There’s something incredibly comforting about the texture of creamy pudding, especially when it’s packed with the goodness of ripe bananas and the bonus boost of protein. One afternoon, looking for a satisfying dessert that wouldn’t derail my healthy eating goals, I stumbled upon this delightful Protein Banana Pudding.
With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, you’ll create a velvety treat that’s not only delicious but also a fantastic addition to your meal prep. The sweetness from the bananas, paired with the subtle hint of vanilla, makes each spoonful feel indulgent without the guilt.
Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert to impress your friends, this pudding checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s versatile—you can layer it with crushed graham crackers or add a dollop of whipped cream to elevate your experience. Ready to transform your sweet cravings into a nutritious delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You'll Love This Protein Banana Pudding
- This Protein Banana Pudding is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and only 30 minutes of your time.
- The rich flavor of ripe bananas combined with vanilla makes each bite feel indulgent while still being healthy and satisfying.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with toppings like whipped cream or crushed graham crackers, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Not only does it taste amazing, but it also packs a protein punch, making it an ideal post-workout treat that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Protein Banana Pudding Ingredients
Unlock the secret to a creamy, satisfying dessert!
For the Pudding
• Ripe bananas – ripe bananas add natural sweetness and a creamy texture to your pudding.
• Unsweetened almond milk – this is a lower-calorie alternative to dairy that maintains a smooth consistency.
• Vanilla protein powder – adds a protein boost to your pudding, making it perfect for post-workout recovery.
• Cornstarch – serves as a thickening agent, giving the pudding its delightful creaminess.
• Erythritol – a natural sweetener that keeps your pudding guilt-free without sugar.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet note that perfectly complements the bananas.
• Salt – a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Optional Toppings
• Sliced bananas – fresh banana slices on top bring extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• Crushed graham crackers – add a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess of the pudding.
• Whipped cream – a dollop on top creates a rich, indulgent finish to your Protein Banana Pudding.
How to Make Protein Banana Pudding
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Whisk together the almond milk, mashed bananas, vanilla protein powder, cornstarch, erythritol, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium saucepan. Mix until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency—this will be the base of your tasty pudding!
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Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. You want to cook it until it thickens and starts to bubble, which should take about 5–7 minutes. This is when the magic happens for your protein banana pudding!
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Reduce the heat to low once thickened. Let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes while continuing to stir. This ensures that everything is well-blended and perfectly creamy.
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Remove from heat and carefully pour the pudding into a bowl or individual serving cups. The warmth from the pudding will help set its luscious texture—what a treat!
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Cool slightly at room temperature for a few minutes. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to set fully. Patience is key here for the best results!
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Serve and enjoy your pudding! Before serving, top it with whatever your heart desires: sliced bananas, crushed graham crackers, or a light drizzle of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence.
Optional: Sprinkle with a dusting of cinnamon for an added flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Protein Banana Pudding cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights. Simply follow the recipe until step 4, then pour the pudding into bowls or individual serving cups, cover them with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate. This will maintain the pudding’s creamy texture and flavors wonderfully. When it’s time to serve, simply pull out your delicious Protein Banana Pudding from the fridge, top with your favorite additions like sliced bananas or crushed graham crackers, and enjoy a guilt-free dessert that tastes just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Protein Banana Pudding?
Create a delightful dining experience with complementary treats that enhance the creamy goodness of your pudding.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pudding. A sprinkle of mixed berries brings a burst of color and flavor that pairs beautifully.
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Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter introduces a rich, nutty flavor that harmonizes with the bananas. This combination not only provides a gourmet touch but also elevates the protein content.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free option offers a luscious, tropical flavor that lifts the whole dessert. The airy texture complements the pudding, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Granola Crunch: Adding a handful of granola introduces delightful crunch and makes for a fun texture contrast. The oats and nuts create an irresistible bite that balances the creaminess of the pudding.
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Enjoy with Coffee: A warm cup of coffee can cut through the richness of the dessert and enhance the flavors, creating an inviting pairing that many enjoy during an afternoon break.
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Chocolate Chips: For a little indulgence, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips on top. Their bittersweet flavor elevates the dessert experience, turning your pudding into a festive treat everyone will love!
Protein Banana Pudding Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your Protein Banana Pudding even more exciting!
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Chocolate Twist: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas. Chocolate and banana are a classic combo, and this variation is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings!
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Nut Butter Bliss: Swirl in 1/4 cup of your favorite nut butter, like almond or peanut, for added creaminess and protein. This will not only boost the flavor but also give your pudding a delightful richness.
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Fruit Medley: Mix in 1/2 cup of diced strawberries or blueberries for a burst of freshness and color. Adding berries not only elevates the taste but also brings in a lovely tang that complements the sweet bananas.
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Coconut Delight: Substitute almond milk with coconut milk and sprinkle shredded coconut on top. The tropical flavor of coconut will transport your taste buds and add an exotic twist to your pudding.
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Spiced Pudding: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor profile. This subtle spice can make your pudding feel like a cozy dessert, perfect for chilly days.
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Vegan Option: Swap the vanilla protein powder with a plant-based protein powder and ensure the erythritol is vegan-friendly, making it completely plant-based. This variation allows everyone to enjoy a guilt-free treat!
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Extra Creamy: Add 1/2 cup of silken tofu to the mixture for an ultra-creamy texture and an extra protein boost. This not only enhances the pudding’s richness but also makes it wonderfully smooth.
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Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, mix in finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The warmth of spice adds a surprising and delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Enjoy customizing your Protein Banana Pudding to match your mood or dietary preferences! Each variation opens up a world of flavors that are as fun to experiment with as they are to eat.
How to Store and Freeze Protein Banana Pudding
Fridge: Keep your Protein Banana Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining that creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the pudding in individual portions for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently, to restore its smooth consistency.
Serving: Top with fresh sliced bananas or whipped cream just before serving for a refreshing touch!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Protein Banana Pudding, ensure your bananas are very ripe to achieve the best sweetness and creaminess.
- To avoid lumps in your pudding, whisk the dry ingredients with the almond milk thoroughly before heating.
- Stir constantly as you cook the mixture to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning.
- For perfect texture, allow the pudding to chill for at least one hour before serving, as this will help it set just right.
Protein Banana Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting bananas for your Protein Banana Pudding, look for ones that are fully ripe with a slight softness, as this enhances the natural sweetness and flavor. Bananas with a few brown spots on the skin are perfect; just avoid those that are overly mushy or have dark spots all over, as they may affect the pudding’s texture.
How should I store leftover Protein Banana Pudding?
Very! To keep your Protein Banana Pudding fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days. If you notice any separation, simply give it a good stir before serving to reintroduce those creamy ingredients.
Can I freeze Protein Banana Pudding?
Absolutely! If you want to enjoy it later, freeze your pudding in individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Label them with the date, and you can enjoy this tasty treat for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker option, immerse the container in a bowl of cold water until fully thawed. Stir well before serving.
What if my pudding didn’t thicken properly?
Don’t worry! If your Protein Banana Pudding didn’t thicken, it might be due to not cooking it long enough or not whisking thoroughly while heating. To troubleshoot, return the pudding to the stove over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reached the desired thickness. If it’s still too runny, dissolve an additional tablespoon of cornstarch in a bit of almond milk and stir it into your mixture, allowing it to cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This Protein Banana Pudding is naturally dairy-free and suitable for many dietary preferences. However, if you have allergies or specific dietary needs, make sure to check the labels on the protein powder and erythritol for any potential allergens. Always read the ingredients to ensure it aligns with your dietary requirements. If you are making this for your pets, keep in mind that bananas are safe in small amounts, but it’s best to avoid adding any human sweeteners.
Protein Banana Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas mashed
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons erythritol low-calorie sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 banana sliced
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1 cup whipped cream
Method
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the almond milk, mashed bananas, vanilla protein powder, cornstarch, erythritol, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly for about 5–7 minutes until it thickens and begins to bubble slightly.
- Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the pudding into a bowl or individual serving cups. Let it cool at room temperature for a few minutes before covering.
- Place the covered pudding in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow it to set and chill.
- Before serving, feel free to top your Protein Banana Pudding with sliced bananas, crushed graham crackers, or whipped cream.
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