Bright, zesty, and packed with protein, this creamy lemon chia seed pudding is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast or snack—easy to customize and refreshingly satisfying!
A Light & Lively Breakfast That Fuels You All Day
If you’re looking for something that feels indulgent but is secretly packed with good-for-you ingredients, this High-Protein Lemon Chia Seed Pudding is about to become your new favorite meal prep staple. It’s creamy, tangy, naturally sweetened, and delivers a satisfying punch of protein thanks to the addition of Greek yogurt and chia seeds.
Chia seed pudding has long been one of my go-to snacks and breakfasts, but adding lemon zest and protein makes this one something really special. The citrus flavor is like sunshine in a bowl, and it balances perfectly with the mellow creaminess of almond milk and yogurt. The texture? Thick, luscious, and spoonable—like a guilt-free lemon mousse.
It’s also a fantastic option for busy mornings or mid-afternoon pick-me-ups. This recipe requires only a handful of pantry ingredients and about 5 minutes of hands-on time. Stir it together the night before, and you’ll wake up to a ready-to-eat treat that’s energizing and delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ⅓ cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (dairy or dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh blueberries or raspberries
- Crushed almonds or pistachios
- Extra lemon zest or coconut flakes
- Dollop of yogurt or whipped coconut cream
Pro Tips
- Zest before you juice – It’s much easier to zest a whole lemon than a halved one!
- Use high-protein yogurt – Greek-style yogurt packs more protein and makes the pudding extra thick and creamy.
- Stir twice – Stir once right after mixing, then again 10 minutes later to prevent chia clumps.
- Chill for at least 4 hours – Letting it set overnight creates the best texture.
- Double the batch – This pudding keeps well for up to 5 days, so make a few jars at once for meal prep!
Tools You’ll Need
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Zester or microplane
- Citrus juicer
- Mason jar or small container with lid
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free? Use a thick coconut or almond yogurt for a creamy, plant-based version.
- Sweeter? Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup or a touch of honey if not vegan.
- Extra lemony? Add a few drops of lemon extract or more zest.
- Boost the protein – Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and increase milk to thin it slightly.
- Berry swirl – Mix in a spoonful of berry compote or fresh mashed fruit before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
This pudding is ideal for prepping in advance. Make it the night before and store it in jars in the fridge for up to 5 days. Add toppings just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
You can also freeze the base (without toppings) in silicone cups or small containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and top fresh in the morning!
How to Make High-Protein Lemon Chia Seed Pudding
1. Mix the Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond milk, yogurt, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the Chia Seeds
Stir in chia seeds and mix well to combine. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Chill Overnight
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
4. Garnish and Serve
Stir the pudding before serving. Top with lemon zest, berries, nuts, or coconut flakes as desired.
Leftovers and Storage
Store your pudding in individual containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, but you can also warm it slightly for a different twist.
Wait to add toppings until just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp. If the pudding thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Bright, Fresh, and Full of Nourishment
This High-Protein Lemon Chia Seed Pudding is everything we want in a breakfast or snack—it’s simple, refreshing, nutritious, and totally delicious. Whether you eat it straight from the jar or dress it up with fruit and nuts, it’s a recipe that works hard for you while tasting like a treat.
If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you go all-in on lemon? Add berries or protein powder? Leave a comment below and let’s celebrate all things citrusy and creamy together.
