High-Protein Banana Pudding

When you want something sweet and creamy but also want to include more protein in your day, this high-protein banana pudding is an easy option. It has the familiar flavor of banana pudding while using cottage cheese and vanilla protein powder to create a satisfying dessert with a substantial amount of protein. The cottage cheese provides the creamy foundation of the pudding. When blended thoroughly, it becomes remarkably smooth and loses most of the texture associated with ordinary cottage cheese. Vanilla protein powder contributes sweetness and additional protein, while banana pudding mix provides the recognizable banana-dessert flavor. A small amount of maple syrup or sugar-free syrup can be used to adjust the sweetness. Vanilla extract rounds everything out and gives the pudding a more developed dessert-like flavor. The recipe is particularly flexible because you can customize it according to your dietary preferences. The optional banana can be included for a more natural fruit flavor, or omitted when preparing a lower-carbohydrate version. Wafers and whipped topping are also optional, allowing you to make the dessert as simple or elaborate as you like.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cottage cheese
• ¼ cup vanilla protein powder
• 2½ tbsp banana pudding mix (Simply Delish)
• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar-free syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ banana, optional; omit for low-carb preparation
• 2 tbsp crushed wafers, with gluten-free or low-carb options available
• ¼ cup whipped topping, optional

Instructions

1. Blend the Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese to a high-speed blender. Blend until the cottage cheese becomes completely smooth and creamy. Take your time with this step because a thorough blend is what creates the pudding-like consistency. If necessary, stop the blender and scrape down the sides before blending again.
2. Add the Main Flavor Ingredients: Add the vanilla protein powder, banana pudding mix, maple syrup or sugar-free syrup, and vanilla extract to the smooth cottage cheese. Blend again until all of the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture looks creamy and uniform.
3. Adjust the Consistency: Check the texture of the pudding. If it is thicker than you prefer, gradually add milk until you reach the desired consistency. Add the milk a little at a time rather than pouring in a large amount. Blend between additions so you can control the thickness accurately.
4. Prepare the Serving Cups: Divide the crushed wafers between two serving cups and create a small layer at the bottom of each. The wafers provide a crunchy contrast to the smooth pudding.
5. Add Whipped Topping: If using whipped topping, add a small spoonful over the wafer layer. This creates an additional creamy and airy component.
6. Add the Banana Pudding: Spoon the blended pudding mixture into the serving cups. Create an even layer over the crushed wafers and whipped topping.
7. Repeat the Layers: If your serving cups have enough room, continue layering the wafers, whipped topping, and pudding until the cups are filled. Finish with a small amount of whipped topping.
8. Add Optional Garnishes: For a traditional banana pudding appearance, sprinkle additional crushed wafers over the top and add a slice of banana. If preparing the recipe as a low-carb dessert, leave out the banana.
9. Chill and Serve: The pudding can be enjoyed immediately, but refrigerating it gives it a colder, more settled texture. For the best chilled result, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Notes

Use a high-speed blender to achieve the smoothest possible pudding texture. Blend the cottage cheese thoroughly before adding the remaining ingredients. Add milk gradually if the mixture is too thick. Avoid adding too much milk at once because the pudding can become overly thin. Adjust the sweetness according to the protein powder and pudding mix being used. Regular maple syrup can be used when carbohydrate content is not a concern. Use sugar-free syrup for a lower-carb version. Omit the half banana when preparing the low-carb variation. Low-carb wafers can be used when desired. Choose gluten-free wafers for a gluten-free version. Whipped topping is optional and can be omitted. For a dairy-free adaptation, use dairy-free yogurt in place of cottage cheese and choose plant-based milk and whipped topping. Greek yogurt can replace cottage cheese in a 1:1 ratio, although less milk may be required. If the pudding separates slightly during refrigeration, stir gently before serving. For advance preparation, keep the finished pudding covered and refrigerated. Nutritional values can change when ingredient brands or optional toppings are changed.