Core Ingredients
- Cherries (fresh or frozen)
These provide natural sweetness, color, antioxidants, and flavor depth. Frozen cherries work exceptionally well and release juice as they cook, which improves texture. - Milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
This creates the pudding base. Dairy milk adds extra protein and creaminess. Unsweetened soy milk is the best non-dairy option for protein content. - Greek yogurt or skyr
This is the main protein source. It thickens the pudding naturally while adding tangy balance. - Protein powder (optional but recommended)
This boosts protein significantly. Vanilla or unflavored works best. - Cornstarch or tapioca starch
This is the thickening agent. It gives the pudding structure without heaviness. - Sweetener of choice
Honey, maple syrup, date syrup, or a zero-calorie sweetener all work. - Vanilla extract
Rounds out the cherry flavor and adds warmth. - Salt (tiny amount)
Enhances sweetness and prevents flat flavor.
Full Ingredient List (1 Large Serving or 2 Medium)
Fruit Base
- 1 ½ cups cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons water
Pudding Base
- 1 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened soy preferred)
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt or skyr
- 1 scoop protein powder (about 25–30 g protein)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca starch
- 2–3 tablespoons sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 small pinch of salt
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Layer
- Place the cherries and water into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The cherries should soften, release juice, and become slightly jam-like.
- If you prefer a smooth pudding, blend the cherries fully.
- If you like texture, mash lightly and leave small cherry pieces.
Remove from heat and set aside. Let it cool slightly.
This step concentrates the cherry flavor and prevents watery pudding later.
Step 2: Mix the Cold Pudding Base
This step prevents lumps and ensures smooth texture.
- In a bowl, add the milk and cornstarch.
- Whisk thoroughly until the starch is completely dissolved.
- Add protein powder and whisk again until smooth.
- Stir in sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt.
Do not add yogurt yet. Heating yogurt directly can cause curdling.
Step 3: Cook the Pudding Base
- Pour the milk mixture into a clean saucepan.
- Place over medium-low heat.
- Stir constantly with a silicone spatula or whisk.
- After 4–6 minutes, the mixture will begin to thicken.
- Once it coats the back of a spoon, remove from heat.
Do not boil aggressively. Gentle heat ensures silkiness.
Step 4: Add Yogurt for Protein and Creaminess
- Allow the hot pudding base to cool for 2–3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, loosen the yogurt by stirring it briefly.
- Slowly add a few spoonfuls of warm pudding into the yogurt.
- Stir well to temper the yogurt.
- Add the yogurt mixture back into the saucepan.
- Stir gently until fully combined.
This method keeps the pudding smooth and prevents separation.
Step 5: Combine with Cherry Base
You have two options depending on presentation preference.
Option A: Fully Mixed Cherry Pudding
- Pour cherry mixture into the pudding base.
- Stir until evenly pink and smooth.
Option B: Layered Cherry Pudding
- Keep cherry mixture separate.
- Layer cherry and pudding in jars or bowls.
Both taste excellent. Layered looks more elegant.
Step 6: Chill and Set
- Transfer pudding to a container or serving bowls.
- Cover directly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent skin formation.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- The pudding will thicken further as it chills.
It can also be eaten warm, but chilled texture is more dessert-like.
Texture Adjustments
If too thick:
- Stir in a few tablespoons of milk after chilling.
If too thin:
- Reheat gently and add an extra teaspoon of starch dissolved in milk.
Protein Content Estimate
Approximate protein per large serving:
- Greek yogurt: 15–18 g
- Protein powder: 25–30 g
- Milk: 8–10 g (dairy or soy)
Total: 45–55 g protein
Flavor Variations
- Add almond extract for cherry-almond flavor
- Add cocoa powder for chocolate cherry pudding
- Swirl in cottage cheese blended smooth for even more protein
- Add lemon zest for brightness
- Add cinnamon or cardamom for warmth
Storage
- Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Texture improves after overnight chilling
- Not ideal for freezing due to yogurt content
