Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the classic comfort of banana pudding — the layers of sweet vanilla pudding, tender banana slices, and soft cookies create a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. However, traditional banana pudding is often high in sugar, fat, and calories, which can make it tough to fit into a Weight Watchers lifestyle.

That’s why these WW Banana Pudding Cups are a game-changer. They give you all the classic Southern-style banana pudding flavors in a lighter, lower SmartPoints form. Plus, they’re portioned in individual cups, making it easier to enjoy a sweet treat without going overboard.

This recipe is no-bake, simple, and made with just a few accessible ingredients, including sugar-free pudding, light whipped topping, low-fat milk, and ripe bananas. It’s perfect for parties, meal prep, or anytime you need a sweet fix that aligns with your health goals.


Why This Recipe Works for WW

One of the most important aspects of success on Weight Watchers is being able to enjoy foods you love without feeling deprived. These banana pudding cups are the perfect solution for that. By using zero-point bananas, sugar-free instant pudding, and light whipped topping, this dessert stays low in points while remaining satisfying and full of flavor.

Additionally, portioning the pudding into individual servings helps with portion control, another key factor in maintaining progress. Each cup contains about 100–120 calories, and most versions come in at only 2–3 WW SmartPoints per serving depending on the milk and cookies used.


Ingredients

Makes: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1 pudding cup

  • 1 package (1 oz or 28g) sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 2 cups fat-free or low-fat milk (unsweetened almond milk optional, but adjust for thickness)
  • 2 medium ripe bananas, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup light whipped topping (such as Cool Whip Light or Truwhip Lite)
  • 12 reduced-fat vanilla wafers (or sugar-free wafers, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added depth of flavor)
  • Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Optional Garnishes

  • Light dusting of cinnamon
  • Mini banana slices on top
  • Crushed vanilla wafer crumbs
  • Sugar-free caramel drizzle

Tools & Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or electric hand mixer
  • Measuring cups
  • Small parfait cups or mason jars
  • Spatula or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

Start by pouring 2 cups of fat-free milk into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Gradually add the sugar-free vanilla pudding mix while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. Set aside to let it fully set — it will firm up more as it rests.

Note: If using almond milk, the pudding may not thicken as much unless you use a thickener or pudding mix specifically compatible with non-dairy milk.

Step 2: Fold in Whipped Topping

Once the pudding has set, gently fold in 1 cup of light whipped topping using a spatula. Use soft folding motions to maintain the fluffy texture of the whipped topping. This step lightens the pudding and gives it that classic, creamy banana pudding texture.

Step 3: Add Vanilla & Salt

For an enhanced flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a tiny pinch of salt. These additions are optional but highly recommended. They add balance to the sweetness and depth to the overall taste.

Step 4: Slice the Bananas

Peel and thinly slice 2 medium bananas. Keep slices uniform for even layering in each cup. To prevent browning, you can lightly coat them with lemon juice, but this may slightly affect the flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Pudding Cups

Lay out 6 small jars, dessert cups, or ramekins. Start by placing 1 vanilla wafer at the bottom of each cup. Follow with a few slices of banana, then spoon in a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat with more banana slices and another dollop of pudding.

Top each cup with another wafer and a final swirl of whipped topping if desired.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover each cup with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This resting time allows the wafers to soften slightly and the flavors to meld, giving that authentic banana pudding experience.


Nutrition Information (Per Pudding Cup)

  • Calories: 110
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 2.5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 6g (mostly from banana)
  • WW SmartPoints:
    • Blue/Green/Purple: 2–3 SmartPoints per cup
      (using fat-free milk and reduced-fat wafers; SmartPoints may vary slightly by brand)

Storage & Shelf Life

These banana pudding cups are best enjoyed within 2–3 days of preparation. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap. The bananas may begin to brown slightly after day two, so they’re best eaten fresh.

If you’re prepping ahead for a party, you can prep the pudding and whipped mixture separately and assemble the cups just before serving for best texture and appearance.


Tips for Success

  1. Use ripe but firm bananas – avoid overly soft ones which can turn mushy in the cups.
  2. Let it chill long enough – this improves the flavor and helps the cookies soften slightly.
  3. Don’t overmix the whipped topping – keep it light and fluffy for the best texture.
  4. Adjust sweetness – if your bananas are under-ripe, a few drops of stevia or monk fruit can help.
  5. Layer carefully – for a clean presentation, use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped to pipe the pudding into cups.

Flavor Variations

  • Chocolate Banana Cups: Use sugar-free chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
  • Peanut Butter Banana Pudding: Add 1 tablespoon PB2 (powdered peanut butter) into the pudding mix.
  • Tropical Banana Cups: Add a layer of crushed pineapple (zero points on some plans) between the layers.
  • Coconut Banana Cups: Use coconut-flavored pudding or a sprinkle of unsweetened coconut flakes on top.

Serving Suggestions

  • Top with sugar-free whipped cream and a banana slice before serving
  • Serve with a spoonful of fat-free Greek yogurt for extra protein
  • Pair with a warm herbal tea or iced coffee for a balanced snack

These pudding cups make for great portion-controlled desserts at parties, meal preps, brunches, or even weekday dinners.


Benefits for WW Members

This recipe is ideal for those on WW Blue, Green, or Purple plans, as it makes use of zero-point bananas, low-fat dairy, and sugar-free ingredients that contribute flavor and satisfaction without adding excess points.

It also addresses:

  • Cravings for classic desserts
  • The need for convenient portioning
  • Balanced macros that align with WW-friendly goals

You won’t miss the high-fat, high-calorie versions with how satisfying these lightened-up cups are.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use unsweetened almond or cashew milk and a non-dairy whipped topping. Note that some pudding mixes don’t thicken with almond milk unless heated.

Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the wafers with certified gluten-free vanilla cookies or omit entirely for a pudding-only dessert.

Q: Can I make this in a large dish instead of individual cups?
Yes! Use an 8×8-inch baking dish and layer the ingredients like a trifle for a family-style dessert.


Final Thoughts

These WW Banana Pudding Cups deliver the creamy, nostalgic flavor of a Southern favorite — but in a smart, health-conscious package. They’re easy to make, perfectly portioned, and highly customizable, making them a go-to dessert or snack for anyone following the Weight Watchers plan.

With only 2–3 SmartPoints per serving, they’re a dessert you can enjoy any day of the week, completely guilt-free. Whether you’re meal prepping or celebrating, these pudding cups are a sweet way to stay on track.