Creamy 20g-Protein Tiramisu Chia Pudding with Greek Yogurt

I’ll never forget the first time I tried to make a healthy version of tiramisu – it was a total disaster! The flavors were off, the texture was weird, and my coffee-loving husband just gave me that look. After years of experimenting (and plenty of failed attempts), I finally cracked the code for a tiramisu chia pudding with Greek yogurt that actually satisfies those creamy, coffee-kissed cravings.

What makes this dessert special? It’s all about that magical chia seed transformation. These tiny powerhouses soak up liquid overnight, creating a pudding-like texture without any cooking. When paired with protein-packed Greek yogurt and a dusting of cocoa, you get all the indulgence of classic tiramisu with none of the guilt.

As someone who’s tested more chia pudding variations than I can count, I can tell you this version hits all the right notes – silky texture, balanced sweetness, and that perfect coffee-chocolate harmony we love in tiramisu. Plus, it’s ready when you wake up, making it my secret weapon for impressive (yet effortless) breakfasts and desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Chia Pudding with Greek Yogurt

This isn’t just another chia pudding recipe—it’s your new secret weapon for delicious, guilt-free indulgence. Here’s why I’m obsessed:

• Effortless elegance: Looks fancy but takes just 10 minutes of active prep (then let the fridge do the work!)
• Breakfast or dessert: Satisfies sweet cravings while packing 20g of protein per serving
• No-bake magic: Perfect for when your kitchen feels like a sauna but you still want something special
• Texture heaven: Creamy Greek yogurt meets the silkiest chia pudding you’ll ever taste
• Customizable: Adjust coffee strength, sweetness, or toppings to make it yours

Healthy and Satisfying

What makes this dessert truly special? It’s that rare treat where you actually feel good after eating it. The Greek yogurt gives you a protein boost that keeps you full, while chia seeds deliver a whopping 10g of fiber per serving—that’s nearly half your daily needs! Yet somehow, it still tastes like you’re cheating. My husband still can’t believe something this creamy comes without heavy cream or refined sugar.

Ingredients for Tiramisu Chia Pudding with Greek Yogurt

Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle with this recipe – trust me, I’ve learned the hard way! Here’s what you’ll need for that perfect tiramisu flavor:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds (black or white both work)
• 1 cup milk (I use whole dairy for creaminess, but unsweetened almond milk works great too)
• 1/3 cup strong brewed coffee, completely cooled (or 1-2 tsp instant espresso + 1/3 cup water)
• 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey (start with 1, add more to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (the real stuff makes a difference!)
• Pinch of salt (balances all the flavors)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (0-2% or whole milk variety for extra creaminess)
• 1-2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for that classic tiramisu dusting)
• Optional: A few crushed almond cookies or biscotti crumbs for texture

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

No brewed coffee? No problem! Instant espresso powder works beautifully – just dissolve 1-2 tsp in 1/3 cup hot water, then cool it completely. For dairy-free, swap the milk for almond or oat milk and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek (though the texture will be thinner).

If you’re out of maple syrup, honey works equally well, or you can use 1-2 Tbsp coconut sugar dissolved in the warm coffee mixture. Just taste as you go – I like mine just sweet enough to balance the coffee’s bitterness.

Ingredients for Tiramisu Chia Pudding with Greek Yogurt

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dreamy dessert (measurements matter – trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!):

• Chia pudding layer: 1/4 cup chia seeds, 1 cup milk (I use whole dairy, but unsweetened almond works great), 1/3 cup strong brewed coffee (must be cooled!), 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup (start with 1 if you’re not a sweet tooth), 1 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt
• Creamy topping: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (0-2% keeps it light, whole milk makes it extra rich), 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup (optional, but I always add just a touch), 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Finishing touches: 1-2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting, a few crushed almond cookies or biscotti crumbs if you’re feeling fancy

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

No brewed coffee? No problem! Mix 1-2 tsp instant espresso with 1/3 cup hot water, then cool completely. Dairy-free? Swap in your favorite unsweetened almond or oat milk. For a lower-sugar version, skip the sweetener in the yogurt layer – the chia pudding’s subtle sweetness might be enough. And if you’re out of maple syrup, honey works beautifully (just warm it slightly first so it blends smoothly). The only thing I wouldn’t substitute? Those magical chia seeds – they’re the heart of this recipe!

How to Make Tiramisu Chia Pudding with Greek Yogurt

Here’s the fun part – turning those simple ingredients into a dessert that’ll make you feel like a kitchen wizard! The key is patience (those chia seeds need time to work their magic) and building those beautiful layers. Let me walk you through it.

Step 1: Mix the Chia Base

Start by grabbing your favorite mixing bowl – I use a big glass measuring cup because it pours easily. Whisk together the milk, cooled coffee, maple syrup, vanilla, and that pinch of salt (trust me, it makes all the difference). Now sprinkle in the chia seeds while whisking constantly to prevent clumping. After 5 minutes, come back and give it another good stir – this breaks up any seed clusters trying to form. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is so worth the wait!

Step 2: Layer with Greek Yogurt

While the chia pudding sets, whip up your creamy topping. Stir together the Greek yogurt with vanilla and a drizzle of maple syrup if you like it sweeter (I always do). When your chia pudding has thickened, spoon it into glasses or jars – I use clear ones because they show off those gorgeous layers. Top with the yogurt mixture, then grab your sieve for the final flourish: a generous dusting of cocoa powder that’ll make it look straight from a café. For extra crunch, sprinkle on some crushed almond cookies – the contrast with the creamy layers is heavenly!

Tips for Perfect Tiramisu Chia Pudding

Want foolproof results every time? Here are my hard-earned secrets after making this recipe dozens of times! First – don’t skip that second stir after 5 minutes – it prevents clumpy chia seeds. For maximum creaminess, refrigerate overnight (trust me, the wait is worth it). Taste the chia mixture before chilling – add more maple syrup if needed since flavors mellow in the fridge. When dusting with cocoa, use a fine-mesh sieve for that professional café look. And if you’re serving guests? Those crushed biscotti crumbs add the perfect crunch that makes everyone ask for the recipe!

Serving & Storage

The best part? This tiramisu chia pudding tastes even better after chilling overnight! Serve it straight from the fridge – the cold makes all those creamy layers extra refreshing. Leftovers (if you have any!) keep beautifully for 2-3 days in airtight containers. Just know the chia pudding will thicken more over time – I sometimes stir in a splash of milk before serving if it gets too dense. The cocoa dusting might sink in a bit, but a fresh sprinkle fixes that in seconds!

Tiramisu Chia Pudding Nutrition

Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s why I don’t feel guilty eating this for breakfast and dessert! Based on my exact recipe (with whole milk and maple syrup), each serving packs:

• 260 calories – lighter than traditional tiramisu by miles!
• 20g protein – thanks to that Greek yogurt powerhouse
• 10g fiber – nearly half your daily needs from those mighty chia seeds

Of course, your exact numbers will vary depending on ingredients – almond milk cuts calories slightly, while coconut yogurt changes the fat content. But no matter how you tweak it, this dessert delivers nutrition that’ll make you feel as good as it tastes!

FAQ

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
You can, but the texture won’t be as thick and creamy. Greek yogurt gives that signature tiramisu-like richness. If using regular yogurt, strain it through cheesecloth for an hour first to thicken it up a bit.

How long does this chia pudding keep in the fridge?
It stays perfect for 2-3 days in airtight containers – actually, the flavors blend even better overnight! Just give it a stir before serving if it separates slightly.

Can I make this without coffee?
Absolutely! Substitute the coffee with more milk for a caffeine-free version. You’ll lose that authentic tiramisu flavor, but it’ll still be delicious. Try adding 1/2 tsp cinnamon instead for warmth.

Why is my chia pudding too runny?
Three likely culprits: not enough chia seeds, insufficient chilling time (needs at least 2 hours), or not stirring enough initially. Next time, try adding an extra tablespoon of chia seeds and be patient – good things come to those who wait!

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