Looking for a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy goals? This protein-packed banana pudding made with creamy cottage cheese is the perfect guilt-free indulgence. With easy swaps, you can make it low-carb, gluten-free, or even dairy-free!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding
If you’re a fan of my Healthy Banana Split Dilly Bars, you already know I’m all about transforming classic desserts into better-for-you options. This Protein Banana Pudding brings all the nostalgic flavor of traditional banana pudding only lighter, creamier, and loaded with protein.
What’s the secret? A smooth blend of cottage cheese, vanilla protein powder, banana pudding mix, syrup, and vanilla extract. Customize it by adding real banana—or leave it out for fewer carbs. Layered with crushed wafers, fluffy whipped topping, and a slice of banana, it’s a treat you can feel great about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cottage cheese (2% or full-fat)
- Vanilla protein powder
- Banana pudding mix (I love Keto Simply Delish)
- Maple syrup or sugar-free syrup (Lakanto is great for low-carb)
- Vanilla extract
- Banana (optional – or use banana extract for flavor without the carbs)
- Milk of choice (dairy, almond, coconut, or cream)
- Wafers (High Key for low-carb or Simple Mills for gluten-free)
- Whipped topping
How to Make It
1. Blend:
Start by blending the cottage cheese in a high-speed blender until smooth. Add the rest of the pudding ingredients and blend again until creamy. Adjust the texture with milk, adding a little at a time.
2. Layer:
In two serving glasses, start with a layer of crushed wafers, followed by a spoonful of whipped topping and the banana pudding mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with whipped topping, crushed wafers, and a banana slice on top.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a high-speed blender for a silky-smooth texture.
- Blend in stages – start with cottage cheese and liquids first.
- Adjust consistency with milk until it’s just how you like it.
Diet-Friendly Modifications
- Low-Carb: Omit the banana, use High Key wafers, and sugar-free syrup.
- Gluten-Free: Swap in Simple Mills Sweet Thins.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt, plant-based milk, and non-dairy whipped topping.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Stir before serving to remix the ingredients and enjoy it chilled.
FAQs
Q: How do I get the pudding super smooth?
A: Use a high-speed blender and blend ingredients in stages.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes! Just use the same amount. You may not need additional milk.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Definitely. Swap in dairy-free yogurt, milk, and whipped topping.
Q: How do I make this low-carb?
A: Skip the banana, use sugar-free syrup, and go for low-carb wafers like High Key.
Perfect High Protein Banana Pudding
This protein-packed banana pudding is rich, creamy, and satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt! Made with cottage cheese and protein powder, it’s an easy, healthy dessert you’ll love.
Servings: 2
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
Pudding Base
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- ¼ cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 ½ tbsp banana pudding mix (Simply Delish recommended)
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar-free syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ banana (optional, remove for low-carb)
- 1-2 tbsp milk (regular or plant-based, as needed)
Toppings
- 2 tbsp crushed wafers (see dietary swaps below)
- ¼ cup whipped topping (remove for low-carb)
- Banana slices (optional)
Instructions
- Blend the cottage cheese in a high-speed blender until completely smooth. Add protein powder, banana pudding mix, syrup, vanilla extract, and banana (if using), then blend again until silky. If the mixture is too thick, add milk gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Crush the wafers and set them aside.
- In two glasses, add a layer of crushed wafers, then spoon in a layer of pudding. Add a layer of whipped topping, then repeat the layers until the glasses are full.
- Top with additional crushed wafers and banana slices if desired.
- Chill before serving for the best flavor. Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Stir before serving to redistribute ingredients for the best texture.
