Description

This High-Protein Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding delivers the tangy, creamy flavor of classic key lime pie in a healthy, guilt-free form. Made with chia seeds, protein-rich Greek yogurt (or a plant-based alternative), fresh lime juice, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead breakfasts or refreshing snacks, this pudding mimics the texture and taste of pie filling with a nutritious twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Base 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 lime slices

Instructions

Zest and Juice the Lime: Start by zesting your lime using a microplane or citrus zester. Then cut and juice the lime to yield about 2 tablespoons of juice and 1 tablespoon of zest. This preserves the aromatic citrus oils and provides vibrant flavor.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl or jar, whisk together the almond milk, Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Stir in Chia Seeds: Add the chia seeds along with a pinch of sea salt to the liquid mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed and begin absorbing the liquid.
Let It Sit and Stir Again: Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, then give it another good stir to prevent chia seeds from clumping. Seal the container and refrigerate the pudding overnight for optimal thickening and flavor melding.
Top and Serve: The next morning, stir the pudding to a smooth consistency. Serve topped with optional ingredients like extra yogurt, fresh lime zest, crushed graham crackers, or toasted coconut to emulate the classic key lime pie experience.

Notes

Use key limes if possible for a more aromatic and authentic flavor.
Zest the lime before juicing to capture the maximum citrus aroma.
For a silkier texture, blend the mixture before refrigerating.
Chill the pudding overnight for best texture and flavor development; 4 hours minimum is acceptable.
Add crunchy toppings like graham crackers or toasted coconut just before serving to maintain crisp textures.
This pudding keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir in a splash of milk if it thickens too much before serving.
Freeze individual portions and thaw overnight for easy future servings.
Dairy-free options: substitute with coconut or almond yogurt and plant-based milks.
For low sugar, replace maple syrup with stevia or monk fruit drops.
Boost protein by adding vanilla protein powder or collagen peptides.
Ensure topping options are gluten-free if needed by choosing gluten-free graham crackers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: key lime pie, chia pudding, high protein, healthy dessert, vegan option, make ahead breakfast, no bake, gluten free dessert