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High Protein Cheesecake Chia Pudding - Creamy, Satisfying, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chia seeds: 4 tablespoons (about 40 g). Black or white both work.
  • Unsweetened milk of choice: 1 cup (240 ml). Almond, oat, or dairy milk.
  • Plain Greek yogurt (2% or 0%): 1 cup (225 g) for creaminess and protein.
  • Cream cheese: 2–3 ounces (60–85 g), softened. For that classic cheesecake tang.
  • Vanilla whey or plant protein powder: 1 scoop (25–30 g). Adjust for sweetness and texture.
  • Sweetener: 1–3 tablespoons. Options: maple syrup, honey, agave, or a sugar-free sweetener.
  • Lemon juice: 1–2 teaspoons for a light cheesecake zing.
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
  • Pinch of salt: To balance the flavors.
  • Optional “crust” layer: 2–3 crushed graham crackers or 2 tablespoons almond meal mixed with 1 teaspoon melted butter or coconut oil.
  • Optional toppings: Fresh berries, a spoon of jam, lemon zest, cinnamon, or a drizzle of nut butter.

Method
 

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until spreadable. This prevents lumps.
  2. Make the cheesecake base: In a mixing bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, lemon juice, sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until creamy and fully combined.
  3. Add protein powder: Sprinkle in the protein powder and whisk again. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
  4. Stir in milk and chia seeds: Pour in the milk and whisk until smooth. Stir in the chia seeds, mixing well so they don’t clump. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to redistribute the seeds.
  5. Optional crust layer: If using, press a thin layer of crushed graham crackers or almond meal “crust” into the bottom of jars. You can also skip this for a lower-carb version.
  6. Portion and chill: Divide the pudding into 3–4 jars or bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, until thick and set.
  7. Top and serve: Add berries, a swirl of jam, lemon zest, or cinnamon. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed before serving.