A Classic Dessert That Never Goes Out of Style

Banana pudding is one of those desserts that has lasted for generations for a reason. It is simple comforting and familiar in a way that feels nostalgic without trying too hard. Layers of creamy filling soft cookies and ripe bananas come together into something greater than the sum of its parts. It is the kind of dessert that shows up at family gatherings potlucks and Sunday dinners and somehow always disappears first.

Why Banana Pudding Works So Well

What makes banana pudding so special is its balance. It is rich but not heavy sweet but not overpowering and deeply satisfying without requiring complicated techniques or specialty ingredients. That simplicity is exactly what makes it such a perfect candidate for a cleaner high protein upgrade.

A More Balanced Take on the Original

This version focuses on real whole food ingredients that still deliver on texture and flavor. Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and depth. Greek yogurt adds creaminess along with a meaningful protein boost. A simple stovetop base thickened with cornstarch replaces traditional pudding mixes while keeping the filling smooth and spoonable. The end result is indulgent yet nourishing.

Why You Will Love This Version

This recipe is easy to make ahead and even better after it rests. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften creating that signature banana pudding texture. It works just as well for a casual weeknight treat as it does for serving guests.

High Protein Banana Pudding

Prep Time

15 minutes

Chill Time

1 hour (minimum)

Servings

4 to 6

Ingredients

Banana Cream Base

• 1 1/2 cups cold plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cup unsweetened milk

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ripe banana

Clean Whipped Layer

• 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream or coconut cream

• 1/2 cup cold plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly

• 2-3 ripe bananas sliced

• Clean vanilla wafer crackers

Instructions

1. Add all banana cream base ingredients to a high speed blender
2. Blend until completely smooth and thick
3. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate while preparing the whipped layer
4. Add all whipped layer ingredients to a clean blender
5. Blend just until thick fluffy and mousse like
6. Stop blending as soon as the mixture becomes airy
7. Gently fold the whipped layer into the banana cream base using a spatula
8. Mix slowly to keep the texture light
9. Layer banana cream sliced bananas and cookies in jars or a serving dish
10. Repeat layers until ingredients are used
11. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving

Notes for the Best Banana Pudding

• Use slightly underripe bananas
This is key. Slightly underripe bananas hold their shape better and give you that classic banana flavor without turning mushy or overly sweet.

• Mash the bananas well
The mashed bananas are doing the sweetening and thickening work. The smoother they are the creamier your pudding will be.

• Let the milk fully thicken before removing from heat
Do not rush this step. You want the mixture glossy and thick so it sets properly once chilled.

• Cool the base slightly before adding yogurt and protein powder
Adding them while the mixture is too hot can affect texture. Warm not hot is the sweet spot.

• Chill time matters
At least two to four hours is ideal. Overnight is even better for that true banana pudding flavor.

• Choose simple ingredient cookies
A basic vanilla wafer lets the banana flavor shine instead of competing with it.