Looking for a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while still being healthy? This protein-packed banana pudding with cottage cheese is the ultimate treat for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Perfectly sweet, rich in protein, and easily customizable to fit your dietary preferences, this simple yet delicious pudding will quickly become your go-to dessert. Whether you’re after a low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free option, this dessert has got you covered. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a versatile and fun way to enjoy a healthy snack.

Why Choose Protein-Packed Banana Pudding?

Banana pudding is a classic comfort food, but many recipes are loaded with sugars and artificial ingredients. By using cottage cheese as the base, you’re getting a higher protein content, making this a satisfying and filling treat. Cottage cheese offers a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the banana flavor, giving you that indulgent feel of traditional banana pudding, but in a healthier form.

With just a few simple substitutions, this recipe can easily be tailored to meet various dietary needs, from low-carb and gluten-free to dairy-free options. This flexibility makes it a great choice for anyone with dietary restrictions or those just looking to eat cleaner without compromising on taste.

Ingredients: The Key to a Healthy, Delicious Dessert

To make this protein-packed banana pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups cottage cheese: The star ingredient of this recipe. It provides creaminess and a solid dose of protein.
1/4 cup vanilla protein powder: Adds a protein boost and a touch of sweetness to the pudding.
2 1/2 tbsp banana pudding mix: I used Simply Delish for this recipe. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional pudding mixes, made with better ingredients.
1-2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar-free syrup: Sweetens the pudding naturally. You can adjust the sweetness based on your preference.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile of the pudding, adding depth and warmth.
1/2 banana (optional): Adds extra flavor and texture. If you’re following a low-carb diet, feel free to skip it.
1-2 tbsp milk (plant-based or regular): Used to thin the pudding if necessary, helping you achieve the right consistency.

Toppings: Adding the Finishing Touch

2 tbsp crushed wafers: For some crunch. If you have dietary restrictions, there are alternatives like gluten-free or low-carb wafers.
1/4 cup whipped topping: Adds extra creaminess. This can be omitted for a low-carb version.
Banana slices (optional): Use fresh banana slices for a burst of flavor and to make the pudding look even more appealing.

How To Make

Blend the Base Ingredients: Start by placing the cottage cheese into a high-speed blender. Blend it until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Cottage cheese can sometimes have a chunky texture, so blending it thoroughly ensures you get the ideal consistency for your pudding. Once smooth, add the rest of the ingredients: the vanilla protein powder, banana pudding mix, maple syrup or sugar-free syrup, vanilla extract, and the banana (if using). Blend again until everything is perfectly incorporated.
Adjust Consistency: If the pudding is too thick for your liking, gradually add milk—whether it’s regular or plant-based. Start with a tablespoon and increase the amount as necessary to achieve your preferred texture. The pudding should be smooth and easily spoonable, not too runny or too thick.
Assemble the Pudding Cups: Once the pudding is ready, it’s time to layer it in individual servings. Take two glasses or dessert cups and begin by placing crushed wafers at the bottom. Add a generous spoonful of the banana pudding mixture on top of the wafers, followed by a layer of whipped topping. Repeat the layers, finishing with another layer of whipped topping, a few more crushed wafers, and a slice of banana on top for garnish.
Refrigerate and Serve: To allow the flavors to develop, refrigerate your banana pudding for a few hours, or preferably overnight. The chill time enhances the pudding’s texture and flavor. Serve it cold for the best experience. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, but be sure to give it a quick stir before serving.

Customization Tips and Dietary Options

One of the best things about this protein-packed banana pudding is how easily it can be customized to suit different dietary needs:

Low-Carb Option: To make this pudding low-carb, simply omit the banana and use sugar-free syrup. You can also swap regular wafers for low-carb options, such as HighKey low-carb wafers.
Gluten-Free Version: If you’re avoiding gluten, substitute regular wafers with gluten-free options like Simple Mills Sweet Thins.
Dairy-Free Alternative: For a dairy-free version, swap the cottage cheese with your favorite dairy-free yogurt and use dairy-free milk and whipped topping. Again, be sure to use gluten-free wafers.

Important Notes: Tips for the Perfect Pudding

Blending Tip: For the smoothest pudding, use a high-speed blender. This ensures that the cottage cheese blends well and there are no lumps. A regular food processor may not achieve the same silky consistency.
Storage Tips: This pudding is best enjoyed chilled. Store it in an airtight container, and before serving leftovers, stir it to redistribute the ingredients for a smooth texture.

High Protein Banana Pudding

Quick and Easy Protein-Packed Banana Pudding Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups cottage cheese
1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
2 1/2 tbsp banana pudding mix (Simply Delish recommended)
1-2 tbsp maple or sugar-free syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 banana (optional for low-carb)
1-2 tbsp milk (plant-based or regular)

Topping:

2 tbsp crushed wafers
1/4 cup whipped topping (optional for low-carb)
Banana slices (optional)

Instructions:

Blend: Add cottage cheese to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Add protein powder, banana pudding mix, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and banana (if using) and blend again until smooth. Add milk to thin the mixture to your desired consistency.
Build Pudding Cups: Layer crushed wafers, whipped topping, and banana pudding in individual glasses. Repeat the layers and top with more whipped topping, wafers, and banana slices.
Serve: Refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. Serve chilled.

Notes:

Blending: Use a high-speed blender to ensure a smooth consistency.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving leftovers.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the banana, swap for low-carb wafers, and use sugar-free syrup.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free wafers.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace cottage cheese with dairy-free yogurt.

Nutrition (per serving):

Calories: 286kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Sodium: 1081mg
Potassium: 282mg
Sugar: 7g
Vitamin A: 100IU
Calcium: 237mg
Iron: 0.3mg