If you’re looking for a luscious bite of dessert that perfectly fuses classic Italian flavors with modern nutritional goals, this Protein Tiramisu Pudding is destined to become your new favorite treat. Imagine all the luxurious creaminess and robust espresso notes of traditional tiramisu, but reinvented as a power-packed pudding you can feel fantastic about eating any time of day. Whether you need a high-protein snack, a unique breakfast option, or a guilt-free dessert, this recipe is delightfully simple to make and bound to satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Pudding:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably 2% or whole milk)
- 1 scoop vanilla or tiramisu-flavored protein powder
- 2 tablespoons brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cocoa powder (plus more for dusting)
- 1/2 cup crushed high-protein cookies or ladyfingers
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for topping
How to Make Protein Tiramisu Pudding
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and whisking together your Greek yogurt, protein powder, cooled espresso, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder. Whisk until everything is silky smooth and lump-free. The protein powder integrates right into the yogurt, forming a satisfyingly thick and creamy base that smells just like an old-fashioned tiramisu café.
Step 2: Layer the Pudding
Spoon half of your yogurt mixture into the bottom of a small glass or jar. Next, sprinkle on a layer of crushed high-protein cookies or ladyfingers. These will soak up some of that wonderful espresso flavor and give you that classic, layered tiramisu texture. Add the remaining yogurt mixture, then finish with another layer of cookies. The layering is what turns this into Protein Tiramisu Pudding worthy of any dessert lover!
Step 3: Chill for Flavors to Meld
Cover your jars or glasses and pop them into the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling step lets the cookies soften up and the flavors blend perfectly, mimicking that beloved tiramisu richness in a fraction of the time (and without the fuss of eggs and mascarpone). If you can, let it sit overnight for an even dreamier dessert.
Step 4: Finish with Toppings
When you’re ready to serve, dust the top with a little extra cocoa powder for that signature tiramisu look. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle on some chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips. The contrast of creamy pudding and chocolaty crunch is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Protein Tiramisu Pudding
Garnishes
This pudding loves a generous dusting of cocoa powder and a scattering of dark chocolate shavings or chocolate chips. For even more elegance, a single coffee bean or a little twist of orange zest can add the perfect professional touch.
Side Dishes
While this dessert happily stands on its own, it also pairs nicely with a handful of fresh berries or a small espresso on the side. You might even serve it with a crisp biscotti for a chic Italian-inspired coffeehouse moment at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Protein Tiramisu Pudding in small glass jars, martini glasses, or even espresso cups for a playful nod to its origins. Make a mini dessert platter with individual serving sizes, or layer it in a large trifle dish for an eye-catching brunch centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Protein Tiramisu Pudding covered in the refrigerator. It stays delicious for up to three days, and you’ll notice the cookies get even more tender as they soak up flavor over time.
Freezing
While this pudding is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir before serving; note the texture may become slightly more icy but the flavors remain wonderful.
Reheating
Since Protein Tiramisu Pudding is meant to be enjoyed cold, there’s no need to reheat. If frozen, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and give it a quick stir to refresh the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make Protein Tiramisu Pudding completely dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite coconut or plant-based yogurt and a vegan protein powder. The method and ratios stay the same, and you’ll still get that creamy, satisfying texture.
What if I don’t have espresso on hand?
Strongly brewed coffee makes a great substitute for espresso in this recipe. Just be sure to let it cool before mixing so you don’t thin out your pudding base.
Can I prep Protein Tiramisu Pudding the night before?
Yes! In fact, prepping a day ahead allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to develop, making it even more delicious and perfect for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
How can I reduce the sugar content?
Swap the maple syrup or honey for your favorite sugar-free sweetener, and use unsweetened protein powder and yogurt for a lower-sugar dessert without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Of course! Just multiply the ingredients and layer the pudding in a large serving dish or trifle bowl. Serve with a big spoon and watch it disappear at your next gathering.
Final Thoughts
There’s something uniquely satisfying about enjoying a Protein Tiramisu Pudding that’s as nourishing as it is decadent. Next time you’re craving dessert or need a high-protein pick-me-up, whip up a batch to share, savor, and celebrate a little everyday indulgence—one creamy, coffee-kissed spoonful at a time!
PrintProtein Tiramisu Pudding Recipe
Indulge in a guilt-free treat with this Protein Tiramisu Pudding recipe. Creamy Greek yogurt, protein powder, and coffee flavors come together in a delightful dessert that’s high in protein and low in guilt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chill time)
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably 2% or whole milk)
- 1 scoop vanilla or tiramisu-flavored protein powder
- 2 tablespoons brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cocoa powder (plus more for dusting)
- 1/2 cup crushed high-protein cookies or ladyfingers
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for topping
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, protein powder, espresso, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder until smooth and creamy.
- In a small glass or jar, layer half of the yogurt mixture, followed by a layer of crushed cookies. Repeat the layers with the remaining yogurt and cookies.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften.
- Before serving, dust with additional cocoa powder and top with chocolate shavings or chips if desired.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt and plant-based protein powder.
- You can prep this the night before for a quick high-protein breakfast or snack.
- Adjust sweetness to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 15mg