High Protein Cherry Pudding
This high protein cherry pudding is a creamy dessert that combines the sweetness of cherries with a rich, smooth pudding base while providing a significant amount of protein. It can be served as a healthy dessert, breakfast, or post-workout snack. The pudding is thick, lightly sweet, and balanced with the natural tartness of cherries.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2–3 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cherry Layer
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
For the Protein Pudding Base
2 cups milk (dairy or high-protein milk)
1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
For Extra Creaminess
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup cottage cheese (optional, for additional protein)
Optional Toppings
Extra cherries
Chopped almonds or pistachios
Dark chocolate shavings
Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
Equipment
Medium saucepan
Small saucepan
Whisk
Blender (optional)
Mixing bowls
Serving glasses or dessert bowls
Refrigerator
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Wash and pit the cherries if using fresh fruit. If using frozen cherries, allow them to thaw slightly so they release their juices more easily during cooking.
Place the cherries in a small saucepan. Add the sugar or honey and the lemon juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
As the cherries warm, they will begin to soften and release their juices. Continue cooking for about 4–5 minutes until the fruit becomes tender.
Step 2: Thicken the Cherry Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. This helps prevent lumps when thickening the sauce.
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the cherries while stirring constantly. Continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the cherry mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, cornstarch, maple syrup or honey, and salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly so the cornstarch dissolves completely.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and continue whisking while the mixture heats. As the liquid warms, the cornstarch will begin to thicken the pudding.
After about 4–6 minutes, the mixture should become noticeably thicker and coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add the Protein Powder
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly whisk in the protein powder. Add it gradually while whisking constantly to prevent clumps from forming.
Continue stirring until the pudding becomes smooth and evenly mixed.
Step 5: Add Flavor and Creaminess
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the pudding to cool for about 5 minutes. Once slightly cooled, add the Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, you can blend the pudding briefly in a blender.
Step 6: Assemble the Pudding
Prepare serving glasses or small dessert bowls. Spoon a layer of cherry sauce into the bottom of each container.
Next, add a generous layer of the protein pudding mixture.
Continue alternating layers of cherry sauce and pudding until the containers are filled.
Finish with a small layer of cherries on top.
Step 7: Chill the Pudding
Cover the containers with plastic wrap or lids and place them in the refrigerator.
Allow the pudding to chill for at least 2–3 hours. This resting time allows the pudding to thicken further and helps the flavors blend together.
Step 8: Add Toppings
Before serving, add your preferred toppings such as chopped nuts, extra cherries, dark chocolate shavings, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
This high protein cherry pudding can be served as a healthy dessert, a breakfast parfait, or a post-workout snack. The combination of fruit and protein makes it satisfying while still being light.
For breakfast, serve it with granola or oats. For dessert, pair it with whipped cream or chocolate shavings.
Nutrition Estimate (per serving)
Protein: approximately 18–25 grams depending on the protein powder used
Calories: approximately 220–260
Carbohydrates: about 25–30 grams
Fat: about 4–6 grams
Storage Instructions
Store the pudding in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for about 3–4 days. Stir gently before eating if the layers settle.
This pudding is not recommended for freezing because the texture may become grainy after thawing.
Variations
You can replace cherries with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries. Chocolate protein powder can also be used to create a chocolate cherry version of this pudding. Almond milk or oat milk can be used instead of regular milk if you prefer a dairy-free option.
