Description
This High-Protein Banana Pudding is a creamy, delicious twist on a classic dessert that increases the protein content while keeping the beloved flavors intact. Featuring layers of vanilla protein-enhanced pudding, ripe bananas, crunchy Nilla Wafers, and a light whipped cream topping with yogurt, it’s a satisfying, nutritious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pudding
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 (3.4-oz.) package vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups whole or nondairy milk, cold
Whipped Cream Mixture
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/3 cup high-protein vanilla yogurt (such as Siggi’s)
Other
- 3 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
- 27 Nilla Wafers, lightly crumbled, plus 4 whole wafers for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla protein powder and the vanilla instant pudding mix. While continuously whisking, slowly stream in the cold milk until the mixture is smooth with no lumps, about 1 minute. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 40 minutes or up to overnight, allowing the pudding to thicken slightly.
- Make the Whipped Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer on medium-high speed to beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the high-protein vanilla yogurt and continue beating until stiff peaks form, approximately 30 to 60 seconds more. Scoop out 1/2 cup of this whipped cream mixture and refrigerate it for use as a topping later.
- Combine Pudding and Whipped Cream: Gently fold the remaining whipped cream mixture into the chilled pudding base with a rubber spatula until no streaks remain, ensuring a light and fluffy texture throughout.
- Assemble the Banana Pudding Layers: In small jars or serving glasses, start by layering 1/4 cup of the pudding mixture, followed by 4 or 5 banana slices, and about 2 crumbled Nilla Wafers. Repeat these layers once more, then finish with a final 1/4 cup of pudding mixture. Repeat the assembly process with the remaining jars or glasses.
- Finish with Toppings: Top each assembled pudding cup with a spoonful of the reserved whipped cream mixture. Garnish with a whole Nilla Wafer and additional banana slices for an attractive and tasty finish.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, use nondairy milk and coconut-based whipped topping instead of heavy cream and traditional yogurt.
- Letting the pudding chill longer enhances its texture and firmness.
- Slicing bananas fresh right before serving helps maintain their color and texture.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, but add wafer toppings just before serving to keep them crisp.
