Pin My gym buddy Sarah mentioned she was struggling to hit her protein goals while still satisfying her sweet tooth after workouts. We started experimenting in her tiny apartment kitchen one afternoon, and this banana pudding was the happy accident that actually worked.
The first time I made these for meal prep, my husband kept asking why I was eating pudding for breakfast. When I explained it was actually protein-packed, he immediately requested his own batch for work.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: This forms the creamy base and packs a serious protein punch while keeping the texture thick and luxurious
- Vanilla whey protein powder: The backbone that transforms this from snack to muscle-building fuel without the chalky aftertaste
- Sugar-free banana cream pudding mix: This creates that classic banana pudding flavor we all crave without spiking your blood sugar
- Unsweetened almond milk: Just enough to thin everything into a spoonable consistency while keeping it dairy-light
- Sugar-free vanilla wafers: Crushed between your fingers, these create that familiar crunch layer you remember from childhood
- Fresh banana: Sliced thin so every bite gets that real fruit sweetness and creamy texture
Instructions
- Whisk up your protein custard:
- Grab a medium bowl and whisk together your Greek yogurt, protein powder, pudding mix, and almond milk until everything is completely smooth and no powder lumps remain
- Build your first layer:
- Crush those vanilla wafers right into the bottom of your serving jars creating an even foundation
- Add banana goodness:
- Layer half your banana slices over the crushed cookies, saving the prettiest slices for topping
- Spoon in the creamy filling:
- Divide half your protein custard between the two jars, spreading it gently over the bananas
- Repeat the magic:
- Build another round with remaining cookies, bananas, and that luscious protein pudding on top
- Let it chill:
- Pop your jars in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so everything gets friendly and the flavors meld together beautifully
Pin I started bringing these to post-workout brunches and suddenly became the person everyone wanted to sit next to. Theres something special about digging into pudding when everyone else is eating plain protein bars.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I swap the banana wafers for crushed graham crackers when I want something slightly more buttery. The texture change is subtle but it feels like a completely different dessert.
Storage Strategies
These actually taste better after a few hours in the fridge. I make four at a time and keep them in glass jars with tight lids for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
Serving Ideas
Top with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream right before serving if you are feeling fancy. A light dusting of cinnamon or cacao powder also elevates the presentation without adding sugar.
- Sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for healthy fats and extra crunch
- Add a drop of vanilla extract to the custard for deeper flavor complexity
- Mash one banana slice into the custard for natural sweetness throughout
Pin This is the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating feel like a treat instead of a chore. Whip up a batch tonight and thank yourself tomorrow.
Recipe Q&A
- → How long should I chill the pudding?
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and achieve optimal texture. The custard sets better after chilling, creating the perfect creamy consistency.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use vegan protein powder. The texture remains creamy while accommodating dietary preferences.
- → What's the protein content per serving?
Each serving delivers 20 grams of protein, making this an excellent post-workout treat or satisfying snack that keeps you full longer.
- → How long does this last in the refrigerator?
Best enjoyed fresh within 24 hours. The wafers will continue softening over time, so assemble close to serving time for optimal crunch.
- → Can I use regular vanilla wafers?
Absolutely—sugar-free wafers reduce calories and carbs, but traditional vanilla wafers work perfectly. Adjust nutrition info if making substitutions.
- → What if the mixture seems too thick?
Add unsweetened almond milk one teaspoon at a time until reaching desired consistency. The mixture should be smooth and spoonable but not runny.