RECIPE: Chocolate Protein Pudding
This creamy chocolate treat is made with nourishing ingredients like cacao, banana, avocado, and almond butter. Image: Kristin Teig
This recipe comes to us from the pages of Paige Lindrenβs debut cookbook, Sync & Savor: Cycle-Based Nutrition for Hormone Health and Balance.
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When those chocolate cravings strike during my period, this is one of my favorite desserts to make! As progesterone levels drop in the late luteal phase, your body often craves quick energy and comfort foods like chocolate. This happens because lower progesterone can decrease serotonin, the βfeel-goodβ hormone, prompting your body to reach for serotonin-boosting foods like chocolate.
The cacao powder here is rich in magnesium, which supports serotonin production, helping lift your mood and soothe tension. Bananas bring in potassium to reduce bloating and water retention, while the avocado provides healthy fats and fiber to keep your blood sugar stable and prevent energy crashes. Almond butter adds a subtle nuttiness and a boost of healthy fats, and the chocolate protein powder makes it a satisfying snack that tackles both cravings and nutritional needs!
Chocolate Protein Pudding
IngredientsΒ Β
- 1 ripe avocado halved, pitted, and sliced
- 1 banana sliced
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup optional
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
- Cacao nibs or sliced almonds for topping (optional)
InstructionsΒ
- Scoop the avocado into a blender or food processor, then add the banana, cacao powder, almond butter, honey (if using), protein powder, vanilla, and almond milk. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the container as needed.
- Transfer the pudding to individual serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to set.
- Before serving, top the puddings with the cacao nibs or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
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Paige Lindgren
Paige Lindgren is a Los Angelesβbased Certified Hormone Specialist, Holistic Nutritionist, and Pilates instructor whose work centers on helping women sync with their biology rather than fight it. She teaches how hormones influence energy, mood, metabolism, and digestion and shows how simple, intentional lifestyle choices can make a profound difference.