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Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding

Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding

Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding is a creamy, protein-packed dessert combining ripe bananas and tangy cottage cheese with natural sweeteners and warming vanilla. This healthy twist on classic banana pudding offers a luscious texture and versatile flavor, perfect for any meal or snack, easy to prepare with simple ingredients, and customizable to suit dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 cup small-curd, low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Optional Variations & Additions

  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (for protein boost)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for nutty crunch)
  • 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips or 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for chocolate twist)
  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen berries (for berry mix)
  • Plant-based ricotta or blended silken tofu (to replace cottage cheese for vegan version)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bananas: Peel and slice 2 ripe bananas into thin rounds, reserving a few slices for garnish later. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and creamier your pudding will be.
  2. Blend Cottage Cheese and Milk: In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup small-curd, low-fat cottage cheese with 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, creamy consistency forming the pudding base.
  3. Add Sweetener and Flavor: Pour in 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional). Blend again until fully incorporated and aromatic.
  4. Combine Bananas and Cream: Gently fold the sliced bananas into the cottage cheese mixture, being careful not to overmix to maintain some banana texture. Reserve some banana slices for topping.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Transfer the pudding to serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows flavors to meld and the pudding to thicken to the perfect consistency.

Notes

  • Choose small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother pudding texture.
  • Use ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness without added sugar.
  • Use high-quality pure vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually to keep balance—start with less and add more if desired.
  • For best texture and flavor, prepare the pudding the day before and chill overnight.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; keep garnishes separate.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it alters texture and causes separation.
  • Best served chilled; if preferred warm, serve at room temperature instead of reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: cottage cheese banana pudding, healthy banana pudding, protein dessert, creamy banana pudding, gluten free dessert, no bake pudding