And now for something different: Protein Pudding

So, this week was supposed to be another festive, holiday inspired recipe. Here at Norton, we were pouring through cookbooks, browsing the internet, even attempting a few different healthy ideas motivated by holiday flavors. 

But honestly... we just weren't feeling it. We are so inundated by peppermint this + Christmas spiced whatever-- that we just wanted something good to eat. Something normal, and delicious and that we didn't have to feel guilty about indulging in. So, after some trial and error, we came up with this creamy treat packed with protein and fiber to satisfy your sweet tooth and fill you up. It's a great breakfast, snack, or dessert. Perfect for curbing those impure holiday thoughts and keeping your fitness plan in check. 

And if you really need those holiday flavors...you can always stir in some cinnamon or peppermint oil. 

High Protein Pudding + Pumpkin

(ok, I KNOW there's pumpkin. And you're all like, WHY MORE PUMPKIN? It isn't Halloween or Thanksgiving anymore! The answer is, PUMPKIN IS AMAZING. It is so unbelievably good for you, and you can't taste it in this recipe. So just stop grumbling and eat this pudding in it's chocolatey wonder.)

Ingredients:

• 1 15-ounce can unsweetened pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• ¼ cup unsweetened natural CACAO. Not cocoa! 
• ½ cup all-natural, sweetened chocolate protein powder (vegan or whey)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (OR MORE)
• ¾ cup almond milk or lowfat dairy milk
• Optional:a few drops of peppermint oil
• Optional: additional natural sweetener to taste ( stevia, honey, maple syrup---hopefully not all 3)

Method:

1. In a blender or food processor, process the pumpkin, cacao powder, protein powder, vanilla and cinnamon until smooth, pausing once or twice to scrape down the sides of the processor bowl or blender pitcher with a spatula.
2. Add half of the milk to the blender or processor; process until smooth, then scrape down sides, Add remaining milk; process until smooth. Taste  and add additional sweetener if so desired.
3. Scrape into a big container or into individual jars. Cover and chill at least 2 hours for it to thicken and flavors to set.

Enjoy and eat sweet for the holidays!