This Protein Powder Pudding Recipe is for you if you’re looking for a quick, easy, high-protein sweet treat. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it takes minutes to prepare and creates a thick, creamy pudding that feels like a proper dessert.
I make it with cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder, then simply blend everything until smooth. You can enjoy it straight away or chill it for a thicker texture, and the flavor can easily be changed depending on the protein powder and toppings you use.
With 40g+ of protein per serving, this is an easy option for a satisfying snack or dessert, especially on busy days.
Protein Powder Pudding Recipe
Protein powder pudding is a simple way to turn a few everyday ingredients into a creamy, high-protein dessert. Instead of using a traditional pudding base and thickener, this recipe combines cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder for a thick, creamy texture.
I use both cottage cheese and Greek yogurt because blending the cottage cheese makes it smooth and creamy, while the yogurt adds moisture and a little tang. It also means you don’t need to use a large amount of cottage cheese, making the recipe more practical to make regularly.
You can use any flavor of protein powder you like. Try vanilla protein powder for a classic vanilla protein pudding, or chocolate protein powder and cocoa powder for chocolate protein pudding. I tested this recipe with different protein powders and found that they can vary quite a bit in texture, so I recommend choosing one you already enjoy and that blends smoothly.
For another easy high-protein option, try my high protein chia pudding.
Can You Add Protein Powder To Pudding?
Yes! Protein powder is an easy way to increase the protein content of pudding while also helping to thicken it. It works particularly well with cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, which provide the creamy base for this recipe.
Different protein powders can produce different results. Whey protein powder generally creates a smooth texture when it blends well, while some vegan protein powders can absorb more moisture and create a thicker texture. The flavor can also vary between brands, which is especially noticeable in a simple no-bake recipe like this one.
My tip: Use a protein powder you already enjoy, with a smooth texture. It makes a big difference to the finished pudding.
How To Make Pudding With Protein Powder
Making this protein pudding couldn’t be easier. Simply add the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, protein powder, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and salt to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth and creamy. That’s it!
You can enjoy the pudding immediately if you can’t wait, or divide it between two serving bowls and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes if you prefer it colder and slightly thicker. Once you’re ready to serve, add your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, peanut butter, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, or whipped cream are all delicious options.
The full ingredient list and step-by-step instructions are in the recipe card.
Ingredients
You’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this protein pudding:
- Cottage cheese – Adds protein and creates a rich, creamy texture once blended. You won’t notice the cottage cheese texture in the finished pudding.
- Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and a slight tang while keeping the pudding creamy. You can use either full-fat or low-fat plain Greek yogurt.
- Protein powder – Adds protein, sweetness, and helps thicken the pudding. You can use any flavor you like, such as vanilla protein powder or chocolate protein powder. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of your protein powder will affect the finished pudding, so I recommend using one you already enjoy.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and gives the pudding a more dessert-like taste.
- Maple syrup – Optional and can be adjusted to taste depending on how sweet your protein powder is. You may not need any at all.
- Salt – A small pinch helps balance the sweetness and bring out the other flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Add the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, protein powder, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and salt to a blender or food processor.
Step 2: Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Taste the pudding and adjust the sweetness if needed. Add a little more maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
Step 4: Divide the pudding evenly between two serving glasses or bowls.
Step 5: Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes if you prefer a chilled, slightly thicker texture.
Step 6: Add your favorite toppings before serving. Fresh berries, peanut butter, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, or whipped cream are all delicious options.
Protein Pudding Nutrition Facts
Each serving of this protein pudding contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 42.5g
- Carbohydrates: 10.3g
- Fat: 14.6g
- Fiber: 1.4g
- Sugar: 3.9g
I used full fat cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, but you can use low-fat or fat-free if you prefer. This recipe makes two large servings, but you can divide it into smaller portions if you like!
The exact nutrition will vary depending on the specific cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder you use. Different protein powders can vary quite a bit in their protein, carbohydrate, fat, and calorie content, so I recommend using the nutrition information from the specific products you choose for the most accurate calculation.
How To Get Smooth Protein Pudding
For the smoothest, creamiest protein pudding:
- Use a protein powder you enjoy: Different protein powders can vary significantly in texture and flavor. Some may remain slightly grainy even after blending and chilling.
- Blend well: Use a blender or food processor rather than simply stirring. This helps create a completely smooth texture, especially when using cottage cheese.
- Don’t add too much liquid: Because this recipe is quite thick, adding lots of milk can make the pudding too thin. If needed, add a little extra Greek yogurt instead.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the pudding for 15-30 minutes to allow it to thicken and firm up slightly.
- Remember that protein powder matters: Since this is a simple, no-bake recipe with very little liquid, the texture and flavor of your protein powder will be noticeable.
Protein Powder Pudding Flavor Variations
The best thing about this protein pudding is how easy it is to customize. The base recipe is delicious on its own, but you can easily switch up the flavor with a few simple additions. Here are a few of my favorite combinations:
Chocolate Protein Pudding
For a rich and chocolatey version, use chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla and add a little cocoa powder for an extra deep chocolate flavor. Top with chocolate chips and a little whipped cream for a simple dessert that feels extra indulgent.
Peanut Butter Protein Pudding
For a peanut butter version, add 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the pudding before blending. Blend until smooth, then top with a drizzle of peanut butter and a sprinkle of chocolate chips.
Berry Protein Pudding
For a fresh and fruity version, use the vanilla protein pudding base and top it with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The juicy, slightly tart berries add a lovely contrast to the thick, creamy pudding.
How To Store Protein Pudding
Store leftover protein pudding in an airtight container or covered serving glasses in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
The pudding may thicken slightly as it sits in the fridge. If needed, give it a good stir before serving and add your favorite toppings.
I recommend storing the pudding without toppings and adding things like fresh berries, chocolate chips, peanut butter, or whipped cream just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can use any flavor of protein powder you like in this recipe. Vanilla protein powder makes a classic vanilla protein pudding, while chocolate protein powder creates a rich chocolate version. You can also experiment with other flavors depending on what you have available.
Just keep in mind that different protein powders vary in sweetness and texture, so the protein powder you choose will affect the finished pudding.
Yes. Whey protein powder works well in this recipe, particularly when you use one with a smooth texture. Since this is a simple no-bake recipe with very little liquid, the texture and flavor of your protein powder will be noticeable.
Yes, you can use vegan protein powder, although the texture may be slightly different. Some plant-based protein powders absorb more moisture than whey, which can result in a thicker pudding. For the smoothest results, choose a vegan protein powder that you already enjoy and that blends well.
Yes. To make this recipe dairy free, use a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt, dairy-free cottage cheese if available, and a suitable vegan protein powder. Be sure to check the labels of your chosen ingredients, as products can vary in their ingredients and nutritional information.
Yes. You can replace the cottage cheese with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt. The pudding will still be creamy, but it will have a slightly tangier flavor and the protein content will be a little lower.
I like combining Greek yogurt and protein powder with cottage cheese because it creates a creamy texture while keeping the pudding high in protein without needing a large amount of cottage cheese.
More Protein Powder Recipes
If you’re looking for more ways to use protein powder, try these recipes:
Hey! If you make this recipe, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also, let me know on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!
Protein Powder Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 g cottage cheese (about 1 cup)
- 250 g plain Greek yogurt (about 1 cup)
- 60 g protein powder (about ½ cup) – any flavor
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup – optional, to taste
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Add the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, protein powder, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and salt to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
- Divide between two serving glasses or bowls.
- Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes for a chilled, slightly thicker texture.
- Add your favorite toppings before serving.
Video
Notes
- Use a protein powder with a smooth texture for the best results.
- You can use any flavor of protein powder, including vanilla or chocolate.
- If your pudding is too thick, add a little extra Greek yogurt rather than lots of milk.
- For a chocolate version, use chocolate protein powder and add cocoa powder.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free yogurt and vegan protein powder.
- Nutrition information will vary depending on the brands and varieties of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder used.
Nutrition
Let me know in the comments below if you make this Protein Powder Pudding Recipe!
