Tiramisu chia pudding with Greek yogurt feels like a smart way to enjoy a famous dessert in a lighter and nourishing style. It gives the same coffee and cocoa flavor that people love, but in a creamy pudding form that works for breakfast, snack time, or even a sweet treat before bed. The chia seeds soak up the liquid and turn thick and smooth, while Greek yogurt makes it rich and creamy just like classic tiramisu.
This recipe is naturally full of good nutrients. Chia seeds provide fiber, omega-3, and antioxidants that support digestion and steady energy. Greek yogurt brings protein, calcium, and friendly probiotics that can help keep your stomach happy. It feels like a dessert, but it is still wholesome and easy to include in a balanced routine, plus it can be prepared ahead for busy days.
I enjoy this recipe because it feels cozy, creamy, and so satisfying. Every spoonful tastes like a sweet treat but still feels light and comforting. I love how the mixture becomes silky once it is blended and how easy it is to prepare the night before for a perfect overnight treat. Making it in small jars makes it simple to store, and the high protein formula keeps me full, energized, and happy without any heavy feeling.
Ingredients
- For the Pudding Base
- For the Topping
Tools and Equipment Needed
- High-speed blender or food processor (for the smooth mousse-like texture)
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons
- Small mixing bowl (for preparing the topping cream)
- Whisk or small silicone spatula
- Spoon or silicone spatula for layering and smoothing
- Four small glass jars, ramekins, or meal-prep containers with lids
- Fine mesh cocoa sifter, tea strainer, or small sieve for dusting cocoa
- Refrigerator space for chilling the puddings
How to Make It?
- Gather your ingredients for the pudding base: Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla, milk, chia seeds, espresso powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Add all the pudding-base ingredients into a blender. Blend on medium-high until everything is completely smooth, about 60 seconds. Make sure to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula so no chia remains stuck to the walls. This blending step not only combines the ingredients but also whips air into the mixture, giving you a light, mousse-like consistency.
- Once the mixture is smooth, pour or spoon it evenly into four sealable jars or small containers. The chia will continue to thicken slightly as it chills, but since it is blended, it won’t become as gel-like as whole-seed chia pudding.
- In a separate small bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the topping is smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the topping evenly over each of the four jars, gently smoothing it with the back of a spoon to create a clean layer on top. Then dust the surface generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. This cocoa “dusting” is what gives it that iconic tiramisu look.
- Cover the jars and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. As the pudding chills, it thickens and the flavors meld, making it even more delicious.
- When you’re ready to enjoy, grab a spoon and dig in straight from the jar. The cocoa powder might sit on top but you can swirl it in or leave it as a pretty dusting. You can eat it chilled, or let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature if you want it slightly less firm.
Nutritional Value (Approximate Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~ 300 kcal |
| Protein | ~ 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~ 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~ 11 g |
| Sugars | ~ 15 g |
| Total Fat | ~ 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~ 2 g |
| Calcium | ~ 300 mg |
Caffeine-Free, Decaf-Friendly Tiramisu Twist
If you’re sensitive to caffeine or preparing this treat for children, this version keeps the classic tiramisu charm without the buzz. Simply swap instant espresso powder with decaf instant coffee. You’ll still enjoy the rich, roasted flavor profile that tiramisu is known for, but in a more relaxed and bedtime-friendly way.
To get the best taste, prepare the decaf coffee the same strength as regular espresso so it maintains depth and complexity. If using liquid decaf coffee instead of powder, reduce the milk slightly to preserve the silky, spoonable consistency. This variation is perfect for late-night dessert cravings, brunch menus, or anyone who prefers a gentler, feel-good treat.
More Desserts To Try!
English Toffee Apple Bread and Butter Pudding
High Protein Banana Cream Pudding
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Jar, Cup, or Bowl? Serving Inspirations for Every Occasion
1. Breakfast Jars on the Go
Charge your morning routine with ready-to-eat pudding jars. Spoon the tiramisu chia pudding into small mason jars, add a light dusting of cocoa or cinnamon, and seal tightly. Store in the fridge overnight so the flavors meld and the chia seeds soften.
In the morning, grab a jar and top it with fresh berries, sliced banana, or a sprinkle of granola for added crunch. This approach makes breakfast portable, nutritious, and perfectly portioned, ideal for busy mornings or quick meal prep.
2. Elegant Dinner Party Dessert
Impress guests with a sophisticated presentation by serving the pudding in petite glass parfait cups, stemless wine glasses, or even dessert shot glasses.
Create visual appeal by layering with cocoa powder, a swirl of melted chocolate, or a sprinkle of finely shaved dark chocolate. Add a small mint leaf or edible flower for a refined touch. This style turns a simple pudding into a gourmet dessert, perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
3. Showcase on a Brunch Table
For brunch gatherings, display multiple jars on a tray or tiered stand alongside other breakfast favorites like croissants, granola, and fresh fruit. Guests can mix and match toppings, adding a playful and interactive element to the meal.
Layering the pudding with different flavors, such as coffee and vanilla, adds visual variety and makes the spread feel curated and festive.
4. Afternoon Energy Boost
Keep individual jars ready in the fridge for a quick, wholesome snack. The combination of chia seeds, yogurt, and optional protein makes this pudding a filling, energy-boosting treat for mid-afternoon slumps.
Its creamy consistency and balanced fiber content keep hunger at bay while providing sustained energy without the heaviness of traditional desserts.
5. Weekly Protein Prep
For meal prep enthusiasts, make a larger batch and divide it into airtight containers or jars. Stored in the refrigerator, these pre-portioned puddings last several days, making them an easy grab-and-go breakfast, post-workout snack, or evening treat. ,
You can also layer in additional flavors, like a coffee layer, cocoa swirl, or fruit topping, to keep variety in your weekly routine while maintaining a consistent, high-protein, nutritious option.
High-Protein Power Upgrade
If you want to turn this pudding into a more filling and fitness-friendly meal, add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to the base before blending. This instantly increases the protein content, making it ideal as a post-workout snack, breakfast replacement, or long-lasting midday fuel.
Start with a small amount of protein powder and blend until smooth. Since protein powder naturally thickens the mixture, adjust the milk slowly until you reach a creamy, silky texture rather than a dense paste. Vanilla-flavored protein pairs beautifully with the tiramisu profile, while unflavored options keep the original taste unchanged.
The Plant-Powered Dairy-Free Version
For a creamy, indulgent tiramisu chia pudding without any dairy, simply switch to plant-based ingredients. Use a thick, Greek-style vegan yogurt, coconut, cashew, almond, or soy varieties work well. Pair it with a non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, oat, or coconut to maintain a smooth and luscious consistency.
To sweeten naturally, choose options like maple syrup or agave instead of regular sugar or honey. These blend effortlessly and add a subtle caramel-like sweetness that complements the tiramisu flavor.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Chia Pudding
1. Choose the Right Blender
A high-speed blender ensures the chia seeds fully break down, creating a creamy, mousse-like texture rather than a slightly gritty consistency. Smooth blending makes every spoonful luxurious and satisfying.
2. Chill Thoroughly
Allow the pudding to set in the fridge for at least two hours. For best results, let it chill overnight. This step gives the chia seeds time to absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a thick, indulgent consistency that holds its shape beautifully in jars or bowls.
3. Seal for Freshness
Store leftovers in airtight jars or containers. This not only preserves flavor and texture but also prevents the pudding from absorbing odors from the fridge. Proper sealing keeps each serving tasting just as fresh as the first.
4. Stir Before Serving
A slight separation can occur as the pudding sits. A gentle stir before serving re-incorporates any liquid and ensures a uniform, creamy texture with every bite.
5. Adjust Sweetness to Taste
Taste the mixture before chilling. If the espresso or coffee flavor feels too strong or bitter, add a touch more maple syrup, agave, or your preferred sweetener. Balancing the sweetness early ensures the final pudding is perfectly harmonious.
6. Don’t Skip the Cocoa Dusting
A light sprinkle of cocoa powder isn’t just decorative, it adds that iconic tiramisu finish while balancing the coffee notes. It’s a simple step that elevates both flavor and presentation.
Why This Recipe Works So Well for Nutrition
This tiramisu chia pudding hits several nutrition goals in one:
- High in Protein: Thanks to two cups of Greek yogurt in the base plus another cup for the topping, each serving provides a strong amount of protein. According to Lindsay, you’re looking at around 25 grams per serving.
- Rich in Fiber: Chia seeds are loaded with fiber and form a gel-like texture that supports fullness and digestion.
- Good Fats: Chia seeds also provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.
- Balanced Sweetness: The recipe uses maple syrup for natural sweetness, and the sugar is not overbearing.
- Digestive Friendly: The act of blending the chia seeds helps break down their hard outer shell. This could make them easier to digest and increase the availability of nutrients like omega-3s.
- Flexible Calories: Depending on the type of milk and yogurt you use, you can scale the calorie count up or down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with decaf coffee?
Yes, use decaf instant espresso or strong decaf brewed coffee to get the same flavor without the caffeine.
Is it okay to use flavored milk?
You can use any milk you like, almond, oat, or cow’s milk work, but if the milk is flavored (vanilla, sweetened), the pudding may taste sweeter or change texture slightly.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Definitely. Just double or triple all ingredients and blend in batches. Use larger jars or divide into more containers for serving.
What if I don’t like eartheny chia flavor?
Blending helps minimize that “earthy” texture. Also, make sure to use good-quality chia seeds and a strong blender.
Can I replace maple syrup with honey or stevia?
You can use honey instead of maple syrup. If using stevia or another sweetener, start with a small amount and adjust to taste carefully.
Tiramisu Chia Pudding With Greek Yougurt
Course: Recipes4
servings10
minutes1
hour1
hour10
minutesIngredients
For the pudding base:
2 cups plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based)
½ cup chia seeds
1.5 tablespoons instant espresso powder
A pinch of salt
For the topping:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
Directions
- Prepare your ingredients: Gather all ingredients for the pudding base. Measure the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, chia seeds, espresso powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend the base: Place all pudding-base ingredients into a high-speed blender. Blend on medium-high for about 60 seconds, scraping down the sides occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and mousse-like. This ensures the chia seeds are fully incorporated and the texture is creamy.
- Portion the pudding: Divide the blended pudding evenly into four jars or containers. Smooth the tops slightly with a spoon. The chia will continue to thicken as it chills, but the blender gives a creamy texture immediately.
- Prepare the topping: In a separate small bowl, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2 teaspoons maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and slightly airy.
- Layer the topping: Spoon the prepared topping evenly over each of the four pudding jars, creating a clean layer on top. Smooth with the back of a spoon or spatula.
- Dust with cocoa powder: Generously sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder on top of each jar to mimic the classic tiramisu finish.
- Chill to set: Cover the jars and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best results, chill overnight. The pudding will thicken further and the flavors will meld beautifully.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve straight from the jar. Optionally, stir gently to mix the cocoa into the pudding before eating.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can increase the espresso powder slightly, but taste before adding more.
- For a thicker pudding, use a little less milk. For a softer texture, add a splash more milk before blending.
- Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest, most dessert-like texture, while low-fat keeps it lighter.
- Let it chill overnight if you want the most developed flavor and the thickest consistency.
- You can blend the topping for extra creaminess, but whisking by hand works perfectly too.
- Store jars at the back of the fridge, not near the door, for the best freshness.
