Protein Coconut Cream Pie Chia Pudding Cups

4.74 from 15 votes
Jump to RecipeEmail Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

These protein-packed coconut cream pie chia pudding cups are the perfect make-ahead dessert (or breakfast!) Not only are they full of amazing flavors like vanilla bean and creamy coconut, but the protein content is next level thanks to the chia seeds and protein powder. 

To really go out with a bang, we topped ’em with a delicious coconut whip that sets this creamy chia pudding apart from the rest.

Two jars of chia pudding on a marble counter.
email me this recipe
Plus, enjoy weekly doses of recipe inspiration as a bonus!
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
The logo for protein desserts on a red background.

If there is one recipe on Fit Foodie Finds that the whole team is obsessed with, it’s this coconut cream pie chia pudding. It legit tastes like coconut cream pie, is sweet without being too sweet, and is the perfect protein-packed dessert (or breakfast!).

What’s In Coconut Cream Pie Chia Pudding?

  • Chia seeds: black chia seeds absorb all the creamy coconut milk, making a luscious pudding-like texture.
  • Vanilla protein powder: we used Vital Protein Vanilla Coconut Collagen Protein Powder for a boost of protein and flavor! Feel free to use your favorite protein powder if you wish.
  • Unsweetened coconut milk: use canned or cartoned full-fat coconut milk for best results.
  • Agave syrup: agave syrup is used for both the chia pudding and coconut whip. It’s an excellent natural sweetener that pairs well with the coconut flavors.
  • Shredded coconut: you’ll again want to use unsweetened coconut so that the pudding doesn’t become too sweet. It adds a lot of extra coconut flavor!
  • Coconut chips: similar to coconut flakes, these chips will be the perfect crunchy topping for this chia seed pudding recipe.
  • Coconut cream: this is whipped to perfection to make the tasty coconut whip topping. Make sure to refrigerate to separate the cream from the liquid before using.

Best Protein Powders

Check out our top protein powder recommendations for baking, smoothies, and everything in between.

All the ingredients for a chia pudding in bowls on a marble table.

Variations and Substitutions

Of course, you can pave your own scrumptious path with this creamy coconut chia pudding. For instance, you could replace the vanilla protein powder with chocolate protein powder, or add some cacao powder to make a chocolate chia seed pudding! Note that the brand of protein powder will change the flavor slightly. 

You could also use maple syrup or honey instead of agave syrup. The flavor will change slightly based on what sweetener is used, but it will still be delicious. If you don’t have any coconut milk on hand, other plant-based milk like almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk work just fine. Just know that the flavor and texture will vary from using coconut milk.

There is also always room for a little bit of fun! Additions like fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or even peanut butter can give this chia seed pudding a unique twist. Go ahead and experiment to find your favorite flavor combination!

A bowl of ingredients in a pan with a wooden spoon.

FAQ

What are coconut chips?

Coconut chips are essentially coconut flakes that are toasted and crispy. In this recipe, we make our coconut chips homemade by simply roasting shredded coconut in the oven until golden brown and crunchy. This adds a delicious texture to the chia pudding cups.

Why is my chia seed pudding not thickening?

This recipe should give you the perfect consistency, but if you have some substitutions in your recipe, the texture may vary. If your pudding is too thin, simply add more chia seeds!  For every 1 teaspoon of chia seeds, add another tablespoon and let it sit for another 30 minutes to thicken.

Is this coconut milk chia pudding good for meal prep?

You bet it is! This recipe was created with meal prep in mind. Make a batch of these creamy chia pudding cups on Sunday and have breakfast ready to go for the week. It’s a convenient way to start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that will keep you full and satisfied. 

Storage + Freezer Directions

Use a ½ cup scoop to separate the coconut cream pie chia pudding into 4-6 airtight containers, preferably glass. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze, place in a freezer-safe, airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 to 4 weeks.

Two jars of chia pudding on a marble counter.
White jars stacked.

W&P

Jars

The W&P Porter Seal Tight Jar holds 16 oz. and is perfect for oats, soups, salad, etc.

What to Serve with Coconut Cream Pie Chia Pudding

Just as there are plenty of different ways to enjoy these creamy puddings, there are also a variety of great dishes to pair them with. We’ll focus on breakfast since this recipe is perfect for meal prepping your breakfasts. 

Here are a few of our favorites:

4.74 from 15 votes

Protein Coconut Cream Pie Chia Pudding Cups

This protein-packed coconut cream pie chia pudding is the perfect protein dessert for coconut lovers and busy bees. Made with a homemade coconut whip and coconut chip topping, it's a delicious luxury that you've been waiting for!
Prep: 30 minutes
Cook: 1 minute
Total: 31 minutes
Servings: 8
email me this recipe
Plus, enjoy weekly doses of recipe inspiration!
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Ingredients 

  • ½ cup chia seeds
  • ½ cup vanilla protein powder, we used Vital Protein Vanilla Coconut Collagen Protein
  • 3 cups unsweetened coconut milk, canned or cartoned
  • 2 tablespoons agave syrup
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup shredded, unsweetened coconut
  • ½ cup coconut chips

Coconut Whip

  • 15 oz. coconut cream, refrigerated to separate
  • 2 teaspoons agave syrup

Instructions 

  • Add the chia seeds, protein powder, coconut milk, agave syrup, and vanilla extract into a large bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until there are no protein powder chunks left in the bowl.
    A bowl of ingredients in a pan with a wooden spoon.
  • Add the salt and shredded coconut and stir again.
    A person whisking chia seeds into a bowl.
  • Cover and transfer the bowl to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  • Prepare the toasted coconut. Transfer the shredded coconut to a baking sheet. Turn the heat to broil and toast the coconut for 30 seconds to a minute or until the coconut has browned. Remove immediately and set aside.
    a metal pan filled with food on top of a counter.
  • Prepare the coconut whip. Add the hardened part of the coconut cream to a mixing bowl along with the agave syrup. Use an electric hand mixer to whip until it forms peaks.
  • After 2 hours (or longer) when the chia seed pudding is thick and creamy, use a ½ cup to separate it into 4-6 containers. Top each cup with whip and toasted coconut. Enjoy.
    Chia pudding in a jar with a spoon.

Tips & Notes

  • The brand of protein powder used will change the flavor slightly.
  • You can used canned coconut milk or coconut milk in a carton.
  • Maple syrup or honey can be used in place of the agave syrup. The flavor will change slightly based on what sweetener is used.

Watch It

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”nW0RoHrF” upload-date=”2024-01-08T19:06:49.000Z” name=”Protein Coconut Cream Pie Chia Pudding Cups ” description=”This protein-packed coconut cream pie chia pudding is the perfect breakfast for coconut lovers and busy bees. Made with a homemade coconut whip and coconut chip topping, it’s a delicious luxury that you’ve been waiting for!” player-type=”default” override-embed=”default”]

Nutrition

Calories: 539 kcal, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 11 g, Fat: 48 g, Fiber: 8 g, Sugar: 10 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

love this? leave a comment below!

Don’t forget to tag your posts on social media with the hashtag #fitfoodiefinds, we’d love to see what you’re up to!

Photography: photos taken in this post are by Ashley McGlaughlin from The Edible Perspective.

Similar Recipes:

About Linley Hanson

Linley has played an important role in the success of Fit Foodie Finds over the last 10 years. She is an incredible home cook and has an amazing palate. She is the brain behind our recipes and has spent thousands of hours developing, testing, and perfecting the delicious meals you see here at Fit Foodie Finds.

5 1 vote
Recipe Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
Recipe Rating




Recipe Rating

17 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Rachel Pierce
Rachel Pierce
January 30, 2024 1:50 pm

5 stars
I have been on a big coconut kick and this was a fun treat! Is have not made chia seed pudding before and this was tasty! Very light but still protein filled!

IMG_0561
Claire
Claire
January 29, 2024 10:25 pm

5 stars
I made these for meal prep breakfast this week! Love the flavor combo of the chia seeds and coconut milk! The extra protein is keeping me full til lunch, which is awesome!

1000005343
Leslie
January 29, 2024 7:57 pm

I added some chocolate syrup on top because, why not?!

fff
Leslie
January 29, 2024 7:52 pm

4 stars
I added some chocolate syrup on top because why not?!

Madi
Madi
January 29, 2024 7:04 pm

4 stars
Fun snack and a flavor I donโ€™t enjoy often enough! Left the whip off because I meal prepped these as an after school snack for the week but will have to try again with the topping!

IMG_2764
Sara
Sara
January 28, 2024 11:12 am

5 stars
This chia pudding is so delicious! It definitely has the flavor of a rich coconut cream pie. The coconut whip is worth the extra step!

IMG_0249