If you love creamy desserts but want to keep things light and protein-packed, this High Protein Banana Cream Pudding is your new favorite.
Made with cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and ripe bananas, it delivers classic pudding flavor — minus the sugar crash — and each serving packs around 20–25g of protein.
It’s smooth, rich, and full of that nostalgic banana flavor. Enjoy it as a post-workout snack, healthy dessert, or make-ahead breakfast. Top it with banana slices, crushed graham crackers, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. 🍌✨
💪 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High protein — 20–25g per serving
- Quick & no-cook — ready in minutes
- Naturally sweet from ripe bananas
- Low-sugar, gluten-free, and meal-prep friendly
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snack time
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bananas (ripe) | 1½ medium (¾ cup mashed) | Natural sweetness, potassium |
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup | Creaminess, probiotics, protein |
| Vanilla protein powder | 1 scoop | Boosts protein, dessert-like flavor |
| Milk (any kind) | ½ cup | Smooth consistency |
| Vanilla extract | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Honey or maple syrup (optional) | 1 tsp | Extra natural sweetness |
Equipment: Blender or food processor, measuring cups, mixing bowl, and mason jars or containers for storage.
🥣 Step-by-Step Directions
- Blend it smooth:
Add banana, Greek yogurt, protein powder, milk, and vanilla extract to a blender. Blend 30–45 seconds until silky. - Adjust the texture:
- Too thick? Add a splash of milk.
- Too thin? Add a little extra yogurt or half scoop protein powder.
- Taste test:
Depending on how ripe your bananas are, you may not need honey or syrup at all. - Chill:
Pour into jars or bowls, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (1 hour gives best texture). - Serve & enjoy:
Stir before serving and top with your favorite garnishes — banana slices, nuts, crushed graham crackers, or cacao nibs.
⚖️ Dietary Adjustments
| Diet Type | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Naturally gluten-free — just check your protein powder |
| Dairy-Free | Use coconut/almond yogurt + plant-based milk |
| Vegan | Plant protein powder + maple syrup instead of honey |
| Low-Sugar | Skip sweetener or use stevia/monk fruit |
| Nut-Free | Use oat milk instead of almond and avoid nut toppings |
🍨 Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
- Smoothie Base: Blend with ice for a protein smoothie.
- Breakfast Parfait: Layer with granola and berries.
- Overnight Oats Mix-In: Stir into oats for extra creaminess.
- Frozen Pops: Freeze in molds for banana pudding popsicles.
- Pancake Topping: Spoon over pancakes instead of syrup!
Stored in airtight jars, it stays fresh 4–5 days in the fridge.
🧠 Expert Tips for Perfect Texture
✅ Use ripe, spotty bananas for natural sweetness.
✅ Chill before serving to thicken and develop flavor.
✅ Adjust milk based on protein powder type — some thicken more.
✅ Add-ins like chia seeds, cocoa, or nut butter boost flavor.
✅ For a full meal, top with sliced almonds or berries.
💛 Flavor Focus
This pudding strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and clean nutrition.
Banana gives it a nostalgic flavor, while Greek yogurt adds tang and protein.
A hint of vanilla makes it taste like dessert — but it’s light enough for breakfast.
Want it richer? Add a spoonful of peanut butter.
Want it lighter? Top with fresh strawberries or drizzle of honey.
🥄 Is Chia Pudding Healthy? Why This Is a Smart Swap
Even without chia seeds, this pudding brings similar benefits:
- High Protein (20–25g) for muscle repair
- Balanced Carbs + Protein for steady energy
- Potassium-rich bananas for heart health
- Probiotic yogurt for gut balance
Dessert that fuels your fitness goals — not fights them.
💰 Budget-Friendly Tips
Eating healthy doesn’t have to cost more:
- Use regular yogurt instead of Greek + extra protein powder
- Buy overripe bananas — they’re cheaper & sweeter
- Purchase protein powder in bulk to save money
- Skip fancy toppings — use oats or shredded coconut instead
- Try DIY oat milk (just oats + water!)
These swaps can cut cost per serving by half without losing nutrition or taste.
🧾 Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 12g |
Highlights:
✅ Low calorie & filling
✅ Ideal for post-workout recovery
✅ Sustained energy from balanced macros
✅ Probiotics for digestion
❓ FAQs
Q: My pudding turned out too thick!
A: Add a splash more milk and stir until smooth.
Q: It’s too thin!
A: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or half scoop of protein powder. Chill longer — it thickens naturally.
Q: Can I meal-prep it?
A: Absolutely! Store individual portions in sealed jars for up to 5 days.
💌 Final Thoughts
This High Protein Banana Cream Pudding proves healthy eating doesn’t mean boring food.
It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and supports your fitness goals — all in one spoonful.
Perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or dessert — and ready in minutes!
