Weight Watchers-Friendly Caramel Banana Pudding Cups

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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.