Description

This High-Protein Banana Pudding is a creamy, wholesome twist on the classic dessert, packed with protein from vanilla protein powder, yogurt, and whipped cream. Layers of ripe bananas and crunchy Nilla Wafers create a delightful texture contrast, making it a nutritious and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein Pudding Base

1/2 c. vanilla protein powder (25 g protein)
1 (3.4-oz.) pkg. vanilla instant Jell-O pudding
1 1/2 c. cold whole or plant-based milk

Whipped Cream & Yogurt Mixture

1 1/4 c. heavy cream
1/3 c. high-protein sweetened vanilla yogurt (such as Siggi’s)

Additional Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
27 Nilla Wafers, lightly crumbled, plus 4 whole Wafers for topping

Instructions

Prepare Protein Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla protein powder and vanilla instant Jell-O pudding mix. While continuously whisking, slowly pour in the cold milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, about 1 minute. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 40 minutes or up to overnight. The consistency will be slightly looser than regular pudding.
Whip Cream and Combine with Yogurt: In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer at medium-high speed to beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the high-protein sweetened vanilla yogurt and continue beating until stiff peaks form, which should take 30 to 60 seconds. Scoop out 1/2 cup of this whipped cream mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Combine Pudding Mixture with Whipped Cream: Using a rubber spatula, fold the remaining whipped cream and yogurt mixture gently into the chilled pudding base until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, with no streaks remaining.
Assemble Layers: In small jars or serving glasses, layer the pudding by starting with 1/4 cup of the yogurt-pudding mixture, followed by 4 to 5 banana slices, then about 2 crumbled Nilla Wafers. Repeat this layering one more time and finish with 1/4 cup of the yogurt mixture on top.
Garnish and Serve: Top each assembled pudding with a spoonful of the reserved whipped cream mixture, a whole Nilla Wafer, and additional banana slices for garnish. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor.
The pudding can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
Plant-based milk can be used to make this recipe dairy-free, but cream should be substituted accordingly if needed.
For a lower fat version, use low-fat yogurt and reduce heavy cream, though texture may slightly vary.
Ensure the protein powder is vanilla-flavored to complement the pudding taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: high-protein banana pudding, protein dessert, healthy pudding, vanilla pudding, banana dessert, no-bake pudding