You are going to LOVE these Healthy Banana Pudding Jars. This recipe is quick and delicious and a healthier take on a classic favourite. I bet you already have these ingredients in your kitchen, making this a convenient and wholesome dessert option in under 5 minutes!
What is healthy 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 could be more nourishing! So, I’ve created a version of this classic pudding that is healthy and easy to make! It’s not “the real deal,” but I think you’ll find it satisfies your craving while 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 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 creamy, crunchy, and sweet blend 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 infuses 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 fiber. 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 adding 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 biscuit or cookie or even some granola!
Ingredient Substitutions
Protein Powder – You can use some vanilla collagen or vanilla pudding if you can access it. Another option is to 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 – For healthier cookie options, consider 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 and some photos, AND I’ve also got a video for you to follow.
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 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!)
FAQs about this healthy banana pudding recipe
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
You can easily make this sugar-free banana pudding by ensuring that all your ingredients, including the yoghurt and cookies, do not contain added sugars. Choose a protein powder that’s unsweetened or sweetened with a sugar-free alternative. Consider using a natural sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit if you need additional sweetness.
Is it possible to use canned coconut milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the yoghurt with canned coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It will give the pudding a tropical twist and a creamy texture. Just remember that canned coconut milk is richer and has a higher fat content than yoghurt, which will alter the nutritional profile of the dessert.
I love banana pudding but want to reduce the calories. Any suggestions?
If you love banana pudding but want a lower-calorie version, consider using a light or non-fat yoghurt and a sugar-free protein powder. Additionally, you can choose low-calorie cookies or even omit them, replacing them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor without the extra calories.
Can I add whipped topping to this banana pudding jar?
Yes, adding a whipped topping can be a delightful finish to these banana pudding jars. For a healthier option, consider using a light and cool whip topping or make your own by whipping chilled canned coconut milk with a bit of vanilla extract. It adds a luxurious texture without too many additional calories.
Do I need a food processor to make this dessert?
No, a food processor is not necessary for this recipe. The preparation is quite straightforward and only requires essential kitchen tools like a knife for slicing the frozen bananas and a fork or spoon for mixing the pudding base. However, if you prefer a smoother texture for your cookies, you could use a food processor to crumble them finely.
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:
