If you're in the mood for dessert but don't want something that's difficult to make, pudding is your best bet! There are a ton of flavors to choose from, from classic vanilla and chocolate to tangy key lime and lemon. Plus, the wide variety of options means you can find a pudding for every diet, whether you're vegan or watching your sugar intake.
Among all the popular pudding mixes on the market, Jell-O's Sugar-Free Instant Pudding Sampler is our If you're curious about other pudding mixes on our 10 best instant pudding mixes list, keep reading! Also, for more information, check out our buying guide reviewed by a professional chef.
Quick List - Top Pudding Mix
Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!
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Table of Contents
If you need some extra help to make a decision, this buying guide will come in handy. Remember to take into consideration crucial factors such as the flavor of the mix, the ingredients, ease of preparation, and your dietary restrictions.
If you're after something more decadent, pistachio or chocolate pudding is rich and delicious. If you're a chocoholic, opt for a chocolate fudge flavor for more indulgence.
Fruity flavors can be good if you're looking for a taste that is more refreshing. Lemon, orange, or key lime pudding provides a tangy kick to surprise your taste buds, while banana is sweet and comforting. The flavor options are limitless, so follow your taste buds!
Instant pudding mixes are convenient. Most products simply need you to add some milk and stir. This type of pudding will usually set in about five minutes. However, some may require beating the milk in using an electric or handheld mixer. Some people comment that they find instant pudding gritty if not mixed very well.
Another type to consider is the cook-and-serve kind. Some products can be prepared with a microwave, and other mixes can be cooked on the stove. These still may not take much time to cook, usually boiling for a few minutes is all that's needed; but they will require time to cool down. Chilling in the refrigerator for an hour or two is often recommended.
Pudding mixes help you easily whip up a yummy dessert, but they might not taste natural if they use artificial additives. A mix containing only natural, basic ingredients, such as cornstarch, sugar, and natural flavors like vanilla extract or cocoa won't have an off-putting aftertaste.
You might also want to consider a certified organic mix. Organic products have been carefully inspected by a certification body and must meet stringent standards regarding manufacturing and safety. They don't contain artificial additives, so you know the taste will be natural.
If you have dietary restrictions, it's important to screen the ingredient list and "may contain" label to ensure that the mix doesn't contain anything that can trigger an allergic reaction or jeopardize your diet.
Pudding mixes might contain allergens like egg, milk, or soy. You should also keep in mind that even if a product is made without your allergens, it might still be cross-contaminated from being processed in a shared facility.
If you don't see any cross-contamination warnings on the packaging and want to be on the safe side, contact the manufacturer.
If you are trying to limit your sugar intake, you can still enjoy pudding! Some mixes are sugar-free and sweetened with zero-calorie sweeteners such as aspartame or stevia extract. These products won't raise your blood glucose levels and are generally safe for those who are following a low-sugar diet, including people with diabetes.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Amount | Flavor | Calories | Diet | Sugar Content | Gluten-Free | |||||
1 | Jell-O Vanilla Instant Pudding & Pie Filling Mix | ![]() | Sweet Simplicity, Guilt-Free Joy | 1.5 oz (24 Boxes) | Vanilla | 20 calories | Vegetarian | 0g | ||
2 | Jell-O Chocolate Pudding & Pie Filling Mix | ![]() | Classic Chocolate Pudding, Sugar Free | 1.3 oz (24 Boxes) | Chocolate | 30 calories | Vegetarian | 0g | ||
3 | Simple Mixes Natural Instant Pudding Variety Pack | ![]() | Simple Ingredients, Simply Delicious! | 3.8 oz (6 Packs) | Vanilla, Chocolate, Salted Caramel | 100 calories | Kosher | 18g | ||
4 | Simply Delish 70 Plus Vanilla Shake and Pudding Mix | ![]() | Best for Natural Vanilla Flavor | 1.7 oz | Vanilla | 20 calories | Vegan | 0g | ||
5 | Simply Delish Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix | ![]() | Plant-Based Chocolate Pudding | 1.7 oz (6 Pack) | Chocolate | 25 calories | Vegan | 0g | ||
6 | Garden Desserts Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix | ![]() | 10 Minute Vanilla Pudding | 4 oz (3 Pack) | Vanilla | 110 calories | Vegan | 20g | ||
7 | Nutmeg State Nutrition High Protein Instant Pudding Mix | ![]() | Protein Packed Pudding | 5.67 oz | Vanilla | 80 calories | unknown | 3g | ||
8 | Osem Instant Pudding Vanilla Flavor | ![]() | Vanilla Bliss in Just 5 Minutes | 2.8 oz (3 Pack) | Vanilla | 80 calories | unknown | 7g | ||
9 | Dove Dark Chocolate Rich Indulgent Pudding Mix and Pie Filling | ![]() | Silky Smooth, Pure Chocolate Bliss | 3.34 oz (12 Pack) | Chocolate | 80 calories | unknown | 13g | ||
10 | Dr. Oetker Vanilla Pudding – Original Pudding by Dr. Oetker | ![]() | Enjoy the Classic Creamy Flavor of Traditional Vanilla Pudding | 1.5 oz | Vanilla | 40 calories | 2g |
Flavor | Vanilla |
---|---|
Calories | 20 calories |
Jell-O Sugar-Free Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix offers the rich, creamy flavor of classic vanilla in a low-calorie, guilt-free treat. With 1/3 fewer calories than regular pudding, this versatile mix is perfect for enjoying as a quick dessert or enhancing your favorite recipes. Each box is individually sealed to ensure freshness, making it a pantry staple for those seeking indulgence without compromise. With 24 boxes in a pack, Jell-O makes it easy to share the joy of delicious, sugar-free vanilla goodness with family and friends.
Amount | 1.5 oz (24 Boxes) |
---|---|
Diet | Vegetarian |
Sugar Content | 0g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Chocolate |
---|---|
Calories | 30 calories |
Jell-O Sugar-Free Cook and Serve Chocolate Pudding Mix delivers the decadent taste of chocolate in a low-calorie, zero-sugar treat. With only 30 calories per serving—2/3 fewer than the regular version—this mix is a delightful choice for satisfying sweet cravings without compromise. Each individually sealed pouch ensures freshness and makes preparation easy, creating 3.5 half-cup servings per box.
Perfect as a stand-alone dessert or a versatile ingredient in sugar-free recipes, this pudding mix is simple to prepare with just two cups of fat-free milk. Enjoy it warm or chilled and indulge in the smooth, creamy texture without the added sugar. With 24 boxes in a pack, Jell-O makes it effortless to share chocolatey goodness anytime.
Amount | 1.3 oz (24 Boxes) |
---|---|
Diet | Vegetarian |
Sugar Content | 0g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Vanilla, Chocolate, Salted Caramel |
---|---|
Calories | 100 calories |
Simple Mixes Instant Pudding Mix offers a wholesome dessert experience with natural ingredients and vibrant colors derived from safe, nature-based sources. Naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free, gluten-free, and kosher, this mix is a treat everyone can enjoy. Each box makes four servings of delicious pudding or pie filling, ready in just ten minutes.
Versatile and easy to prepare, Simple Mixes works perfectly with dairy or non-dairy alternatives like soy or almond milk. Whisk, refrigerate, and enjoy a smooth, satisfying dessert that's as convenient as it is flavorful. With a variety of flavors in every pack, Simple Mixes ensures there's a delightful option for every taste.
Amount | 3.8 oz (6 Packs) |
---|---|
Diet | Kosher |
Sugar Content | 18g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Vanilla |
---|---|
Calories | 20 calories |
Pros:
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.
Amount | 1.7 oz |
---|---|
Diet | Vegan |
Sugar Content | 0g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Chocolate |
---|---|
Calories | 25 calories |
Simply Delish Chocolate Pudding offers a decadent dessert experience without compromise. Made with premium cocoa and natural ingredients, it’s sugar-free, gluten-free, and low-carb—sweetened only with stevia for a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for families, this plant-based treat is free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors, delivering pure, wholesome goodness in every bite.
Quick and easy to prepare, this instant pudding sets in just 3 minutes, making it an ideal snack or dessert option. Mix it with your favorite plant-based milk for a creamy, allergen-free delight that satisfies cravings and fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle.
Amount | 1.7 oz (6 Pack) |
---|---|
Diet | Vegan |
Sugar Content | 0g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Vanilla |
---|---|
Calories | 110 calories |
Gluten Free Palace Vanilla Pudding Mix delivers a creamy, all-natural dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion. This vegan instant pudding is free from gluten, dairy, eggs, corn, and artificial flavors or colors. With a smooth, rich texture and delightful vanilla flavor, it’s a treat everyone can enjoy. Certified kosher and made in the USA, it combines quality with convenience.
Ready in just 10 minutes, this pudding mix is incredibly versatile. Serve it as is, layer it with cookies and fruit for elegant parfaits, or use it to enhance your favorite cake or pie recipes. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dessert or letting kids take the lead, this mix makes indulgence simple and stress-free.
Amount | 4 oz (3 Pack) |
---|---|
Diet | Vegan |
Sugar Content | 20g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Vanilla |
---|---|
Calories | 80 calories |
Nutmeg State Nutrition Vanilla Protein Pudding Mix combines indulgence with nutrition for a dessert that satisfies cravings while supporting a healthy lifestyle. Each serving provides 15g of protein, just 80 calories, and only 2g of sugar, making it a guilt-free option for snacks or post-workout treats. With its creamy texture and delicious vanilla flavor, this pudding mix is perfect for those seeking a low-calorie, high-protein delight.
Conveniently packaged in seven single-serve pouches, this mix is easy to prepare—just add cold water, stir, and enjoy. With 1g of fat and 5g of carbs per serving, it’s ideal for bariatric diets, fitness goals, or anyone seeking a low-carb, high-protein treat that fuels energy and satisfaction throughout the day.
Amount | 5.67 oz |
---|---|
Diet | unknown |
Sugar Content | 3g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Vanilla |
---|---|
Calories | 80 calories |
Osem Instant Vanilla Pudding makes dessert preparation quick and delightful. This convenient pack of three 2.8-ounce sachets provides a smooth, creamy vanilla flavor that’s ready to enjoy in just minutes. Simply mix the contents with cold milk, whisk until dissolved, and let it set for 5 minutes—no cooking required. Perfect for busy days or impromptu dessert cravings, this pudding is sure to satisfy.
Each sachet yields four 1/2-cup servings, offering a sweet treat for the whole family. With its easy-to-follow directions and delectable taste, Osem Vanilla Pudding is a must-have pantry staple for effortless indulgence.
Amount | 2.8 oz (3 Pack) |
---|---|
Diet | unknown |
Sugar Content | 7g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Chocolate |
---|---|
Calories | 80 calories |
Dove Dark Chocolate Pudding Mix delivers an indulgent dessert experience with its irresistibly silky texture and rich, velvety dark chocolate flavor. Whether enjoyed as a standalone pudding, a luscious pie filling, or a key ingredient in your favorite dessert recipes, this mix brings the decadence of Dove chocolate to your table. Simply whisk with cold milk, refrigerate until set, and savor the luxurious taste.
Perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, this versatile pudding mix is kosher and ideal for any occasion, from festive gatherings to quiet moments of indulgence. The 12-pack of 3.34 oz boxes ensures you’re always ready to create a chocolate delight, with each box yielding four 1/2-cup servings.
Amount | 3.34 oz (12 Pack) |
---|---|
Diet | unknown |
Sugar Content | 13g |
Gluten-Free |
Flavor | Vanilla |
---|---|
Calories | 40 calories |
Amount | 1.5 oz |
---|---|
Diet | |
Sugar Content | 2g |
Gluten-Free |
There are various ways to make your pudding mix taste more special. Curious? Check out our tips!
Want to make your pudding mix taste homemade so that no one knows it's store-bought? You can do so by adding a few extra ingredients.
Let's talk about some potential additions that can enhance the flavor of your mix. Chopped nuts, fruits, or chocolate chips go well with many flavors and will make the texture of your pudding much more interesting. These additional ingredients will give your pudding more depth and complexity as well.
Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg are other great choices. They will take basic flavors, such as vanilla, to another level. However, be careful about putting in too much spice, as it might overpower the other flavors. If you want something fun, use sprinkles to add more color and sweetness to your pudding.
If you're hosting a party, alcohol-infused puddings are likely to be a hit! Some popular options include Irish cream, vodka, and Kahlua.
Another tip that will help you elevate your pudding mix is to substitute some of the required ingredients. Most products will ask for water or milk, but to make your pudding more creamy and indulgent, try evaporated milk, half-and-half, or even heavy cream.
If you can't consume dairy, coconut milk and coconut cream helps thicken your pudding mix. Plus, they bring a delicious tropical twist to the main flavor. You might also try other non-dairy alternatives, such as almond or oat milk.
Keep in mind that some non-dairy alternatives such as almond, soy, and rice milk have a thinner consistency than cow's milk. Completely substituting the required amount of cow's milk in the recipe with a non-dairy product might make your pudding less thick or slightly runny.
If you're using non-dairy milk, it's better only to use half the amount of milk stated in the instructions. Or, you might want to check reviewers' comments for some suggestions.
Want something rich and indulgent to satisfy your sweet tooth? We've got you covered. Check out our articles for more tasty treats!
No. 1: Jell-O|Vanilla Instant Pudding & Pie Filling Mix
No. 2: Jell-O|Chocolate Pudding & Pie Filling Mix
No. 3: Simple Mixes|Natural Instant Pudding Variety Pack
No. 4: Simply Delish|70 Plus Vanilla Shake and Pudding Mix
No. 5: Simply Delish|Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix
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