Easy Protein Banana Pudding is a creamy, high-protein twist on the classic Southern dessert. Made with ripe bananas, protein powder, and a few wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for a post-workout treat, healthy dessert, or even breakfast on the go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein: A satisfying way to curb cravings and support your fitness goals
- No-bake and easy: Comes together in minutes—no oven required
- Naturally sweetened: Made with ripe bananas and optional natural sweeteners
- Versatile: Can be made dairy-free, vegan, or gluten-free
- Tastes indulgent: Creamy, banana-rich flavor with nostalgic banana pudding vibes
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla; can sub dairy-free yogurt)
- 1 scoop vanilla or banana-flavored protein powder
- 2 tablespoons almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Optional toppings: sliced bananas, vanilla wafers, chia seeds, crushed nuts
directions
- Mash bananas: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Mix base: Add Greek yogurt, protein powder, almond milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sweetener (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust texture: Add a splash more milk if it’s too thick, or more protein powder if too thin.
- Chill (optional): For best texture, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let it set.
- Serve: Top with sliced bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or crushed wafers if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2–3
- Prep time: 5–10 minutes
- Chill time (optional): 30 minutes
- Total time: 10–40 minutes (depending on chilling)
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based protein powder and dairy-free yogurt
- Chocolate banana: Use chocolate protein powder and add a teaspoon of cocoa powder
- Overnight version: Add 2 tablespoons chia seeds and chill overnight for a thicker, pudding-like texture
- Blended: Blend all ingredients for an ultra-smooth texture
- Layered: Layer with vanilla wafers and banana slices in jars for a classic-style pudding parfait
storage/reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Freezing: Not recommended, as texture may become watery upon thawing
- Reheating: Not necessary—serve cold or at room temperature
FAQs
Can I make this without protein powder?
Yes—just skip it and reduce the milk slightly. The yogurt and banana still offer protein and creaminess.
What type of protein powder works best?
Vanilla or banana-flavored whey or plant-based protein powders blend best with this recipe.
Is this pudding good for meal prep?
Yes! Make it in advance and portion it out for ready-to-go snacks or breakfasts.
Can I use flavored yogurt?
Yes—just reduce added sweeteners to avoid making it too sweet.
How can I make it thicker?
Use less milk or add chia seeds, oats, or additional protein powder.
Is this suitable for kids?
Absolutely—just be mindful of the protein powder content if serving younger children.
Can I blend it instead of mashing?
Yes—blending gives a smoother, pudding-like texture.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, if you avoid wafers or use gluten-free cookies for topping.
What can I serve this with?
Try it with sliced bananas, granola, or healthy vanilla wafers for crunch.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes—just scale up the ingredients and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Easy Protein Banana Pudding is a fast, flexible recipe that satisfies sweet cravings while packing in nutritional benefits. Whether you enjoy it as dessert, post-workout fuel, or a make-ahead breakfast, this banana pudding proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health.
Print
Easy Protein Banana Pudding
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and nutritious banana pudding packed with protein—perfect for a post-workout snack or healthy dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for texture and added nutrition)
- Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers (optional, for topping)
- Banana slices, for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine bananas, Greek yogurt, protein powder, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- If using chia seeds, stir them in after blending and let sit for 10–15 minutes to thicken.
- Transfer the mixture to serving bowls or jars.
- Top with crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers and banana slices if desired.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use flavored Greek yogurt for a sweeter pudding without added sugar.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based yogurt and protein powder.
- Great for meal prep—store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 15mg