Protein pudding is my absolute favorite go-to when I need a sweet fix in a hurry. Made with just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a single serving in just a few minutes.
Protein Pudding Puts a Protein Shake to Shame
If you're someone who regularly supplements your diet with protein, you're probably familiar with how boring and repetitive a protein shake can be. It's not particularly tasty and because you're drinking your supplement instead of eating it, it doesn't leave you very satisfied.
Protein pudding however, is an entirely different story.
So instead of ingesting protein powder straight up with water or almond milk (as I usually do), try this simple trick and fall in love with your protein treats.
How to make Protein Pudding
It's so simple. Just toss the following ingredients into a food processor (or blender) and you'll be enjoying your creamy protein pudding in no time:
- Your favorite brand + flavor of protein powder (I love chocolate)
- 1/2 banana
- 2 Tablespoons of coconut cream
- pinch of salt
- 1 sachet of stevia (optional, depending on how sweet your protein powder is)
Why Coconut Cream?
Unlike coconut milk, coconut cream has a thicker consistency. I like using it because it's healthy, it has a pudding-like texture and it doesn't have an overwhelming flavor. I've tried this recipe with greek yogurt instead of coconut cream, but the bitterness of the yogurt overpowers the flavor.
Pro Tip - if you're here in the US, Trader Joe’s Coconut Cream (in the brown and white can) is the best. If you don't have a TJ's nearby, most grocery stores will carry coconut cream in the asian food section. Buy a couple of cans of this stuff to keep in your pantry. It's also ideal for thickening soups and curries.
You. Will. Love. It.
Which Protein Should You Use?
I recommend a whey protein for this recipe as it will give it a creamier texture. If you're dairy-free, you can use a plant-based protein, but you want to be careful to pick one that doesn't have a grainy texture. I think this brand does a good plant-based protein. My favorite chocolate whey is this brand (they have plant-based, too). It also makes the perfect protein pancake!
Want to make it Vanilla?
Go for it! Just use a vanilla-flavored protein powder instead. In fact, you can use any protein powder flavor (I love red velvet). Consider adding a dash (1/4 tsp) of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
More Ideas to Bling up Your Protein Pudding
Not that it needs more bling - it's pretty good on it's own, but if you're looking to make this into more of a "meal" (which you absolutely can as it's filled with protein, healthy fats and fruit), consider these options:
- Chopped nuts
- Fresh berries
- Unsweetened shredded coconut
- PB2 or full-fat nut butter
- *Chocolate chips
*You can add chocolate chips whole, or melt them for some added chocolate gooeyness. I always recommend using Lily’s Chocolate Chips because they’re sweetened with stevia (a natural, calorie free sweetener), but use what you have. You can also add chopped nuts or fresh berries!
This Protein Pudding is 21 Day Fix Approved
Are you following the 21 Day Fix (AKA, Ultimate Portion Fix) meal plan? If so, one serving of protein pudding (without any of the additional items mentioned above) is:
- 1 blue (healthy fat)
- 1/2 purple (fruit),
- 1 red (protein).
Curious what the Ultimate Portion Fix (a.k.a. the 21 Day Fix Meal Plan) is? Click here to learn more.
Want more Protein Treats? I have So Many...
- The best protein pancake recipe (different than the one above)
- Protein Mug Cake
- Protein Crepes
- Protein Pumpkin Muffins
- Protein Banana Bread
Easy Protein Pudding - Chocolate or Vanilla
A quick and simple way to enjoy a protein treat that's clean, healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 scoop protein powder - I recommend chocolate whey
- 1/2 banana
- 2 Tbsp Trader Joe's Coconut Cream
- 1 sachet of stevia, optional
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- blend ingredients in a food processor and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to play with your flavors!
- If you're using chocolate protein, try adding a tablespoon of nut butter or PB2
- Creating a vanilla pudding? Add a 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract to enhance the flavors
- I love Walden Farms Maple Syrup on either chocolate or vanilla pudding.
- Toss in some chocolate chips or shredded coconut for an additional texture.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size 1 cupAmount Per Serving Calories 262Total Fat 12gCarbohydrates 21gNet Carbohydrates 16gFiber 5gSugar 9gProtein 22g
Caren is a certified yoga teacher, fitness instructor and ADHD Coach. As the founder of The Fit Habit, she shares ADHD-friendly self-care, food & fitness inspiration, along with practical ways to foster mind + body wellness.
Meghan@CleanEatsFastFeets
The next best thing compared to Real Housewives and Chardonnay. Now that is good!!