Chocolate pudding meets chocolate protein pudding! I loved chocolate pudding growing up (snack packs anyone?!) and while I haven’t had one in over a decade, my love for pudding still runs deep.
And that’s where this protein pudding comes in. A fun spin on a classic, made with 2 secret ingredients, although not so secret if you know me. Of course, we are using cottage cheese (I promise you can’t taste it)! It gives it a creamy texture along with an excellent protein boost. Additionally, I added in an avocado for more creaminess and some healthy fats.
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The beauty of cottage cheese pudding is that it requires no work. All you need to do is add all the ingredients to a blender and blend. It has a rich chocolate flavor, is super creamy, and is packed with 17 grams of protein. Make it for a healthy dessert recipe or post-workout snack!
Why you’ll love this chocolate protein pudding recipe
- 17 grams of protein per serving
- made with simple ingredients – no instant pudding mix required!
- macro-balanced – a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats for stable blood sugar and energy levels, unlike traditional pudding.
- great for meal prep – make a batch or two for an easy and healthy sweet treat throughout the week.
Is pudding healthy?
Pudding is traditionally made from milk, eggs, sugar, and cocoa powder. Store-bought and instant pudding can be full of preservatives, lots of added sugar, and unnecessary ingredients so it’s important to look at the ingredient label. They can be enjoyed in moderation, but something to think about if you have specific goals.
But this cottage cheese pudding recipe makes a delicious healthy addition to one’s diet! We are using cottage cheese, an avocado, and adding protein powder to make sure it doesn’t spike your blood sugar.
Is pudding gluten-free?
Most pudding recipes and store-bought varieties are gluten-free. It’s always best to read labels or ask to be safe though.
Chocolate protein pudding ingredients
- cottage cheese – I like using full-fat.
- avocado – to make it extra creamy!
- maple syrup
- chocolate protein powder – I used chocolate collagen, but any kind of protein powder will work.
- cocoa powder
- sea salt
How to make protein pudding
- Make protein pudding. Add ingredients to a high-powered blender or food processor and blend until smooth, creamy, and well combined. If needed, stop the blender occasionally to push down the ingredients.
- Let chill (optional). If desired, transfer the mixture to a jar or bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or longer) to chill.
- Enjoy! Top with toppings and enjoy!
How long does pudding last in the refrigerator?
Store leftovers in a sealable airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. As it sits, it will get a little thicker, so just give it a good stir before eating.
Can I freeze pudding?
I would not recommend freezing this cottage cheese chocolate pudding as the texture can change once defrosted.
Substitutions and additions
- cottage cheese – I like using full-fat for the best flavor, but low-fat and fat-free will also work. I haven’t tried this, but you could try to sub full-fat greek yogurt, but the result might be a little tangy.
- avocado – this can be left out if you want, but it might not be as creamy.
- maple syrup – any liquid sweetener like honey or agave syrup can be used instead. I have not tried a granulated sweetener.
- chocolate protein powder – I used chocolate collagen as I feel like it blends the easiest. You can also you whey protein powder or vegan protein powder. With a vegan powder, the texture might be a little gritty as they are usually thicker. You can also use another flavor if you want.
- cocoa powder – I like using dark cocoa powder but regular or cacao powder will work.
Here are some additions you can add:
- cinnamon
- vanilla extract
- nut butter – add a spoonful or two of peanut butter or almond butter.
More healthy protein desserts
- chocolate chia pudding
- protein hot chocolate
- apple cinnamon protein cookies
- protein peanut butter cups
If you love quick and easy meals and want to learn how to build a balanced plate, check out our FREE How to Build a Balanced Plate Guide!
Protein Pudding
equipment
ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese (440 grams)
- 1 small avocado (80 grams)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder (25 grams – I used chocolate collagen)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- pinch of sea salt
- for serving – whipped cream, fresh berries, sliced banana, shaved chocolate, chocolate chips, cacao nibs, shredded coconut…
instructions
- Make protein pudding. Add ingredients to a high-powered blender or food processor and blend until smooth, creamy, and well combined. If needed, stop the blender occasionally to push down the ingredients.
- Let chill (optional). If desired, transfer the mixture to a jar or bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or longer) to chill. As it sits, the consistency will thicken.
- Enjoy! Top with toppings and enjoy!
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nutrition
Recipe by Kelly Nardo, Eat the Gains | Photography by Sierra Inn
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I made the recipe exactly as is and I think it’s great.
I had to tamper a lot on the vitamix to get it to blend but it worked.
Glad it worked and happy to hear you enjoyed it, Dayna! Thanks for trying it!
Well, all I have is a small ‘smoothie’ single serve blender. It wasn’t powerful enough, or large enough. I made it in two parts, and had to add Greek yogurt and some milk to it to get my blender to do its thing. 🤣
I thank you for the recipe, I needed more protein and smooth foods- stupid braces.
Guess it might be time for a blender upgrade.
So glad you enjoyed it and were able to get it to work! Adding some liquid (like milk) would help as well. Thanks, Erin!
Amazing recipe! Can I replace the maple syrup with a Keto sweetener? TIA! Would love to try this. 💖
Hey, Annie! Sure, I don’t see why not. I would just use a liquid sweetener to help with the consistency. Let me know how it goes!