Let me tell you, nothing hits quite like a cool, creamy banana pudding when you need a little sweet comfort but what if I told you we can whip one up that’s low carb, high protein, and takes just 15 minutes? That’s right, friend. This Low Carb Banana Pudding recipe is your new go to dessert when you’re craving something light, luscious, and downright satisfying. Made right in a cup no oven, no fuss, no regrets.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding in a Cup
- Ready in just 15 minutes with no baking involved
- It’s creamy, dreamy, and still counts as a healthy pudding recipe
- Perfectly portioned for one or scaled up for a cozy dessert spread
The Pantry Rundown
This isn’t your granny’s banana pudding though she’d be proud. Each ingredient has a purpose, and I’ll walk you through the “why” so you feel like a pro.
Cottage Cheese: This is where the magic happens. Packed with protein and that perfect tangy creaminess, it’s the base that gives this pudding that thick, satisfying texture. Plus, if you haven’t jumped on the cottage cheese desserts train, honey it’s time.
Ripe Banana: Just a few slices. We’re using the real thing here (not that fake extract business), so you get true banana flavor while keeping it a low calorie dessert.
Unsweetened Almond Milk: This thins things out just enough without loading up the carbs. Use coconut milk if you want a bit of tropical flair.
Vanilla Protein Powder: Not only does this make it a high protein low carb dessert, but it also helps thicken the pudding and sweeten naturally.
Chia Seeds (optional): These are for bonus fiber and that silky “pudding-y” consistency. Stir them in if you’re not in a rush to eat immediately.
Touch of Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Warm, cozy, and nostalgic. Just trust me on this.
How To Make This Pudding In Just 15 Minutes
Now, roll up your sleeves we’re diving in. This method is simple, quick, and blender-friendly. You won’t even need to peel yourself off the couch for long.
First, toss the cottage cheese, banana, almond milk, and protein powder into a blender or food processor. Give it a whirl until smooth. If your banana’s super ripe, it’ll blend like a dream.
Next, taste it. Does it need a pinch of cinnamon? More banana? Add what your taste buds tell you—it’s your kitchen, not a chemistry lab.
If you’re adding chia seeds, stir them in now and let the pudding sit for 10–15 minutes so they can do their thing. Otherwise, scoop it straight into cups, bowls, or even a mason jar if you’re feelin’ fancy.
Top with a slice of banana or some crushed low carb cookies if you’re feeling extra. And just like that—you’ve made a healthy banana pudding that’s rich, creamy, and kind to your goals.
Where Folks Usually Goof It Up
This pudding is healthy but still decadent, and a few simple missteps can mess with that balance:
- Using too much banana: One small banana is plenty for flavor without turning it into a sugar bomb.
- Skipping the blend: A quick blitz is what takes this from “baby food” to “banana custard vibes.” Don’t skip it.
- Choosing a sweetened milk or protein powder: Watch the label, friend. That added sugar sneaks in where you least expect it.
A Few Pro Tips Straight From My Nashville Kitchen
If you’re makin’ this pudding for a crowd or prepping ahead for the week, here’s what’s worked for me time and time again:
- Use mini dessert cups or ramekins for portion control and presentation. Makes it feel special, even if it’s just for you.
- Add a splash of lemon juice to your banana if you’re not eating it right away it keeps that bright color and prevents browning.
- Want more dessert inspiration? These mini tiramisu cups make a great companion dessert if you’re going for variety.
A Bonus Twist to Try
Let’s say you want to make this a little extra fancy, maybe for a dinner guest or just because you deserve it. Layer the pudding with crushed low carb cookies or even almond flour crumble. Add some whipped Greek yogurt or coconut cream between the layers. Suddenly it’s not just a low carb banana pudding recipe it’s a banana parfait with Southern flair.
Serving Ideas That Sing
This pudding shines solo, but if you’re in a mood to jazz things up:
- Top with toasted coconut for a little crunch.
- Add sliced strawberries for color and tang it pairs beautifully with banana.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts like pecans or almonds if you want a nutty vibe.
And y’all, if you love banana desserts, don’t miss my twist on banana pudding cake. It’s Southern sweet and just as nostalgic.
Low Carb Banana Pudding
Equipment
- Blender
- Cup or Ramekin
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 ripe banana sliced
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp chia seeds optional
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg to taste
Instructions
- Combine cottage cheese, banana, almond milk, and protein powder in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed. Add cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
- Optional: Stir in chia seeds and let sit for 10–15 minutes for a thicker texture.
- Spoon into a cup or ramekin. Top with banana slices, low carb cookie crumbles, or nuts if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese or use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Keep banana amounts modest to control sugar content.
FAQs
Can I make this without protein powder?
Absolutely. Just add a dash of vanilla extract and a little sweetener of choice to keep the flavor balanced. The texture will still be dreamy thanks to the cottage cheese.
Can I make this in advance for meal prep?
You sure can. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens over time. Just give it a quick stir before eating.
What’s a good high protein swap for cottage cheese?
Greek yogurt works in a pinch! It gives a tangier flavor, but still makes it a satisfying high protein dessert.
What’s the carb count in each cup?
It depends on your banana size and protein powder, but generally each serving stays around 6–8g net carbs. That makes it a perfect lowcarb pudding recipe that still feels indulgent.
Here’s What I’d Tell a Friend
This little cup of creamy, dreamy pudding might just become your nightly treat. It’s healthy banana pudding made simple, a hug in dessert form without derailing your low carb goals. Whether you enjoy it after dinner or sneak a cup for breakfast (hey, it’s packed with protein!), just know you’ve got a dessert that’s wholesome, warm, and welcome any time of day.
