Weight Watchers-Friendly Caramel Banana Pudding Cups 🍌🍮
Ingredients:
Points: 3 points (based on WW Blue Plan; check your current plan for accuracy)

For the Pudding:

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk for a creamier texture)
  • 1 cup fat-free half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup sugar substitute (like Swerve or Stevia)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sugar substitute (like Swerve)
  • 2 tablespoons light butter (like Land O’Lakes Light Butter)
  • 1/4 cup fat-free half-and-half
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Assembly:

  • 3 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 cup crushed reduced-fat vanilla wafer cookies (or graham crackers)
  • Fat-free whipped topping (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar substitute, stirring constantly until it becomes a golden caramel color.
    • Carefully add the light butter and stir until melted and combined.
    • Slowly pour in the fat-free half-and-half while stirring (the mixture will bubble up). Continue to stir until smooth.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the salt. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature.
  2. Prepare the Pudding:
    • In a medium saucepan, whisk together the unsweetened almond milk, fat-free half-and-half, sugar substitute, cornstarch, and salt.
    • Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it starts to steam and thicken.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
    • Return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and just starts to boil.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the pudding to cool slightly.
  3. Assemble the Caramel Banana Pudding Cups:
    • In serving cups or bowls, layer the crushed reduced-fat vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom.
    • Add a layer of the banana pudding over the cookies.
    • Drizzle some of the caramel sauce over the pudding.
    • Add a layer of banana slices.
    • Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, finishing with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
  4. Top and Serve:
    • If desired, top with fat-free whipped topping and a final drizzle of caramel sauce.
    • Chill the cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Enjoy:
    • Serve chilled and enjoy this lighter version of a creamy, caramel-infused banana pudding!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes + chilling

Servings: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Fat: 3g

Tips:

  • Lower the Points: Using sugar substitutes, light butter, and fat-free half-and-half significantly lowers the points while still delivering the caramel flavor.
  • Portion Control: Make smaller cups for a lighter treat that is still satisfying.
  • Boost Fiber: Use whole wheat graham crackers for more fiber and crunch.

Benefits:

  • Low in Points: This recipe is designed to keep the points low, making it a Weight Watchers-friendly dessert option.
  • Rich Flavor without the Guilt: By substituting high-calorie ingredients, you get all the creamy and caramel goodness without the extra points.
  • Satisfying Sweet Cravings: This dessert is perfect for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat without breaking their points budget.

These Weight Watchers-friendly Caramel Banana Pudding Cups let you enjoy a rich, decadent dessert without the guilt. Enjoy this delicious, creamy treat with fewer points!