– **Title**: Low Carb Protein Pudding
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any low-carb milk)
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (preferably low-carb)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for chocolate flavor)
– 1-2 tablespoons sweetener of choice (like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds (for added thickness and nutrition)
– A pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: whipped cream, nuts, or berries (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, protein powder, cocoa powder (if using), sweetener, vanilla extract, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt.
2. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and no lumps remain.
3. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or bowls.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Before serving, give the pudding a good stir. Top with whipped cream, nuts, or berries if desired.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy your low carb protein pudding!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsweetened almond milk: This is a great low-carb milk alternative, but you can also use coconut milk or any unsweetened nut milk. If you prefer, full-fat coconut milk will give a creamier texture but has more carbs.
Chocolate protein powder: Look for a low-carb option, but if you don’t have any, vanilla protein powder can work too. Just be mindful of the flavor difference; you might want to add a bit more cocoa powder.
Erythritol: This natural sweetener is low in carbs, but you can substitute it with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the amount to your taste, as some sweeteners are stronger.
Heavy whipping cream: For a lighter option, you can use unsweetened coconut cream or full-fat Greek yogurt, but keep in mind it may affect the texture.
How Do I Ensure My Whipped Cream is Perfect?
Whipping cream can be tricky, but it’s key for a light and airy pudding. Here are a few tips to make it easy:
- Use chilled heavy cream for better results; it whips faster and holds shape longer.
- Start mixing on low speed to combine, then increase to medium-high until soft peaks form.
- Be careful not to over-whip, or it might turn into butter! Stop when you see peaks that softly hold their shape.
Gently fold the whipped cream into your mixture using a spatula. This keeps the pudding from becoming flat. Enjoy your creamy, chocolatey delight!
How to Make Low Carb Protein Pudding
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any low-carb milk alternative)
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (preferably low-carb)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp erythritol or any low-carb sweetener, to taste
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
For Topping:
- 2 tbsp sugar-free chocolate chips (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the pudding and then an additional 30 minutes to chill it in the refrigerator. That’s only 40 minutes total for this delicious and healthy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Pudding Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium mixing bowl and adding the unsweetened almond milk, chocolate protein powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, erythritol (or your low-carb sweetener), vanilla extract, and salt. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. You want to make sure there are no lumps!
2. Whip the Heavy Cream:
Next, grab another bowl and pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium speed until soft peaks form. This means the cream should be fluffy, and when you lift the beaters out, it should hold a peak that gently droops. Be careful not to overwhip!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture you made earlier. Use a spatula and carefully incorporate the whipped cream until it’s mixed in well but still fluffy. This helps keep the pudding light and airy!
4. Chill the Pudding:
Transfer the pudding mixture into your favorite serving dishes or jars. Once done, place them in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the pudding set nicely!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, once your pudding has chilled and set, take it out and sprinkle some sugar-free chocolate chips on top for that extra yummy touch. If you want, you can also add a dusting of additional cocoa powder. Grab a spoon and dig in—enjoy your low carb protein pudding!
Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute unsweetened almond milk with any low-carb milk alternative like coconut milk, soy milk, or cashew milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the carb count low.
What If I Don’t Have Erythritol?
No problem! You can use other low-carb sweeteners such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just adjust the quantity according to your taste, as sweetness levels vary between sweeteners.
How to Store Leftover Protein Pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pudding will firm up even more as it chills, and you can give it a quick stir before serving again to revive its smooth texture!
Can I Make This Pudding Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dessert dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy whipping cream with a dairy-free whipping cream alternative, like coconut cream. Just chill the can of coconut cream first, and then whip it up for a similar texture.
