You are going to LOVE these Banana Pudding Jars. This recipe is not only quick and delicious but also a healthier take on a classic favourite. We bet you have these ingredients in your kitchen already, making this a convenient and wholesome dessert option that’s ready in under 5 minutes!
What is banana pudding?
Banana pudding is a classic Southern American dessert known for its comforting and creamy texture. It typically consists of layers of sliced ripe bananas, vanilla-flavoured pudding (either homemade or instant), and vanilla wafer cookies. While it’s an utterly delicious dessert, it’s not the most nourishing! So I’ve created a version of this classic pudding that is healthy and also easy to make! Now – it’s not “the real deal” but I think you’ll find it satisfies your craving whilst still nourishing your body.
These Banana Pudding Jars are a quick, easy, and nourishing dessert that balances creamy indulgence with nutrient-rich ingredients. With a luscious vanilla-infused yoghurt base, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and a touch of crunch from wholesome cookies, this delightful treat satisfies cravings while promoting gut health, muscle maintenance, and a guilt-free indulgence in every spoonful. It’s a five-minute recipe that proves you can have both convenience and nutrition in a delectable dessert.
Why you will love these banana pudding jars:
- Speedy Sweetness: This dessert is lightning-fast, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in no time.
- Healthy Indulgence: It’s good for your soul and your body!
- Minimal Ingredients: No need for a grocery run; you likely have all the ingredients on hand.
- Customizable: Tailor it to your taste with variations like protein powder flavours, yoghurt types, and toppings.
- Texture Harmony: Experience the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet in every spoonful.
Ingredients you need
Yoghurt – Yogurt serves as the creamy and protein-rich base for our pudding. It’s an excellent source of calcium, probiotics, and high-quality protein, making it great for bone health, gut health, and muscle maintenance. I like using Greek Yoghurt or Skyr for their extra protein and gut-health benefits.
Vanilla Protein – Vanilla protein powder is an optional addition that enhances the protein content of our dessert. Protein is essential for muscle repair and satiety, keeping you fuller for longer. Vanilla protein also imparts a pleasant flavour to the pudding while contributing to a balanced and satisfying treat (see below for substitutions).
Vanilla Extract – Vanilla extract is used to infuse our dessert with a rich, warm, and comforting aroma.
Banana – Bananas are a natural sweetener in this recipe, offering a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. They are a prime source of potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle and nerve function. The natural sugars in bananas provide a satisfying sweetness without the need for added sugar.
Cookies – The cookies, particularly if they are of the healthier variety like my healthy shortbread cookies, contribute a delightful crunch and texture to our dessert. You can use any kind of biscuit or cookie or even some granola!
Ingredient Substitutions
Protein Powder – You can use some vanilla collagen or vanilla pudding if you have access to it. Another option is to simply use a vanilla-flavoured yoghurt or add a touch of liquid sweetener to your yoghurt.
Yoghurt – Feel free to experiment with different yoghurt types to change the flavour and texture. Greek yoghurt will provide extra creaminess and protein, while coconut yoghurt is a great dairy-free option.
Cookies – If you’re looking for healthier cookie options, consider using whole-grain or oatmeal cookies. You can also explore different flavours of cookies, like chocolate chip or ginger snaps, to add variety to your dessert. Granola also works as a great substitute.
How to make banana pudding jars
I’ve added the step-by-step instructions along with some photos, AND I’ve also got a video for you to follow along with.
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base
Combine your yoghurt, protein powder (if using) and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix with a fork until you have a smooth and creamy pudding base.
Step 2: Slice the Banana
Slice your banana into coin-shaped pieces.
Step 3: Crumble the Cookies
Break your cookies into small pieces. Adjust as desired for extra crunch.
Step 4: Assemble Your Banana Pudding Jar
Find a mason jar or your preferred glass container. Start by layering the cookie pieces at the bottom for a crunchy base. Add a layer of banana slices evenly. Top it off with the creamy vanilla pudding mixture. I like doing two layers of each to get all the goodness in every bite.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Dessert
Grab a spoon and savour the layers of creamy pudding, sweet banana, and crunchy cookies.
Extra Tips:
- Ensure your bananas are ripe for the best flavour.
- Adjust sweetness with honey or your preferred sweetener.
- Experiment with various protein powder flavours.
- Try different cookies or cookie types for varied textures.
- Prepare ahead for convenient and tasty meal prep.
- Get creative with toppings like whipped cream or chocolate sauce.
How to Store Banana Pudding Jars
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as it may affect the texture.
- Keep additional toppings separate until serving for freshness.
more easy and healthy desserts you need to try:
- Biscoff Banoffee Pie Cups
- Single Serve Tiramisu
- Healthy Single-Serve Banana Bread (made in the microwave!)
Healthy Banana Pudding Jars
Equipment
- Mason Jars or similar
Ingredients
- 125 g Yoghurt 1 cup
- 10 g Vanilla Protein Powder 1 tbsp – see notes for substitutes
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 60 g Banana 1 small or half a large banana
- 4-6 Healthy Shortbread Cookies or cookies of choice or more or less 🙂
Instructions
- Combine yoghurt, protein & vanilla.
- Slice banana into coins
- Break cookies into small pieces.
- Layer cookies, banana and vanilla pudding in your jar and enjoy.
Video
Notes
- Whilst I do provide the US cup measurements for the recipe, I always recommend using a kitchen weighing scale and using the weighted measurements instead. This will result in a more accurate process and your cake will come out perfectly.
- You can make multiple servings ahead of time and keep them in the fridge!
- Ensure your bananas are ripe for the best flavour.
- Adjust sweetness with honey or your preferred sweetener.
- Experiment with various protein powder flavours.
- Try different cookies or cookie types for varied textures.
- Get creative with toppings like whipped cream or chocolate sauce.
- MORE INFO:
