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 delights are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping! You can prepare the pudding itself up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe as usual, then allow it to cool before covering and refrigerating. To maintain the creamy texture and prevent browning of the bananas if using them as a topping, it’s best to leave those out until just before serving. When ready to enjoy, spoon your prepped Protein Banana Pudding into bowls and top with freshly sliced bananas, crushed graham crackers, or a dollop of whipped cream. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready with minimal effort!
Protein Banana Pudding Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delicious dessert to suit your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk with coconut milk for a rich, tropical twist that’s still creamy and satisfying. It’s a dreamy option for coconut lovers!
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Choco-Boost: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the pudding mixture for a chocolate banana pudding. The rich chocolate and sweet banana combo is simply divine.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate 1/4 cup of almond or peanut butter into the pudding mix for an extra nutty flavor and added creaminess. Your taste buds will definitely thank you!
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Spiced Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be whisked in for a cozy depth of flavor. This adds warmth to every single spoonful!
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Lower Calorie: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of erythritol to reduce calories without sacrificing sweetness. Enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s still mouthwatering!
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Banana Variant: Blend in some pureed strawberries or mango to the banana mash for a fruity explosion that’s both vibrant and delicious. A colorful way to liven up your pudding!
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Crunchy Topping: Swap crushed graham crackers for chopped nuts or granola to add a delightful crunch and texture contrast. It makes each bite even more enjoyable!
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Protein Power: Use chocolate or strawberry-flavored protein powder instead of vanilla for additional flavor and a personalized twist. It’s a fun way to change things up while still keeping it nutritious.
How to Store and Freeze Protein Banana Pudding
Fridge: Store the pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy anytime you crave a creamy treat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual servings in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: If you prefer warm pudding, gently reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, stirring well. Avoid overheating to maintain its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions: Before serving, consider topping the Protein Banana Pudding with fresh bananas or whipped cream for extra flavor and presentation!
What to Serve with Protein Banana Pudding?
Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience by pairing this deliciously creamy pudding with the perfect complements.
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Crispy Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, perfectly offsetting the smooth texture of the pudding.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries bring a burst of freshness and vibrant color that brightens each spoonful, creating a colorful dessert plate.
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Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso enhances the warm vanilla notes, making it the ideal pairing for your sweet indulgence.
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Nut Butter Drizzle: A swirl of almond or peanut butter provides a protein-packed twist, adding a luscious creaminess while elevating the flavor profile.
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Dark Chocolate Shavings: A garnish of dark chocolate shavings introduces a sophisticated richness and balances the sweetness of your pudding with deep cocoa notes.
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Creamy Coconut Whipped Topping: A dollop of coconut whipped cream elevates the dessert with a tropical flair and adds a creamy, dreamy finish to every bite.
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Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top introduces warm, aromatic spice that complements the banana’s sweetness and adds seasonal charm.
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Chilled Herbal Tea: Pairing your pudding with a refreshing herbal tea, like mint or chamomile, offers a calming finish that cleanses the palate beautifully.
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 the pudding?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are very ripe—think yellow with brown spots for the sweetest flavor and creamiest texture. If they are still green or too firm, they won’t mash well and could lead to a less enjoyable pudding.
How should I store my Protein Banana Pudding?
To keep your pudding fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation from forming.
Can I freeze Protein Banana Pudding?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze your pudding in individual, airtight containers for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply transfer the container to the fridge the night before you plan to enjoy it. Give it a good stir after thawing, as the texture may change slightly.
What should I do if my pudding is too thick?
If you find your Protein Banana Pudding is too thick, simply whisk in a splash of almond milk until you achieve your desired consistency. Heat it gently in a saucepan while stirring to ensure that everything is well mixed.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This Protein Banana Pudding is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free using almond milk. If you have a nut allergy, you can substitute with oat milk or another non-nut-based milk. Always check the labels on your protein powder and erythritol to ensure they meet your dietary needs and preferences.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the pudding?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative by adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate version or peanut butter for a nutty twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you add anything sweet beyond the bananas!
Protein Banana Pudding
Ingredients
- 3 medium ripe bananas mashed
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup erythritol or any natural sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 medium sliced bananas
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
Method
- Whisk together the almond milk, mashed bananas, vanilla protein powder, cornstarch, erythritol, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and starts to bubble, about 5–7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 2–3 minutes while stirring.
- Remove from heat and pour the pudding into a bowl or individual serving cups.
- Cool slightly at room temperature for a few minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve and enjoy your pudding with optional toppings like sliced bananas, crushed graham crackers, or whipped cream.
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