10 Amazing Pudding Recipes You Need to Try!

10 homemade pudding recipes to try today!

If your only experience of pudding is from a box, or those awful little plastic cups, I don’t blame you for not being interested. Pudding has overtones of nursery food, or something you’d be given when you don’t feel well. But if these pudding recipes are health food, bring it on!

pudding (noun) A sweet dessert, typically made with milk, eggs, sugar, and a thickening agent (such as flour, cornstarch, or gelatin), and baked, steamed, boiled, or chilled.

Pudding is one of those desserts that is so much more than the sum of its parts. Make it decadent, wholesome, non dairy, low carb, vegan…it all works! So even if you’ve never made homemade pudding before, give one of these easy pudding recipes a try. The first time you scrape a spoonful of warm pudding from the bottom of the pan, you’ll be hooked, promise.

classic butterscotch pudding

It’s really hard to go wrong with such a classic, and I perfected this pudding recipe so that it’s got a nice rich flavor, a perfect balance of salt, and the smoothest, creamiest texture. This is a fan favorite!

meyer lemon pudding

This was one of those why did it take me so long to think of this moments. At first a citrus pudding might seem weird, but the minute that first bite hits your tongue it’s like, I get it, this was meant to be. It’s silky, creamy, luxurious, and…lemon!

perfect chocolate pudding

If you’re a true chocolate lover, chocolate pudding might not strike you as the best thing to satisfy a serious chocolate craving. But trust me, this pudding is seriously rich in flavor and texture. It’s grown up enough to serve at a dinner party, but kids love it too! I like it equally warm and cold. Don’t forget the whipped cream!

peanut butter pudding

Pudding lover that I am, I made this peanut butter version on a whim, not entirely sure if it was going to work out or be kind of weird. Man, am I glad that I took a chance! It’s creamy, smooth, sweet, and full of peanut butter flavor, like a mini peanut butter pie in a cup!

kentucky bourbon vanilla bean pudding

If you think vanilla pudding is bland and uninteresting, meet Kentucky bourbon vanilla bean pudding. Real specks of vanilla bean, and smoky, rich Kentucky bourbon make this pudding unforgettable. This is one of those pudding recipes the big kids at the table.

coffee pudding

Do you love those sweet, creamy coffee drinks from your favorite coffee shop? Imagine those flavors in the form of a silky, spoon-able cup of pudding and you’ve got the idea here. It’s the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or after-dinner treat.

mint chocolate pudding pots

Ok, yes, the cute factor is pretty high here, but these little “pots” of mint chocolate pudding topped with crushed chocolate wafter “dirt” and little mint “seedlings” are also really really delicious! I love them for spring events and parties, but the chocolate-peppermint pudding is a great recipe for whenever that peppermint craving strikes.

winter spice vanilla pudding with brandied whipped cream

If I haven’t yet convinced you that pudding can be sophisticated, I hope you’ll give this reicpe a try. Silky vanilla pudding gets infused with whole winter spices (think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves), orange peel, and vanilla. Then we top it off with a homemade brandied whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.

Rice Pudding

Last but not least this might be my favorite of all. I love how the creamy vanilla pudding clings to each grain of perfectly cooked rice. When you catch this while still warm from the pan it’s stunningly delicious.

Indian Pudding

An irresistible baked pudding that might just be America’s oldest dessert!

Popular Pudding Recipes FAQs

1. What’s the difference between pudding and custard?

Both pudding and custard are creamy desserts, but there’s a key difference in their thickening agents:

• Pudding: Typically uses flour, cornstarch, or gelatin for thickening, resulting in a denser and firmer texture.
• Custard: Relies on egg yolks for thickening, leading to a smoother, creamier texture.

2. Can I substitute one thickening agent for another in a pudding recipe?

It depends on the specific recipe and desired texture. Substituting might not yield the same results.

• Flour/cornstarch: You can often swap one for the other in equal proportions, but the texture might vary slightly.
• Gelatin: Substituting with gelatin requires adjusting the proportions and using a specific technique for blooming the gelatin. Consult a reliable source for accurate substitution instructions.

3. How long does homemade pudding last?

Homemade pudding, like any milk-based dessert, is prone to spoilage. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days at most.

4. Can I freeze pudding?

Yes, you can freeze pudding! It’s a great way to make a big batch ahead of time.

• To freeze: Let the pudding cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep for 2-3 months.
• To thaw: Thaw the pudding in the refrigerator overnight, stirring occasionally until smooth.

5. What can I do with leftover pudding?

Don’t toss leftover pudding! You can get creative and use it in various ways:

• Layer it in parfaits: Combine pudding with fruits, granola, and yogurt for a layered dessert.
• Use it as a dip: Thicken leftover pudding and serve it with fruit slices or cookies for dipping.
• Fill pastries: Use it as a filling for croissants, puff pastry shells, or doughnuts.
• Mix it into smoothies: Add a scoop of pudding to your smoothie for extra creaminess and flavor.

6. What’s the deal with the skin that forms on top of pudding?

The skin forms due to evaporation and cooling. It’s safe to eat, but it might have a slightly different texture. To prevent it, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding after it cools slightly.

7. How can I make my pudding extra smooth and creamy?

• Whisk constantly: When whisking in the thickener and hot liquid, do it continuously to avoid lumps.
• Strain the mixture: If there are any small lumps after cooking, strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve for a smooth texture.
• Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for even blending.

8. Is pudding healthy?

Like most desserts, pudding can be enjoyed in moderation. While it can provide some calcium and protein from milk and eggs, it’s generally high in sugar and calories.

9. Can alternative milks be used to make pudding?

Opt for unsweetened milk alternatives with similar consistency to cow’s milk, like almond, oat, soy, or cashew milk. Coconut milk can also work, but its distinct flavor will be a factor in your pudding.

10. Can alternative sweeteners be used in pudding recipes?

Sugar substitutes like erythritol, allulose, or monk fruit can be used in a 1:1 ratio for recipes that call for granulated sugar. Using honey or maple syrup can be a good option for adding natural sweetness to your puddings.