Dessert

High-Protein Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding Recipe

ByHarper Ellington October 23, 2025October 23, 2025

Introduction

This High-Protein Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding captures the tangy, creamy flavor of classic key lime pie without the guilt. Made with chia seeds, Greek yogurt, and fresh lime juice, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Naturally sweetened and easy to prepare ahead, it’s perfect for breakfast or a refreshing snack.

A clear glass jar contains a layered chia pudding with three main layers: the bottom and top are a light green pudding with visible chia seeds giving a speckled texture, while the middle layer is a white chia pudding with dark chia seeds mixed in, creating a dotted look. On top of the jar is a small white cream dollop, sprinkled with small brown crunchy granola pieces, and garnished with a thin lime wedge and a few curly lime peel strips placed in the center. The jar is placed on a white marbled surface, and a shiny gold spoon lies flat nearby on the right side of the jar. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based high-protein yogurt)
¼ cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (preferably key lime)
1 tablespoon lime zest
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

Optional toppings:

Additional Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt
Crushed graham crackers or granola
Toasted shredded coconut
Lime zest or slices

Instructions

Step 1: Zest your lime first using a microplane or citrus zester, then cut and juice it to get about 2 tablespoons of juice and 1 tablespoon of zest.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl or jar, whisk together almond milk, Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth.
Step 3: Add the chia seeds and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the seeds.
Step 4: Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Seal the container and refrigerate overnight.
Step 5: In the morning, stir the pudding and top with extra yogurt, lime zest, crushed graham crackers, or toasted coconut as desired. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use key limes if possible—they have a sweeter, more aromatic flavor than regular limes.
Zest the lime before juicing to maximize flavor.
For a silky smooth texture, blend the mixture before refrigerating.
Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
Add crunchy toppings like graham crackers or coconut just before serving to keep them crisp.
For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut or almond yogurt and use plant-based milk.
Replace maple syrup with stevia or monk fruit drops for a low-sugar option.
Increase protein by stirring in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or collagen peptides.
Use gluten-free graham crackers or skip toppings if you need a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store the chia pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk before serving. Keep dry toppings separate to prevent sogginess. You can also freeze individual portions and thaw them overnight in the fridge when ready to eat.