This Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding is a creamy, protein-packed dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With less sugar and more nutritious goodness, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a sweet treat while feeling good about it. Whether you’re after a healthier snack or a dessert that brings back some banana pudding nostalgia, this recipe has you covered.

A dessert glass filled with layers of banana slices and creamy pudding, elegantly topped with whipped cream. Nearby, a pink cloth and a gold spoon add a touch of sophistication.

Protein: 15 grams per serving

The protein in this recipe comes primarily from cottage cheese, a powerhouse ingredient known for its high protein content and versatility. I love using either full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese to ensure a creamy texture and delicious taste. Combined with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the optional boost of protein powder, this pudding becomes a satisfying, guilt-free indulgence. Making it was quick, and the smooth, velvety results were worth every second.

Why you will love this recipe

  • Protein Power: Packed with protein, it’s a perfect snack or dessert to fuel your day.
  • Simple & Wholesome: Made with easy, everyday ingredients you probably already have.
  • Quick & Easy: No fancy steps or techniques—just straightforward deliciousness.
  • Healthier Choice: A lighter option compared to traditional banana pudding, but just as satisfying.
  • Flexible Fun: Make it just for you or whip up a batch to share with friends!

Key ingredients and substitutions

Ingredients on a wooden surface: cottage cheese, cinnamon, honey, bananas, and vanilla extract create a delightful cottage cheese banana pudding. Optional toppings include banana slices, whipped cream, and vanilla cookies for an extra touch of indulgence.
  • Cottage Cheese: Full-fat or lactose-free options work best for creaminess. Swap with Greek yogurt if needed.
  • Ripe Bananas: Provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
  • Honey: Adds gentle sweetness; substitute maple syrup or a sugar-free option.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the banana flavor.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth; optional but recommended.

How to make cottage cheese banana pudding

  1. Blend the base: In a food processor or blender, combine cottage cheese, ripe bananas, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  2. Chill the mixture: Transfer the blended pudding to a large bowl or individual serving bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the pudding firm up.
  1. Prepare for serving: Slice additional bananas, crush graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers, and whip some cream for garnishes. Aerosol light whipped cream is a great way to save time and calories here!
  2. Assemble your pudding: Serve as-is, or layer the pudding in small bowls with crushed cookies, banana slices, and whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
  3. Optional add-ins: Sprinkle with chia seeds, peanut flour (PB2/PBfit), or a drizzle of peanut butter for added texture and healthy fats.
A glass of creamy banana pudding, enriched with cottage cheese, topped with whipped cream and banana slices. It sits elegantly beside a gold spoon and a pink napkin.

Recipe notes and tips

  • Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • Smooth texture: Blend thoroughly to achieve a silky-smooth texture.
  • Rich & creamy: For a deeper flavor, opt for full-fat cottage cheese.
  • Protein: If adding protein powder, go for vanilla or banana flavors to keep the pudding on point.

Storage instructions

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to ensure the texture remains creamy.
  • Freezer: Freeze portions in small containers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
  • Single-serve prep: Divide into individual servings before refrigerating for grab-and-go convenience.
  • Layering tip: Keep toppings like bananas and cookies separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Variations

  • Chocolate banana pudding: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate protein powder for a chocolatey twist.
  • Peanut butter bliss: Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter or sprinkle with peanut flour for added richness.
  • Low-calorie option: Use a low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese and a sugar-free sweetener like stevia.
  • Tropical flair: Top with shredded coconut or toasted coconut chips and a drizzle of honey for a tropical vibe.
  • Extra crunch: Replace vanilla cookies with crushed graham crackers or granola for added texture.
  • High-protein boost: Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder for even more grams of protein.

What to serve with this recipe

  • Fruit: Fresh berries, pineapple chunks, or kiwi slices for added freshness.
  • Cookies: Vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or shortbread for dipping.
  • Nut Butters: A dollop of peanut or almond butter for a rich, nutty complement.
  • Whipped Cream: A light topping for extra indulgence without the guilt. Check out my 5-minute dairy-free whipped cream recipe here!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes! Thaw them a little before blending for the best texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The pudding itself is gluten-free. Use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers for layering if needed.

Can I make it vegan?

Swap cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup for sweetness.

A glass of banana pudding, enriched with cottage cheese, is topped with whipped cream and rests on a wooden table next to a pink cloth and a golden spoon.

More cottage cheese recipes you will love

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A glass filled with creamy cottage cheese banana pudding topped with whipped cream, surrounded by a gold spoon and pink fabric.

Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding Recipe

Bethany Galloway
This Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding is a creamy, protein-packed dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With less sugar and more nutritious goodness, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a sweet treat while feeling good about it. Whether you’re after a healthier snack or a dessert that brings back some banana pudding nostalgia, this recipe has you covered.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 149
Protein 15

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 tablespoon honey - or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • pinch of cinnamon

For serving:

  • banana slices
  • vanilla cookies
  • whipped cream

Instructions

  • Blend the cottage cheese, bananas, maple syrup, vanilla extract and ground cinnamon in a blender until smooth.
    2 cups cottage cheese, 2 ripe bananas, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch of cinnamon
  • (Optional) Place it in the fridge for 2 hours to chill and firm up (it is totally edible right away though!).
  • Serve it in bowls as it is, or layered with vanilla cookies, whipped cream, and banana slices.
    banana slices, vanilla cookies, whipped cream

Notes

  • Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • Smooth texture: Blend thoroughly to achieve a silky-smooth texture.
  • Rich & creamy: For a deeper flavor, opt for full-fat cottage cheese.
  • Protein: If adding protein powder, go for vanilla or banana flavors to keep the pudding on point.

Storage instructions

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to ensure the texture remains creamy.
  • Freezer: Freeze portions in small containers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
  • Single-serve prep: Divide into individual servings before refrigerating for grab-and-go convenience.
  • Layering tip: Keep toppings like bananas and cookies separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 149kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 460mg | Potassium: 320mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 84IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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