When you crave a sweet treat but don’t want the sugar crash, this high-protein banana pudding is the perfect solution. Packed with protein from Greek yogurt and protein powder, naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, and layered with creamy textures, this pudding is not just a dessert—it’s also a nutritious snack or even a light breakfast.
Traditional banana pudding is often made with custard, cookies, and heavy cream, which can be high in sugar and calories. This version lightens things up while keeping all the flavor you love. Best of all, it’s no-bake, easy to make, and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (whey, plant-based, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for extra thickness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Toppings: sliced bananas, crushed graham crackers, or sugar-free whipped topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. A few small chunks are fine for extra texture. - Mix Wet Ingredients
Add Greek yogurt, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until creamy. - Add Protein Powder
Whisk in the protein powder until it is fully dissolved and no lumps remain. - Optional – Thicken with Chia Seeds
Stir in chia seeds if you prefer a thicker, pudding-like consistency. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the seeds can expand. - Chill the Pudding
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. This allows the flavors to blend and the pudding to firm up. - Serve with Toppings
When ready to serve, spoon into cups or bowls and top with banana slices, crushed graham crackers, or a dollop of sugar-free whipped topping.
Serving Ideas
- Serve in small glass jars for a cute make-ahead dessert.
- Layer with crushed graham crackers or sugar-free vanilla wafers for a banana pudding parfait.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and cocoa powder for a flavor twist.
- Add peanut butter drizzle for extra protein and richness.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Best enjoyed fresh since bananas may brown slightly over time.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the yogurt base.
Variations
- Chocolate Banana Pudding – Add 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
- Peanut Butter Banana Pudding – Stir in 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter for a rich and nutty flavor.
- Vegan Version – Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based protein powder.
- Crunchy Texture – Add granola or chopped nuts on top for a satisfying crunch.
Tips & Tricks
- Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- If you like extra sweetness, add a touch of honey, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
- To make it thicker, refrigerate overnight or add more chia seeds.
- Blend ingredients in a food processor for a super smooth, mousse-like texture.
Notes
- This pudding is naturally gluten-free if you skip the graham cracker topping.
- It works well as a post-workout snack thanks to the protein and carbs combo.
- You can double the recipe for meal prep and portion into containers for the week.
High-Protein Banana Pudding
Description
A creamy, healthy, and protein-packed banana pudding made with Greek yogurt, protein powder, and ripe bananas. Perfect as a no-bake dessert, snack, or post-workout treat.
Duration
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Toppings: banana slices, graham crackers, or sugar-free whipped topping
Instructions
- Mash bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- Stir in yogurt, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Add protein powder and mix until lump-free.
- Stir in chia seeds (optional) and let sit 5 minutes.
- Chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours.
- Serve with toppings of choice.
