10 Best Pudding Mixes in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)

Pros:

• Nine distinct flavors
• Sugar-free
• Fat-free before preparation
• 20 to 30 calories per serving
• Easy to prepare and chill with milk or a non-dairy substitute

Pros:

• Low-carb
• Accommodates a variety of diets, including keto and sugar-free
• Lactose-free for sensitive individuals
• Compatible with non-dairy milk alternatives

• Stevia extract may produce a bitter aftertaste 

This instant pudding mix is best for individuals who love natural vanilla flavors and need lactose-free or non-dairy options. You can prepare the mix with oat milk or other non-dairy alternatives and the pudding will still set in the fridge. The mix does not contain any fat per serving before preparation.

A handful of reviewers mentioned they did not like the aftertaste or texture of the pudding. Nonetheless, many buyers appreciated that this pudding helped them manage their calories and weight. They also liked that it did not contain any sugars and had a smooth, vanilla taste to it. Some reviewers also mentioned the pudding was quick and easy to make. 

Pros:

• Instant mix; just add milk or non-dairy substitute
  
• No sugar per serving
• 25 calories per serving
• Accommodates a variety of dietary restrictions including gluten-free, lactose-free and low-sugar
  
• Natural flavors 

• May have a bitter aftertaste according to reviewers
• Needs a mixer or handheld beater to prepare
  

This instant pudding mix is best for chocolate lovers who want to indulge and stick to a diet. Simply Delish uses zero-calorie sweeteners erythritol and stevia. The mix is also suitable for keto and gluten-free diets and is free from the eight major allergens. You can use almond, soy, or coconut milk instead of cow's milk if you prefer.

A few reviewers did not like the consistency and what they noticed as an aftertaste. However, this chocolate pudding mix was a go-to for various buyers, particularly those with dietary restrictions. Many hardly noticed that it was sugar-free thanks to its rich chocolate flavor. Some used this mix in smoothies and found it worked well. 

Pros:

• Lively citrus flavor 
• Use for pudding or lemon meringue pie
• Can be made in the microwave
• Uses water, not milk
  

Cons:

• Requires time for preparation and two hours chilling
  
• Need to add sugar and egg yolks
  

This cook-and-serve pudding mix is best for those who love the taste of tangy fruit. It's made only with natural flavors, so you can enjoy a refreshing citrus taste without any artificial aftertaste. However, the mix does require work and preparation time to get it ready to eat.  

Buyers used this mix as a base for their lemon meringue pie and were impressed with the delicious results. For a tangier kick, people suggested substituting water with some fresh lemon juice. 

Pros:

• Can prepare using water; no milk needed
  
• Refreshing coconut flavor
• Made in Hawaii

Cons:

• Needs to be boiled and cool down
  

This mix is for people who prefer tropical tastes and want to make authentic Hawaiian haupia squares. With a creamy texture and a light, refreshing flavor, this dessert is an excellent end to a meal or a fantastic quick snack. Just mix in some water, and you're good to go! Also, you can make a variety of desserts such as pudding pies. 

A few reviewers experienced difficulties with getting the mix to form into solid squares. However, various buyers thought this mix was essential for making authentic-tasting haupia. While the recipe only required water, reviewers suggested using coconut milk for extra creaminess or coconut water to make the texture and taste a bit more jelly-like. 

Pros:

• Classic, simple tapioca flavor
• No high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners
• No fat per serving before preparation

Cons:

• Requires stovetop cooking to prepare
• Not suitable for low or no sugar diets

This mix is best for those who prefer a blander, tapioca flavor. While you can customize your tapioca pudding with this mix, you will need to add skim milk if you want to keep it fat-free. However, this mix does make enough for an entire family and tapioca pudding enthusiasts who don't mind extra prep time.

A few reviewers weren't happy with the cooking directions or the way the pudding turned out. Many reviewers expressed their love for the taste of this pudding. They mentioned tapioca and the Jello-O brand as their favorites. Some even enjoyed the pudding as a warm treat soon after cooking the mix.  

Pros:

• Fun Oreo cookie flavor
• Smooth pudding with a bit of texture from the cookie bits
  
• Sets within five minutes

Cons:

• May not set with non-dairy milk alternatives

This Oreo instant pudding mix from Jell-O is best for cookie lovers. It contains bits of Oreo cookies to serve as a dessert by itself, or use it in recipes for pie or cheesecake. This mix doesn't take long to prepare and you'll have a chilled dessert in minutes.

Some reviewers were disappointed that the mix did not set with non-dairy milk alternatives. Yet, the majority of buyers loved the creamy texture and thought this pudding tasted excellent by itself or as an Oreo pie filling. They enjoyed the crumbled cookie pieces and flavors.  

Pros:

• Rich pistachio flavor
• Chunks of almond and pistachio
  
• Sets within five minutes

Cons:

• May not set with non-dairy milk alternatives

This pistachio instant pudding mix is a great flavor for individuals who prefer an indulgent nutty taste mixed with sweetness. While you can make this mix quickly, dairy or cow's milk is the best way to go. 

Some buyers didn't like the texture of the nuts. But an overwhelming majority of reviewers appreciated the flavor and mentioned it was one of their favorites. A few buyers stated they also used this pistachio pudding in cakes and pies. Or, they enjoyed the pudding as a spring or summer dessert with pineapple and whipped cream. 

Pros:

• Just add milk and stir
  
• Can be used as filling for banana cream pies
• Try mixing it in waffle or pancake batter
  

Cons:

• May not set with non-dairy milk alternatives

This instant pudding mix can work as chilled pudding in a bowl or as part of a banana cream pie. It's easy to prepare in less than 10 minutes. Try the classic serving method with sliced banana, vanilla wafer cookies, and whipped cream for a treat adults and kids alike will enjoy.

Some reviewers experienced problems getting the pudding mix to set with almond milk and other non-dairy alternatives. However, most buyers found the flavor to be amazing and used it as part of their famous family recipes. Others noted they had luck with getting the pudding to set with lactose-free and skim milk. 

Pros:

• Just add milk; sets in five minutes
  
• Rich butterscotch flavor pairs well with toppings
  

Cons:

• Using non-dairy milk alternatives may not work

You can mix in milk and chill this instant butterscotch pudding in the refrigerator for a quick dessert or sweet snack. It also works great in recipes like cookies. However, you will want to stick with cow's milk when preparing it.

While one reviewer said it came out grainy, many buyers appreciated the flavor. They enjoyed topping it with various things, from whipped cream to pretzels. Most reviewers also said they liked how the pudding only required milk to prepare. For some, it was the best pudding they had ever had.