Banana Pudding Splits

All the theater of a banana split with a fraction of the indulgence. Banana slices go into goblets or dessert dishes, topped with a blended chocolate pudding-yogurt mixture, chopped pistachios, a cloud of whipped topping, and a fresh cherry on top. It looks like dessert. It eats like dessert.

The pudding gets blended with low-fat yogurt rather than made with whole milk, which cuts the fat significantly while keeping the chocolate cream texture. Blending the two together in a blender for about 90 seconds creates a smooth, mousse-like consistency that holds up when spooned over the banana.

Pistachios instead of the usual peanuts or walnuts give this version a more refined, slightly buttery crunch. Bing cherries on top are ideal when in season. Maraschino cherries work when they’re not.

Kitchen Tips

• Sprinkle the banana slices with lemon juice immediately after cutting. They oxidize quickly, especially once the lemon juice is skipped.
• Blend the yogurt first for 30 seconds before adding the pudding mix. This loosens the yogurt so the pudding incorporates evenly.
• Assemble just before serving. The banana will soften in the pudding if left to sit.

Variations

• Use vanilla pudding mix instead of chocolate for a more traditional banana split flavor profile.
• Add a layer of fresh strawberries alongside the banana for a full fruit split experience.