Kid-Friendly Chocolate Protein Pudding Recipe
Is there any childhood snack more classic than chocolate pudding? This lunchbox staple, although delicious, isn’t exactly packed with nutrition. The good news is, there are plenty of ways you can add nutrition and transform basic pudding into something your kids will love and you can feel great about serving. This Chocolate Protein Pudding recipe is a leveled up DIY Snack Pack. It’s quick, easy, nutritious, and filling. The whole family will enjoy making this snack together.
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How Much Protein Do Kids Need?
It’s easier for kids to meet their protein needs than many parents think. However, the issue is usually meeting their needs consistently. Picky eating and varying appetites are usually to blame for younger kids, who need 19 grams of protein per day.
Protein needs increase with age. Children 9 to 13 years old need 34 grams of protein per day. From 14 to 18 years old, boys need 52 grams of protein per day and girls need 46 grams.
Of course, as your kids get older, their protein needs will vary depending mostly on their activity level.
Protein Has Something For the Whole Family
Why protein pudding? A little extra protein goes a long way for the entire family.
When your kids come home from school hungry for a snack, this pudding can be ready and waiting in the fridge. Protein will keep your kids satiated and full, so they’re not asking for another snack while you’re trying to cook dinner.
If you have older kids in sports, this is a great snack to keep on hand for fuel before or after practice. With 10 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is a good pre or post-workout snack for mom and dad too!
Snack Time Nutrition
For many kids, snacks make up a large part of daily nutrition. It’s important to use snack time to squeeze in some of the nutrients that children tend to lack, especially if you have a picky eater on your hands.
Fiber is a great example. Although experts recommend that kids get around 25 grams of fiber per day, many aren’t meeting that recommendation regularly.
Adding protein to a kid’s favorite, like pudding, is already a plus. This protein pudding also has a bonus of 6 grams of fiber per serving.
How to Make Chocolate Protein Pudding
Chia pudding typically has a texture that kids may not love. In this recipe, blending the chia seeds with the other ingredients creates a smooth, kid-friendly texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup non-dairy milk (or milk of choice)
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 scoop pea protein powder from Naked Nutrition
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until completely smooth.
- Pour pudding into a container (divide into smaller servings if you’d like) and chill for at least 2 hours. Chilling overnight will allow pudding to firm up even more.
- Add optional toppings and enjoy.
* this recipe makes 2 servings of pudding
* refrigerate up to 3 days
Nutrition
Calories: 181 | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 23g | Fiber: 6g | Protein: 10g
Chocolate Protein Pudding Recipe Is Fun For The Whole Family
Your kids will love making their own creations with this Chocolate Protein Pudding and toppings like fresh berries, whipped coconut cream, chocolate chips, or even gummy worms. They can even add nuts or granola to create a parfait to enjoy as a snack, dessert, or a quick, healthy breakfast!
For more on this topic, check out the full Staying Healthy collection
