemp protein is 0.63–0.66 – higher than pea protein (0.59), but lower than whey (1.0). In the context of plant-based breakfasts, this is a very good result.

Kakao to nie tylko smak – ciemne kakao naturalne dostarcza flawonoidy (epicatechin, catechin) działające jako antyoksydanty i obniżające ciśnienie krwi. W połączeniu z błonnikiem z chia i białkiem konopnym, kakao robi z puddingu funkcjonalne śniadanie, a nie tylko deser. Kakao warto wybierać naturalne (nie alkalizowane „dutch process”), które zachowuje więcej flawonoidów.

Learn more about using hemp protein in the kitchen – how to dose it and what to combine it with – in the article how to use hemp protein.

Nutritional values – what does this serving provide?

One serving of pudding (200 ml almond milk + 30 g hemp protein + 30 g chia seeds + cocoa) provides about 340 kcal, 22 g of protein, 12 g of fat, and 30 g of carbohydrates. The fiber from chia seeds and hemp protein together amounts to about 12 g – half of the daily requirement for women.

Ingredients – what do you need?

Recipe for 2 servings – perfect for two people or for two breakfasts in advance:

• 400 ml plant-based milk (almond or oat – best for texture)
• 60 g hemp protein powder (about 2 servings)
• 60 g chia seeds (about 4 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons of natural cocoa (not alkalized)
• 1–2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• a pinch of sea salt
• for serving: fresh fruits, cocoa nibs, or nuts

How to prepare chia pudding with hemp protein – step by step?

Active time: 5 minutes. Refrigeration time: 6–8 hours. Recipe for 2 servings, stored for up to 5 days.

Step 1. Mix the base. Pour 400 ml of plant-based milk into a jar or bowl. Add 60 g of hemp protein and 2 tablespoons of cocoa. Mix vigorously or use an immersion blender to eliminate lumps. Hemp protein absorbs better in warm milk, but cold works too – just give it more time to mix.

Step 2. Sweeten and season. Add maple syrup or honey, a pinch of salt, and vanilla. Mix well. Vanilla and salt deepen the cocoa flavor – the pudding tastes flat without them. Taste the base before adding chia – adjust the sweetness now, as the consistency changes overnight.

Step 3. Add chia seeds. Pour 60 g of chia into the mixture and mix thoroughly. Wait 5 minutes and mix again – this prevents clumping. Chia seeds tend to sink and clump at the bottom.

Step 4. Place in the fridge. Cover the jar and place it in the fridge for 6–8 hours (preferably overnight). The chia seeds will absorb the milk and swell about 3 times – the volume of the pudding will increase significantly.

Step 5. Check the consistency. Take it out in the morning and check the thickness. Too thick? Add a few tablespoons of milk and mix. Too runny? Leave it for another hour. The correct pudding should have the consistency of thick yogurt.

In our tests, we found that cocoa nibs as a topping (instead of cocoa powder) radically change the textural experience – crunchy pieces against the creamy pudding create a much more interesting sensory combination. Hemp protein has a slightly sandy texture, which cocoa nibs complement rather than hide.

Step 6. Serve. Spoon the pudding into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Take the jar to work – it will last a few hours without refrigeration.

How to modify this recipe – variations and substitutes?

Fruit version. Instead of cocoa, use a teaspoon of spirulina or matcha powder – a green pudding with hemp protein and mango is an interesting alternative. Matcha + hemp protein + coconut milk = creamy breakfast with caffeine.

Milk substitution. Mleko kokosowe daje najgęstszą konsystencję (więcej tłuszczu), migdałowe – lekką, owsiane – kremową pośrednią. Mleko owsiane najlepiej „ukrywa” ziemisty posmak białka konopnego dzięki własnemu słodkawemu smakowi.

Protein substitution. Hemp protein can be replaced with pea protein in the same amount. Pea protein has a more neutral taste but a lower PDCAAS (0.59 vs 0.63–0.66 for hemp). For vegans, both options are better than having no protein in the pudding.

You can find more breakfast recipes with hemp products in the complete guide to hemp in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does chia pudding with hemp protein provide?

One serving (200 ml of milk + 30 g of hemp protein + 30 g of chia) provides about 20–22 g of protein. Hemp protein contains about 50–60% protein in powder (according to USDA FoodData Central), and chia seeds add another 5 g per serving.

Can chia pudding be prepared without overnight soaking?

Yes, but it requires at least 4–6 hours. The full gel-like consistency is achieved when chia seeds absorb about 9 times their weight in water. You can shorten the soaking time to 30 minutes with warm milk, but the consistency will be less creamy.

Which hemp protein works best in pudding?

Hemp protein with a content of 50–60% protein and a mild flavor works best. Cocoa masks the grassy aftertaste, but an overly intense aroma can overpower it. A more processed protein (powder) provides a smoother consistency than ground seeds.

How long can chia pudding be stored?

In a sealed jar in the refrigerator, chia pudding will last up to 5 days. You can prepare 5 servings on Sunday for the whole week. Do not freeze – chia loses its creamy texture after thawing.

This article is for informational and educational purposes and does not replace consultation with a doctor. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have chronic conditions, consult the use of supplements or herbs with a specialist.

Author: Michał Waluk · Published: 2026-05-04 · Updated: 2026-05-04