Almond Butter Chocolate Chia Pudding Recipe

Transitioning to a whole-foods based diet, especially high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats can help you lose weight and decrease your risk of breast cancer. 

But, I know when you’re BUSY, just the thought of meal prepping can be overwhelming.

But, it IS possible to make quick, easy, healthy meals and snacks! So, I wanted to share one of my favorite breakfast recipes:

Almond Butter Chocolate Chia Pudding

(Makes 2 servings)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk (you can use a milk alternative as well)
• 2 scoops of chocolate-flavored protein powder (you can use any protein powder, but my favorite is EquiLife's Daily Nutritional Support, which has 7.5 grams of protein per scoop plus tons of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2 TBSP almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 2 TBSP unsweetened cocoa powder
• Optional: 1/3 cup fresh raspberries or strawberries

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients (except almond butter and optional fruit) into a mixing bowl. Combine using a whisk until mixed thoroughly. 
2.  Heat up almond butter either on the stove or in a glass bowl in the microwave. (If using the microwave, 45 seconds to 1 min should be enough time).
3.  Pour melted almond butter into mixture and whisk until combined. 
4.  Separate mixture into two different food storage containers. 
5.  Place containers in the refrigerator and refrigerate overnight.
6.  Optional: Add 1/3 cup fresh strawberries or raspberries before eating

Nutrition Info (per serving):

Calories: 547

Protein: 28 g

Fiber: 21.8 g

Net carbs: 14 g

Fat: 32.5 g

If adding 1/3 cup of strawberries:

Additional:

16 calories

2.8 g net carbs

1 g of fiber

If adding 1/3 cup of raspberries:

Additional:

21 calories

2.2 g net carbs

2.7 g of fiber

Tip: Double the recipe so that you get four servings to have for breakfast for the week!

Note: This portion size lends itself to a great breakfast! But, if you’re looking for a snack option, just separate the mixture into three storage containers (instead of two) for a portion perfect for a snack!

 If you've never tried chia pudding before, you should give it a try--it's even dessert-like!