Name: High-Protein Banana Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (approximately 2 medium, spotted bananas, not overly ripe); 1 cup dairy-free coconut yogurt; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 4 tablespoons vanilla protein powder; 1 tablespoon tapioca starch; Pinch of kosher salt; 1 (9 ounce) container dairy-free coconut whipped cream, thawed (e.g., So Delicious); 24 gluten-free Mexican shortbread cookies; 2 medium ripe bananas, cut into coins

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 13 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that feels indulgent but fuels your body, this High-Protein Banana Pudding Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. It wonderfully blends the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy texture of coconut yogurt, all elevated by a generous boost of vanilla protein powder. The result? A luscious, guilt-free pudding that’s packed with protein, making it perfect for a post-workout snack or a wholesome dessert that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try it, the simplicity and deliciousness will win you over every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with a thin black rim contains a smooth, light brown creamy layer at the bottom, topped with a thick, fluffy white whipped layer being mixed with a black spatula that has a slightly shiny surface. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, with a bunch of bananas visible at the top right corner and part of another white plate with small round cookies at the top left. A mustard yellow textured cloth is placed at the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe shows how basic pantry staples can come together to create a rich and satisfying pudding. Each component plays a crucial role—from the bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture to the protein powder giving it that muscle-friendly edge.

Mashed ripe bananas (1 cup): Choose perfectly spotted bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor depth.
Dairy-free coconut yogurt (1 cup): Adds creamy texture and a subtle tropical note without any dairy.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the pudding with warm, aromatic tones that marry beautifully with banana.
Vanilla protein powder (4 tablespoons): Boosts protein content while enhancing the vanilla flavor; you can use plant-based or whey protein depending on your preference.
Tapioca starch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the pudding to silky perfection without overpowering the flavors.
Pinch of kosher salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the overall taste.
Dairy-free coconut whipped cream (9 ounces, thawed): For creamy, airy layers that bring the pudding to the next level.
Gluten-free Mexican shortbread cookies (24 cookies): Provide a delightful crunch and buttery contrast to the smooth pudding.
Medium ripe bananas (2, sliced into coins): Fresh banana slices add texture and visual appeal.

How to Make High-Protein Banana Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Blend the Base Ingredients

Start by adding mashed ripe bananas, dairy-free coconut yogurt, pure vanilla extract, vanilla protein powder, tapioca starch, and a pinch of kosher salt into a high-speed blender. Blend on low just until everything begins to combine, then scrape down the blender’s sides for even mixing. Gradually increase to medium speed and blend for about 30 seconds until the mixture is slightly fluffy but still smooth. Keep in mind, it won’t thicken like traditional pudding just yet, especially if you’re using coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.

Step 2: Chill to Set

Pour the blended mixture into an airtight container and place it in the fridge to chill and thicken for about 4 hours. This resting period lets the tapioca starch work its magic, turning the mixture into a creamy, pudding-like consistency. Meanwhile, make sure your dairy-free whipped cream is thawing in the fridge so it’s ready for assembling.

Step 3: Fold in Whipped Cream

Once the pudding base has set, transfer it to a medium bowl and gently fold in one cup of the thawed coconut whipped cream. Be careful to fold rather than stir vigorously—this helps keep the pudding light and airy, adding that irresistible creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Grab some ramekins or clear stemless wine glasses to showcase each beautiful layer. Spoon a generous 1/2 cup of the pudding mixture into each glass, then arrange five banana slices around the edges so they peek through. Crumble three gluten-free shortbread cookies over the pudding layer for a pleasant crunch.

Step 5: Finish with Toppings

Top off each glass with a few heaping tablespoons of the remaining dairy-free whipped cream. Crumble one additional cookie over each serving and finish with a single banana coin on top as a charming garnish. Return the pudding to the fridge until ready to serve—the chilling helps the flavors blend beautifully and thickens the texture even further.

How to Serve High-Protein Banana Pudding Recipe

The image shows a clear glass jar filled with a creamy, frothy drink that has a thick layer of whipped foam on top, sprinkled with small brown crumb pieces, possibly cookie or graham cracker crumbs. A gold spoon is partially dipped into the foam, revealing the light, airy texture of the top layer. In the background, there is another glass jar with similar layers visible frothy foam on top with crumbs beneath. The jars rest on a white marbled surface, with a few round, golden-brown cookies placed around the jars, adding texture and color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra pizzazz, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts on top before serving. A light dusting of cinnamon or cacao nibs can also bring a new flavor dimension that pairs perfectly with the banana and vanilla notes.

Side Dishes

This pudding shines on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded, light meal. For a more indulgent spread, consider serving alongside almond biscotti or crunchy granola for added texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering this pudding in mason jars for an on-the-go snack or elegant dessert jars for dinner parties. Alternately, serve it in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or carved fruit bowls for a fun seasonal twist that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pudding stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the cookie crumbles and banana coins separately to prevent them from becoming soggy, then add them fresh just before serving.

Freezing

This pudding does not freeze well due to the texture of the bananas and dairy-free cream, which can separate upon thawing. For best quality, enjoy it fresh or stored chilled in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheating is not recommended because this pudding is best enjoyed cold and creamy to maintain its texture and flavor integrity.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of dairy-free coconut yogurt?

Absolutely! Using Greek yogurt will make the pudding thicker and creamier from the start, but dairy-free coconut yogurt keeps it light and perfect for those avoiding dairy.

What kind of protein powder works best?

Vanilla-flavored plant-based or whey protein powders work great here. Just pick your favorite, but avoid those with strong flavors or textures that might overpower the banana and vanilla notes.

Can I make this pudding without tapioca starch?

The tapioca starch is essential for thickening and achieving that classic pudding texture. Without it, your pudding may remain more liquidy, so it’s best not to skip this ingredient.

How ripe should my bananas be?

Use bananas that are ripe enough to be sweet and flavorful with some brown spots, but not overly mushy or blackened. This balance ensures the pudding has natural sweetness without a fermented taste.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free shortbread cookies, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both nourishing and downright delicious, you have to try this High-Protein Banana Pudding Recipe. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a classic treat with a healthy twist that supports your fitness goals without sacrificing flavor. Once you make it, I bet it will become your go-to dessert for any occasion!