High-Protein Banana Pudding
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2–3 hours
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas (sliced)
- 2 cups milk (use skim, almond, or oat milk)
- 1 scoop (about 25–30g) vanilla protein powder
- 1 package (about 40g) instant vanilla pudding mix (sugar-free works well)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla, high-protein)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers or high-protein cookies
- ½ cup whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Prepare the pudding base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and protein powder until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps—this step is key for a creamy texture.
2. Add pudding mix
Sprinkle in the instant pudding mix and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
3. Mix in yogurt and flavor
Add Greek yogurt and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined. Taste and add honey or maple syrup if you want it sweeter.
4. Layer the pudding
In serving glasses or a dish:
- Add a layer of pudding
- Add a layer of banana slices
- Add a layer of crushed wafers
Repeat layers until everything is used, finishing with pudding on top.
5. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours. This helps the flavors blend and the texture set perfectly.
6. Serve
Top with whipped cream and extra banana slices if desired. Serve chilled.
Nutritional Benefits
- High Protein: Thanks to Greek yogurt and protein powder, each serving can have 15–25g protein depending on your ingredients.
- Natural Energy: Bananas provide natural sugars and potassium.
- Lower Sugar Option: Using sugar-free pudding mix keeps it lighter.
Variations
- Chocolate Banana: Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder or use chocolate protein powder.
- Peanut Butter Boost: Swirl in 2 tablespoons peanut butter for extra protein and flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt and milk.
- Low-Carb: Skip wafers or replace with crushed nuts.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bananas may brown slightly, so adding them fresh on top before serving is a good idea.
Serving Ideas
- Serve in mason jars for a stylish look
- Great for meal prep desserts
- Perfect as a healthy snack or post-workout meal
Pro Tips
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness
- Chill longer for thicker pudding
- Adjust protein powder to taste—some brands are sweeter than others
