Ingredients
2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup (2 scoops) protein powder (chocolate, vanilla, or unflavored)
1/4 cup granulated sweetener (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons cornstarch or tapioca starch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, protein powder, sweetener, cornstarch, and salt until no lumps remain.
2. Gradually add about 1/2 cup of milk, whisking into a smooth paste. Then whisk in the remaining milk until fully combined.
3. Place saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until mixture thickens (about 5-8 minutes). Do not let it boil rapidly; a gentle simmer is enough.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Divide into serving bowls or containers. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each pudding to prevent skin formation.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours until fully set and cold. Serve cold.
Notes
For a dairy-free/vegan version, use plant-based milk and plant-based protein powder. Whey or casein protein yields a creamier texture; for a thicker pudding, use casein. Adjust sweetener based on your protein powder’s sweetness. To avoid lumps, whisk dry ingredients thoroughly before adding milk. Chilling is essential for proper set and flavor development.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert/Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be made vegetarian; can be adapted to gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan with substitutions
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/2 cup)
- Calories: 218
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 20mg