Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding

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This Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding is not your typical southern-style dessert. It takes everything you love about creamy banana pudding and gives it a protein-packed twist with whipped cottage cheese. Layers of crushed vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and luscious cottage cheese mousse create an unexpectedly delightful treat that’s rich, airy, and sweet without being overly indulgent.

Perfect for summer potlucks, light after-dinner desserts, or even a sweet breakfast option, this pudding is both versatile and easy to assemble. It’s a clever way to sneak in some extra protein while still satisfying those dessert cravings. The textures—smooth, crunchy, and fluffy—come together in every spoonful for a memorable bite.

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What Kind of Cottage Cheese Should I Use?

For this recipe, go with full-fat or 2% small curd cottage cheese—it blends more smoothly when whipped. If you’re watching fat content, low-fat versions can work, but they may alter the richness and creaminess. Make sure to blend until completely smooth for that mousse-like consistency.

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Ingredients for the Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding

• Cottage Cheese – The star protein-packed ingredient; when whipped, it becomes light and creamy like mousse.
• Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix – Adds structure and classic banana pudding flavor.
• Milk – Helps dissolve and activate the pudding mix for a smooth blend.
• Cool Whip or Whipped Topping – For a fluffy, light texture layered throughout.
• Bananas – Use ripe, firm bananas for optimal sweetness and texture.
• Vanilla Wafers or Graham Crackers – Brings a buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft layers.
• Crushed Nuts (optional) – For added crunch and a nutty layer of flavor.

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How To Make the Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding

Step 1: Whip the Cottage Cheese

Add your cottage cheese to a food processor or blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy—this step is crucial for the pudding-like consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding Base

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and milk. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Fold the whipped cottage cheese into the prepared pudding base until well combined. Gently fold in the Cool Whip to keep it light and airy.

Step 4: Layer the Pudding

In a glass trifle dish or individual cups, start layering: crushed vanilla wafers, pudding mixture, banana slices. Repeat the layers until you reach the top.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Top with extra banana slices, crushed nuts (if using), and a sprinkle of wafer crumbs. For presentation, chill the pudding for at least 1 hour before serving so it sets and the flavors meld.

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How to Serve and Store Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding

This pudding is best served chilled, making it ideal for hot days when you want something sweet yet refreshing. You can serve it in a large trifle bowl for a dramatic presentation or scoop individual portions into dessert cups or jars for a more personal touch.

To store, cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, note that the bananas may start to brown slightly over time. To avoid this, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the banana slices before layering.

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of both the cottage cheese and bananas will become watery and unappealing after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors have more time to meld. Just add the banana slices right before serving if you want to keep them looking fresh.

Is it okay to use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Greek yogurt can be used, but the texture and tanginess will differ. Cottage cheese offers a more mousse-like texture and a richer mouthfeel.

Can I make this recipe without instant pudding mix?

You could, but the pudding mix provides stability and enhances the banana flavor. If omitting, consider using mashed bananas and a bit of cornstarch for thickening.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

A light coating of lemon juice over the slices will slow oxidation. Alternatively, slice the bananas just before layering or serving.

What other toppings go well with this pudding?

Chopped pecans, shaved dark chocolate, or even a drizzle of honey can elevate the flavors and add texture.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s stabilized with a bit of sugar or cornstarch so it doesn’t collapse too quickly.

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Protein Twist?

If you love this Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding, you might want to explore other satisfying, creative desserts that don’t compromise on flavor:

• Millionaire Peach Salad for a fruity, creamy indulgence with a southern vibe.
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs if you crave chocolate layered with surprise.
• Southern Hummingbird Cake for banana lovers wanting something baked and spiced.
• Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie with its luscious filling and vintage charm.
• Irresistible Blueberry Lime Cheesecake Cupcakes for a tangy and creamy bite-sized treat.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can revisit it whenever the craving hits.

And if you make this Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding, I’d love to hear how it went! Did you swap out the whipped topping or add a twist of your own? Maybe a peanut butter drizzle?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below—your feedback helps us all make these recipes even better. Got a question? Don’t hesitate to ask!

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