Pin It I stumbled on this during one of those frantic desk-afternoon sugar crashes where my brain was screaming for something sweet but my meal prep conscience refused to budge. The regular banana pudding from my childhood kept flashing through my mind—those little vanilla wafers swimming in sweet custard at every church potluck and family reunion. So I started experimenting with Greek yogurt and protein powder, half convinced it would taste like gym flooring and the other half hoping for a miracle.
My gym partner caught me eating this out of a mason jar during our post-workout stretch session and looked at me like Id discovered some secret underground dessert operation. She took one bite and immediately demanded the recipe, then texted me three days later saying her kids had polished off the entire batch and had no idea it was healthy. Now it's the only thing I bring to office birthdays because nobody believes me when I say it's protein-packed.
Ingredients
- Nonfat Greek yogurt: This creates the creamy custard base that makes everything else work—full fat would throw off the macros but still delivers that luxurious texture
- Vanilla whey protein powder: Not all brands dissolve well into yogurt, so pick one you know mixes smoothly without turning gritty or chalky
- Sugar-free banana cream pudding mix: Just a small amount gives you that instant banana pudding flavor without having to mash actual bananas into the custard layer
- Unsweetened almond milk: You might need slightly more or less depending on your protein powder's thickness—start with two teaspoons and adjust
- Sugar-free vanilla wafers: Crushing these creates that classic texture contrast against the creamy layers and soft bananas
- Fresh banana slices: Wait until assembly to slice them so they don't oxidize and turn brown in your layered masterpiece
Instructions
- Whisk the base together:
- Combine the Greek yogurt, protein powder, pudding mix, and almond milk in a medium bowl, whisking until completely smooth with no powder lumps remaining
- Prep your serving vessels:
- Divide half the crushed vanilla wafers between two jars or cups, pressing them gently into the bottom layer
- Layer in the bananas:
- Arrange banana slices over the crumbled wafers, saving a few pretty pieces for the top if you care about presentation
- Add the protein custard:
- Spoon half the yogurt mixture over the bananas, using the back of your spoon to spread it evenly
- Repeat the pattern:
- Add another layer of crushed wafers, remaining bananas, and finish with the rest of the protein custard
- Let it chill:
- Refrigerate for at least thirty minutes so the wafers soften slightly and all the flavors meld together
Pin It 
My grandmother would be completely baffled by protein powder in her sacred banana pudding recipe, but honestly I think she'd appreciate that I found a way to eat dessert for breakfast without anyone judging me. Sometimes I make extra portions just because the assembly process is oddly therapeutic—layering ingredients into clear glass jars feels like creating little edible dioramas.
Flavor Variations
Sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon to the yogurt mixture, especially in fall when everything needs warming spices. A few drops of vanilla extract transforms it into something even more reminiscent of traditional banana pudding. For chocolate lovers, chocolate protein powder with chocolate graham crackers makes an entirely different but equally satisfying dessert that still hits all the nostalgic notes.
Texture Tips
The key is getting that contrast between creamy custard and slight crunch from the wafers. If you're meal prepping these for the week, keep the crumbled wafers in a separate container and add them right before eating so they don't become completely mushy. Some people prefer freezing the banana slices first for an almost ice cream-like texture when they thaw in the pudding layers.
Serving Suggestions
These look impressive in clear glass jars for parties or meal prep containers for weekday grab-and-go breakfasts. The protein content makes them substantial enough for post-workout recovery or an afternoon snack that actually keeps you full until dinner.
- Top with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for extra richness
- Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top for healthy fat and more texture
- Drizzle sugar-free caramel sauce over the final layer for that sundae aesthetic
Pin It This recipe started as a desperate experiment and ended up being one of those things I make twice a week without even thinking about it. Hope it becomes your go-to for when you want something that feels like dessert but acts like fuel.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long does this protein pudding keep in the refrigerator?
This layered dessert tastes best when enjoyed fresh within 24 hours. The wafers may soften slightly over time, though the flavors continue to develop beautifully during refrigeration.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based Greek-style alternative and choose a vegan protein powder. The creamy texture remains delicious while accommodating dietary preferences.
- → What makes this high in protein?
The combination of Greek yogurt and vanilla whey protein powder delivers 20 grams of protein per serving, making this a satisfying option for muscle recovery or staying fuller longer between meals.
- → Can I use different fruits besides bananas?
While bananas create the classic flavor profile, sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries work wonderfully as seasonal variations that maintain the layered presentation.
- → Why is chilling time important?
Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the pudding mixture to set properly and lets the flavors meld together, creating that signature creamy texture and cohesive taste throughout each layer.