Looking for a guilt-free treat? Try this easy, protein-rich banana pudding featuring cottage cheese!
Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThis dessert is perfect for satisfying sweet-tooth cravings and can easily be tailored to be low-carb and gluten-free.
What Makes This Recipe Great?
If you enjoyed my Healthy Banana Split Dilly Bars, you’ll love this healthier take on Protein Banana Pudding! This recipe uses cottage cheese blended with maple or sugar-free syrup, protein powder, banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and an optional banana for added flavor. Top it with whipped cream, crushed vanilla wafers, and banana slices for a delicious finish!
As a Southern girl, banana pudding is a tradition. This version maintains the classic flavor with a healthier twist!
Why I Love This Recipe
This banana pudding is a deliciously simple and healthy treat. The combination of cottage cheese and bananas gives it a rich, creamy texture, while packing in protein. It’s a perfect guilt-free dessert or snack that satisfies my sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. Plus, it’s quick to make, which makes it ideal for busy days!
Ingredients
Cottage Cheese: 2% low-fat or full-fat for richer flavor.
Banana Pudding Mix: I used Keto Simply Delish for healthier ingredients.
Maple or Sugar-Free Syrup: Maple syrup works great unless you’re on a low-carb diet.
Banana (optional): Add half a banana for extra flavor unless you’re low-carb. For more banana flavor, use 1/4 tsp banana extract.
Milk: Cream, coconut, or almond milk.
Wafers: For low-carb, use High Key Wafers. For gluten-free, substitute with Simple Mills Sweet Thins graham crackers.
Vanilla Extract, Vanilla Protein Powder, Whipped Topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Blend: Start by adding cottage cheese to a powerful blender and blend until creamy. Next, incorporate the rest of the ingredients and blend once more until fully smooth.
Tip: If the mixture is too thick, gradually add milk (1 tablespoon at a time) until the desired consistency is achieved.
Build Pudding Cups: Layer crushed wafers at the bottom of two glasses, followed by whipped topping and banana pudding. Continue layering with whipped topping, crushed wafers, and banana slices until the glass is full.
Expert Tips
Blending: Use a high-speed blender to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. A food processor may not produce the same creamy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- For an extra creamy texture, make sure to blend the cottage cheese well before adding other ingredients.
- You can add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter pudding, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup into the mix.
- Top with a few banana slices or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra crunch.
Dietary Substitutions
Low-Carb Option: Skip the banana, use High Key low-carb wafers, and sugar-free syrup.
Gluten-Free Option: Use Simple Mills Sweet Thins instead of regular wafers.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cottage cheese with dairy-free yogurt, and use dairy-free whipped topping and milk.
Storage
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
Serving: Serve chilled and stir leftovers before serving.
Notes
- If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try substituting the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt.
- This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, making it a great meal prep option.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by experimenting with different sweeteners.
FAQs
1. How can I make the pudding extra smooth?
Blend in stages, starting with cottage cheese and liquids, followed by powders and extracts. Use a high-speed blender.
2. Is it possible to replace cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?
Yes, use a 1:1 ratio but add milk to adjust the thickness if needed.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the cottage cheese with dairy-free yogurt and use dairy-free versions of whipped topping and milk.
4. How do I make it low-carb?
Skip the banana, use High Key low-carb wafers, and sugar-free syrup
5. Is banana pudding better warm or cold?
Serve it cold for the best flavor and texture.
6. What is the ideal ripeness for bananas in pudding?
Use ripe, yellow bananas with small brown specks for the best flavor and sweetness.
Deliciously Creamy Protein-Packed Banana Pudding
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy2
servings10
minutes10
minutes290
kcalLooking for a guilt-free treat? Try this easy, protein-rich banana pudding featuring cottage cheese!
Ingredients
2 cups cottage cheese
1-2 tbsp maple or sugar-free syrup
1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
2 1/2 tbsp banana pudding mix
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk
1/2 banana optional (remove for low carb)
TOPPING
1/4 cup whipped topping
2 tbsp crushed wafers
banana slices or peanuts
Directions
- Blend: Start by adding cottage cheese to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Next, mix in the remaining pudding ingredients and blend again until fully combined.
If the mixture is too thick, gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. - Assemble the Pudding Cups: Begin by layering crushed wafers at the bottom of two glasses. Add a spoonful of whipped topping, followed by a generous portion of banana pudding. Repeat the layers, finishing with whipped topping, more crushed wafers, and a slice of banana on top.
- Serving: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled. For even more flavor, let it sit overnight to allow the tastes to blend. Store in an airtight container or cover with a lid and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Enjoy!
