The Ultimate Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding: High-Protein, Easy Meal Prep Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the perfect Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding a creamy, decadent, and unbelievably healthy treat that works equally well as a quick breakfast, a post-workout recovery snack, or a guilt-free dessert. If you’re looking for a simple, no-bake recipe that delivers maximum flavor and nutritional punch with minimal effort, you’ve found your holy grail. This recipe takes only ten minutes to prepare before letting the magic happen overnight in the fridge. Say goodbye to dry, chalky protein shakes and hello to spoonable, luxurious chocolate goodness.

In a world obsessed with efficiency and health, the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding stands out as a true champion. It combines the power of high-quality protein powder (essential for muscle repair and satiety) with the incredible fiber and omega-3 content of chia seeds, all wrapped up in a rich, velvety chocolate blanket. Whether you follow a vegan, keto, or gluten-free diet, this customizable recipe fits seamlessly into any healthy lifestyle. Prepare a batch on Sunday night, and enjoy delicious, nutrient-dense breakfasts all week long!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding

This isn’t just another healthy breakfast recipe; it’s a commitment to delicious efficiency. There are countless reasons why this Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding has become a staple in healthy kitchens worldwide. It manages to tick every box: taste, nutrition, convenience, and versatility. Forget the morning rush; with this recipe prepped, your breakfast is ready before your alarm clock even rings.

Unbeatable Convenience and Meal Prep Magic

The number one reason people adore chia pudding is the preparation method: set it and forget it. This Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding requires zero cooking. All the hard work is done by the chia seeds as they swell and create that satisfying pudding texture while you sleep. You can easily scale this recipe up to make three or four servings, perfectly fitting into your weekly meal-prep routine. Grabbing a jar of this delicious, high protein pudding from the fridge on a busy morning is a game-changer, ensuring you start your day nourished and satisfied.

Decadent Flavor Without the Guilt

Many healthy recipes sacrifice flavor for nutrition, but this is a rare exception. By combining high-quality chocolate protein powder with extra cocoa powder, we achieve a deeply rich, almost dark chocolate flavor profile. The subtle sweetness from maple syrup and a hint of vanilla elevates it beyond a mere health food into a genuine dessert experience. It tastes remarkably similar to chocolate mousse or a decadent overnight oats recipe, but offers superior benefits thanks to the inclusion of protein and chia seeds.

Customizable to Your Dietary Needs

Whether you are dairy-free, aiming for low sugar, or strictly plant-based, this Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is inherently flexible. The base relies on an unsweetened milk alternative, making it naturally dairy-free. Using plant-based protein powder keeps it vegan, and it is entirely gluten-free and grain-free. This flexibility means you don’t have to compromise your dietary restrictions to enjoy a fantastic, satisfying meal. You can adjust the type of sweetener, the flavor of the protein powder, and the milk base to suit your specific taste and health goals, creating a truly personalized healthy chocolate dessert.

The Perfect Post-Workout Fuel

For those focused on fitness, the protein content in this pudding is paramount. Protein is vital for muscle recovery, especially after intense exercise. By delivering a significant dose of protein (often 20-30 grams per serving, depending on your protein powder), coupled with sustained energy from fiber and healthy fats from the chia seeds, this high-protein pudding is the ultimate recovery snack. It’s far more enjoyable than a standard shake, providing hydration and essential nutrients in a satisfying, cool format.

The Health Benefits: Why You Should Try This Recipe Now

Beyond being incredibly tasty and easy to prepare, making Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding a regular part of your diet provides profound health advantages. This little jar is packed with essential macronutrients and micronutrients that support digestion, heart health, and sustained energy levels.

Protein Powerhouse for Satiety and Muscle Health

The addition of a quality protein powder transforms this simple chia pudding into a powerhouse meal. Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, meaning it keeps you feeling full for longer. This is crucial for weight management and preventing mid-morning snack attacks. If you often find yourself reaching for a treat before lunch, starting your day with this high-protein pudding will significantly help regulate your appetite. Furthermore, adequate protein intake is non-negotiable for anyone looking to maintain or build lean muscle mass. By choosing this Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding, you are actively supporting muscle repair and metabolic health.

The Magic of Chia Seeds: Fiber and Omega-3s

Chia seeds are tiny yet mighty. They are one of nature’s best sources of fiber, providing both soluble and insoluble types. This robust fiber content is fantastic for gut health, promoting regularity and helping stabilize blood sugar levels. When mixed with liquid, chia seeds create a mucilaginous gel, which contributes to the satisfying texture of the pudding and aids in a slow, steady release of energy.

Crucially, chia seeds are also an excellent plant-based source of Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and their role in supporting cardiovascular and cognitive health. Integrating these seeds into a delicious format like Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding makes getting these vital nutrients effortless.

Antioxidant-Rich Chocolate

When you use unsweetened cocoa or cacao powder, you are adding more than just flavor; you are boosting the antioxidant content. Cacao is rich in flavanols, which are linked to improved blood flow and reduced risk of heart disease. Unlike highly processed chocolate desserts, this healthy chocolate dessert allows you to reap the benefits of the raw ingredient while controlling the sugar content. The deep, rich chocolate flavor isn’t just comforting; it’s genuinely contributing to your overall well-being. Adding a small pinch of fine sea salt, as instructed in the recipe, not only enhances the chocolate flavor dramatically but also contributes essential electrolytes.

A Low-Glycemic Breakfast Option

Thanks to the high fiber content from the chia seeds and the choice of low-glycemic sweeteners (like maple syrup or agave), this Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding helps prevent the sharp spikes in blood sugar that often follow typical refined grain breakfasts (like sugary cereals or white toast). Stable blood sugar leads to stable energy throughout the morning, preventing that dreaded mid-morning crash. This makes the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding an ideal choice for sustained mental and physical performance. If you are interested in pairing this healthy breakfast with other simple, delicious recipes for lunch or dinner, check out our guide to making easy empanadas recipe.

Ingredients and Essential Utensils for the Perfect Batch

The beauty of the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need seven core ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. However, success hinges on using high-quality components and selecting the right tools.

Detailed Ingredients List (with Analysis)

Precision matters, especially when dealing with the gelling properties of chia seeds. Here is the exact list and a deeper look at why each component is crucial for achieving that perfect high protein pudding consistency.

• 1 cup (240 ml) Unsweetened Milk Alternative:
  • Role: Provides the necessary liquid for the chia seeds to gel and dictates the final creaminess.
  • Recommendation: Almond milk or oat milk tends to yield the smoothest, most neutral base. Coconut milk (from a carton, not a can) adds a lovely subtle creaminess and healthy fats. Dairy milk works fine if you prefer it. Always choose unsweetened varieties to control the overall sugar level of the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding.
• 1/4 cup (45 g) Chia Seeds (Black or white):
  • Role: The essential gelling agent and nutritional star (fiber and Omega-3s).
  • Recommendation: The color (black or white) makes no difference to the taste or nutritional profile, only the appearance. Ensure your seeds are fresh; old seeds may take longer to absorb liquid or result in a runnier pudding. This quantity (1:4 ratio of seeds to liquid) ensures a thick, spoonable texture.
• 1 scoop (30 g) Chocolate Protein Powder:
  • Role: Boosts the protein content and enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • Recommendation: The type of protein powder matters significantly for the texture. Whey protein often creates a very thick pudding. Casein yields a mousse-like, extremely thick result. Plant-based powders (like pea or brown rice protein) also work well but may require slightly more liquid depending on the brand’s absorbency. Ensure the flavor is one you genuinely enjoy, as it will be the dominant taste in your Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding.
• 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder or Cacao Powder:
  • Role: Intensifies the rich chocolate flavor and adds antioxidants.
  • Recommendation: Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best depth of flavor. Cacao powder is less processed and richer in nutrients but sometimes has a slightly more bitter edge, which the maple syrup will balance perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon Pure Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar:
  • Role: Sweetener.
  • Recommendation: Start with 1 tablespoon. Taste the mixture before refrigeration. If your protein powder is already heavily sweetened, you might need less, or none at all. For a low-carb or keto-friendly variation, substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of monk fruit or stevia erythritol blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract:
  • Role: Enhances all the other flavors, particularly the chocolate.
  • Recommendation: Do not skip this! Vanilla smooths out the bitterness of the cocoa and makes the final product taste more like a traditional dessert.
• 1 tiny pinch of Fine Sea Salt (optional, but highly recommended):
  • Role: Crucial for balancing sweetness and dramatically deepening the chocolate notes.
  • Recommendation: This small addition prevents the chocolate from tasting flat and ensures a professional, nuanced flavor.

Suggested Toppings (The Finishing Touch)

While the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is delicious on its own, toppings take it to the next level, adding texture and extra nutrition:

• Fresh Berries (Raspberries or sliced strawberries): Add brightness and Vitamin C.
• Shredded Coconut (toasted or untoasted): Adds healthy fat and chewiness.
• Chopped Nuts or Granola: Essential for crunch and textural contrast.
• Nut Butter (drizzled peanut or almond butter): Adds extra protein and creaminess.

The combination of these simple, robust ingredients ensures that your homemade healthy chocolate dessert is both nourishing and deeply satisfying. This recipe offers a foundation of wholesome goodness that can easily support various flavor variations, making it a truly versatile meal-prep option.

Necessary Kitchen Tools and Utensils

You don’t need fancy equipment to make this pudding, which is another reason it’s perfect for fast meal preparation. However, a few items ensure ease and success:

1. Medium-Sized Mixing Bowl: Large enough to whisk the dry ingredients without spilling.
2. Sturdy Whisk or Fork: Essential for completely dissolving the protein powder and mixing the chia seeds thoroughly. A flimsy fork won’t cut it; you need something that can break up clumps effectively, especially in Step 1 and Step 4.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for the seed-to-liquid ratio.
4. Airtight Containers or Jars: Glass mason jars (pint size or smaller) are ideal for refrigeration and individual serving portions. They look great, too!

By using the correct ratios and ensuring everything is properly mixed especially the protein powder you guarantee a silky, clump-free Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding. The attention to detail in the preparation phase is what separates a good chia pudding from a perfect one.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding

Follow these detailed steps carefully, paying special attention to the mixing and resting periods. These precise instructions ensure you achieve the ideal creamy, thick texture for your high protein pudding, avoiding the common pitfalls of runny or clumped results.

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients in a Medium-Sized Mixing Bowl

This initial step is absolutely vital for a smooth pudding. Place the chocolate protein powder, the unsweetened cocoa powder (or cacao powder), and the tiny pinch of fine sea salt into your mixing bowl. Use your sturdy whisk to combine these dry ingredients together thoroughly for at least 30 seconds. The goal here is to break up every single clump of protein powder and cocoa powder before any liquid is added. If you skip this, you risk pockets of dry powder that will not dissolve once wet, leading to an unpleasant texture.

Step 2: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients and Sweetener

Next, pour in the 1 cup (240 ml) of unsweetened milk alternative, the vanilla extract, and the 1 tablespoon of maple syrup (or your chosen sweetener). Using your sturdy whisk, mix everything together vigorously. You need to mix until the liquid is uniform in color, smooth, and the protein powder has completely dissolved into the milk base. This usually takes about 60 to 90 seconds of constant whisking. Ensure you scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to confirm no dry powder remains stuck. This perfectly prepared chocolate liquid base is the key foundation for your delicious Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding.

Step 3: Add the Chia Seeds and Begin the Setting Process

Once the chocolate liquid base is perfectly smooth, gently stir in the 1/4 cup of chia seeds. Do not dump them in and walk away! Stir continuously and moderately vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes. The goal is to ensure the seeds are completely and evenly suspended throughout the liquid. Chia seeds begin to absorb liquid and form their gel almost immediately, and if you stop stirring too soon, they will sink to the bottom and clump together, resulting in a dense, gluey bottom layer and runny top layer.

Step 4: The Initial Resting and Second Whisk The Pro Secret

Allow the pudding mixture to rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This short period allows the chia seeds to hydrate slightly and swell, giving them enough buoyancy that they are less likely to sink completely. After the 10-minute rest, take the whisk and stir the pudding mixture again very thoroughly for another full minute. This second whisking step is the secret to a professional-level, perfectly uniform Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding. It breaks up any large clumps of seeds that might have already formed at the bottom, guaranteeing a smooth and uniform final texture that is consistent from top to bottom. If you want to explore other satisfying dessert textures, you might enjoy learning how to make classic Spanish desserts like Crema Catalana.

Step 5: Refrigerate Until Thickened

Carefully pour the mixture into your chosen containers a large airtight container or individual serving cups/jars work best. Cover the containers securely. Place the covered container into the refrigerator. Allow the pudding to chill and thicken completely. For the best, most satisfying, gelatinous, and spoonable texture, it must be left to set for a minimum of 4 hours, though ideally, it should be left overnight (8 to 12 hours). The longer it sets, the firmer and creamier the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding becomes.

Step 6: Check Consistency and Serve

When you are ready to serve, remove the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding from the refrigerator. The consistency should be very thick and spoonable, resembling traditional pudding or mousse. You should be able to invert the spoon without the pudding dripping excessively. If the pudding seems too thick (which sometimes happens with certain protein powders, like casein), you may stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra milk until the desired creamy consistency is achieved. If the pudding is too runny, it simply needed more time to set, or perhaps your milk was slightly warmer than ideal; continue chilling it for a few more hours. Serve your magnificent Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding cold, topped with fresh berries, a sprinkle of granola, or a generous drizzle of nut butter. Enjoy this high protein pudding knowing you are fueling your body with the very best!

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting Your Chia Pudding

While this recipe for Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is relatively straightforward, a few expert tips and variations can ensure absolute success every time and keep your meal prep exciting.

Troubleshooting Consistency: Too Thick or Too Thin?

Consistency is the number one concern when making chia pudding. Here is how to fix common issues:

1. If the Pudding is Too Thick: This usually happens if you used a very absorbent protein powder (like casein) or accidentally used less liquid than required. Easily remedy this by adding milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring well after each addition, until the pudding reaches your preferred texture smooth and creamy, not gluey or dense.
2. If the Pudding is Too Runny: If it’s been 8 hours and your pudding is still soupy, there are a few potential culprits:
   • You used too much liquid initially.
   • Your chia seeds are old and have lost their gelling power.
   • The mixture was not stirred enough (the seeds clumped at the bottom).

   To save a runny batch, stir in 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of additional chia seeds per serving, mix well, and return it to the fridge for another 2 to 4 hours. Ensure you do the double-whisking technique next time!

Flavor Boosters and Variations for Your High Protein Pudding

Once you’ve mastered the basic Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding, the world of variation opens up. This base is robust enough to handle many additions, transforming it into exciting new healthy chocolate desserts.

• Mocha Pudding: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder or strongly brewed, cooled coffee when mixing the dry ingredients in Step 1. This enhances the chocolate flavor dramatically and provides a little caffeine kick.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: After the pudding has set (in Step 6), warm 1 tablespoon of peanut butter until slightly runny and swirl it through the top of the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding before serving.
• Mint Chocolate: Add 1/4 teaspoon of pure mint extract (or slightly less, as mint can be strong!) to the wet ingredients in Step 2 for a refreshing twist.
• Triple Chocolate Deluxe: Stir in a handful of mini sugar-free chocolate chips right before refrigerating, or melt dark chocolate and drizzle it on top when serving.
• Texture Boosters: For extra satiety and texture, consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of rolled oats (make sure they are gluten-free if necessary) along with the chia seeds. This creates a hybrid overnight oats/chia pudding experience.

For more inspiration on healthy meals and desserts, feel free to visit our external Pinterest dessert boards.

Adapting for Dietary Needs (Vegan, Keto, and Low-Sugar)

This recipe is highly adaptable:

• Vegan Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding: Simply ensure you use a plant-based milk alternative (like almond or soy) and a vegan protein powder (like pea, rice, or soy isolate). The maple syrup is already vegan-friendly.
• Keto/Low-Carb: Swap the maple syrup for a zero-calorie sweetener like erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit blend. Use full-fat coconut milk (from the carton) or heavy cream mixed with water as your liquid base for added healthy fats. Ensure your protein powder is low-carb/keto-friendly.
• Nut-Free: Use soy milk, oat milk, or rice milk as the liquid base, and avoid using nuts/nut butters as toppings.

By making these simple substitutions, everyone can enjoy this wonderfully versatile and high protein pudding, regardless of their specific nutritional framework. You can find many more versatile recipes on the Noelia Recipes Home Page to help structure your healthy eating plan.

Nutritional Insights: Fueling Your Body with High-Protein Goodness

One of the primary advantages of this Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is its exceptional nutritional profile. It is designed to be a complete meal, offering a fantastic balance of macronutrients that supports sustained energy and recovery.

Approximate Nutritional Values (Per Serving, based on 1 scoop whey/plant protein and almond milk)

Please note that exact values will vary widely based on the brand of protein powder and milk alternative used, but this provides a helpful estimate.

• Calories: 280–350 kcal
• Protein: 25–30 grams (High, thanks to the addition of protein powder)
• Fats: 8–12 grams (Primarily healthy unsaturated fats from chia seeds)
• Carbohydrates: 25–35 grams (Total carbs)
• Fiber: 10–15 grams (Excellent, covering a significant portion of daily requirements)
• Net Carbs: 10–20 grams (Highly dependent on sweetener and milk choice)

The Essential Role of Protein

The 25-30 grams of protein packed into this healthy chocolate dessert makes it suitable not just for breakfast, but for serious post-workout recovery. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar, minimizing energy crashes, and supports metabolic functions. Choosing a complete protein source (like whey or a balanced plant blend) ensures your body receives all essential amino acids needed for optimal repair.

Fiber for Digestive and Heart Health

The inclusion of 10+ grams of fiber per serving is phenomenal. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, aiding in nutrient absorption, and promoting detoxification. Furthermore, the soluble fiber found in chia seeds is known to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, contributing to improved heart health. This high protein pudding is truly a functional food.

Healthy Fats for Brain Function

While often feared, fats are essential, and the fats in the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding are the good kind. Chia seeds provide healthy polyunsaturated fats, including those crucial Omega-3s. These fats are vital for brain health, hormone regulation, and reducing systemic inflammation. When consumed in the morning, these fats contribute to feelings of sustained satiety throughout your busiest hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding

Conclusion: Your New Favorite High-Protein Meal Prep

The Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how effortlessly delicious and healthy eating can be. By combining the satiating power of high-quality protein, the incredible fiber content of chia seeds, and the decadent flavor of deep chocolate, you create a perfect grab-and-go meal that supports your wellness goals without compromising on taste. This high protein pudding is ready when you are, eliminating decision fatigue during busy mornings and providing reliable, sustained energy.

We’ve walked through the crucial steps from the essential double-whisking technique that ensures a flawless texture, to the simple customizations that make this recipe uniquely yours. Whether you are aiming for better muscle recovery, improved digestive health, or simply a healthier way to enjoy chocolate, this recipe delivers.

We highly encourage you to try this Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding this week and experience the difference that proper meal preparation can make. Don’t forget to experiment with the topping suggestions, adding crunch with granola, or extra brightness with fresh raspberries. Let us know how your batch turned out in the comments below, and share your favorite customizations! For more simple, effective, and delicious recipes to enhance your routine, explore the rest of our offerings at Noelia Recipes.

CHOCOLATE CHIA PROTEIN PUDDING

This high-protein, fiber-rich pudding is the perfect meal prep breakfast or satisfying snack. Made by simply mixing chia seeds, protein powder, and milk, it requires only 10 minutes of active preparation before chilling overnight.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Health Food

Calories: 160

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Pudding Base

• 1 cup Unsweetened Milk Alternative Almond milk, coconut milk, or dairy milk work best.
• 1/4 cup Chia Seeds Black or white.
• 1 scoop Chocolate Protein Powder Approximately 30g; whey, casein, or plant-based.
• 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Or Cacao Powder.
• 1 tablespoon Pure Maple Syrup Adjust to desired sweetness level, or substitute Agave Nectar.
• 1/2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1 tiny pinch Fine Sea Salt Optional, but enhances the chocolate flavor.

Suggested Toppings (Optional)

• Fresh Berries Raspberries or sliced strawberries.
• Shredded Coconut
• Chopped Nuts or Granola

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Sturdy Whisk
• Airtight Jars or Containers

Method

 

Instructions

1. Place the chocolate protein powder, the unsweetened cocoa powder, and the small pinch of sea salt into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial for breaking up any clumps in the protein powder and ensuring the chocolate flavor is evenly distributed before adding the liquid.
2. Pour in the 1 cup of unsweetened milk alternative, the vanilla extract, and the maple syrup into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Use a sturdy whisk to mix everything together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and the protein powder has completely dissolved. Ensure no pockets of dry powder remain stuck to the bottom or sides of the bowl.
3. Once the chocolate liquid base is smooth, gently stir in the 1/4 cup of chia seeds. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the seeds are evenly suspended throughout the liquid. Chia seeds begin to absorb liquid immediately and will sink quickly if you stop stirring too soon.
4. Allow the pudding mixture to rest at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. This short period allows the chia seeds to begin swelling. After the 10-minute rest, take the whisk and stir the pudding mixture again very thoroughly for another minute. This second whisking step is very important as it breaks up any large clumps of seeds that might have formed at the bottom, guaranteeing a smooth and uniform final texture.
5. Carefully pour the mixture into a jar, airtight container, or individual serving cups. Place the covered container into the refrigerator. Allow the pudding to chill and thicken completely for a minimum of 4 hours, though ideally, it should be left to set overnight (8 to 12 hours) for the best, most gelatinous texture.
6. When you are ready to serve, remove the pudding from the refrigerator. The consistency should be very thick and spoonable, similar to traditional pudding or mousse. If the pudding seems too thick, you may stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra milk until the desired consistency is achieved. Serve the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding cold, topped with fresh berries, a sprinkle of granola, or a dusting of extra cocoa powder.

Notes

For a vegan and dairy-free option, ensure you use a plant-based protein powder and a non-dairy milk alternative (like almond or oat milk). If you prefer a richer, darker chocolate flavor, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of instant espresso powder during the initial dry mixing stage.