Pudding isn’t just one thing, it’s a whole world of textures, layers, and rich flavors that range from classic to completely unexpected. Some are baked into warm, custardy bread puddings, while others are stirred together and chilled until thick and creamy. You’ve got the old-school banana pudding with vanilla wafers, and right next to it, there’s chia pudding packed with fruit or chocolate. There are holiday-ready versions made with panettone or donuts, and simple recipes that only need a few ingredients to come together. Whether you’re reaching for something nostalgic, trying out new textures, or just want a no-fuss dessert that doesn’t need an oven, this list covers it all.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding
This spiced dessert has the feel of a warm fall night in every bite. Cubes of bread soak up pumpkin custard and bake until golden and soft. It’s often topped with whipped cream or caramel sauce. Serve it warm and let the spices do their thing.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bread Pudding
Cream Cheese Banana Pudding
Cream cheese gives this version a tangy, smooth richness that sets it apart. The layers of bananas and cookies stay classic, but the texture is creamier and more filling. It chills beautifully and gets better as it sits. A great make-ahead option for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Banana Pudding
Grandma’s Corn Pudding
This one walks the line between sweet and savory with a custardy center. It’s made with whole kernels and creamed corn baked into a soft, spoonable side. A familiar dish at many holiday tables. It holds a simple charm that doesn’t need dressing up.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Corn Pudding
Southern Banana Pudding
The classic version that’s all about creamy layers, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers. Topped with either meringue or whipped cream, it’s cold, soft, and nostalgic. The cookies soften just enough to meld into the custard. It’s the kind of dessert people ask for by name.
Get the Recipe: Southern Banana Pudding
3-Ingredient Banana Pudding
This shortcut recipe keeps it simple with just bananas, pudding mix, and cookies. There’s no cooking involved, and it comes together in minutes. Perfect when you want something sweet without a lot of work. Chill it until the flavors blend and serve cold.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Banana Pudding
Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Ripe avocados make this pudding thick and silky without needing cream. Cocoa powder and a bit of sweetener round it out. It’s smooth, rich, and you’d never guess the main ingredient. A blender does most of the work.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Almond Croissant Bread Pudding
Flaky croissants and almond filling make this feel more like a fancy bakery dessert. The layers bake into a custard with crisp, buttery edges. Slivered almonds on top give it texture. Best served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Get the Recipe: Almond Croissant Bread Pudding
Layered Strawberry Chia Pudding
Fresh strawberries and chia pudding stack up in layers that look as good as they taste. The fruit adds brightness to the mild base. Each spoonful has texture from the seeds and a sweet burst from the berries. Great chilled in small jars or cups.
Get the Recipe: Layered Strawberry Chia Pudding
Blueberry Chia Pudding
This fruity pudding blends blueberries into the mix for a burst of flavor and color. It’s lightly sweet, chilled, and thickened with chia seeds. Great on its own or topped with more fruit. Comes together with just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Chia Pudding
Ginger Milk Pudding Recipe
This old-school dessert uses fresh ginger to curdle hot milk into a soft, spoonable pudding. It’s light and subtly spiced, with a hint of warmth. No gelatin or eggs needed. Just three ingredients and some gentle timing.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Milk Pudding Recipe
Classic Butterscotch Pudding
Rich, creamy, and deeply caramelized, this pudding is made with brown sugar and butter. It thickens into a smooth, golden dessert that’s hard to put down. Served chilled, it has an old-fashioned feel. A dollop of whipped cream on top finishes it off.
Get the Recipe: Classic Butterscotch Pudding
No-Bake Cheesecake Pudding
This one mixes the flavor of cheesecake with the ease of pudding. It’s creamy, tangy, and can be layered with fruit or graham cracker crumbs. No oven needed and it chills in the fridge until firm. A fast way to get that cheesecake fix.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Cheesecake Pudding
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding
Chocolate and peanut butter come together in a smooth, rich blend. It’s like eating a Reese’s cup with a spoon. Best served cold, with a bit of crunch on top. Simple, fast, and deeply satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding
Key Lime Chia Pudding
Tart key lime juice brightens up the creamy base of this chia pudding. It’s refreshing and zesty with a tropical edge. Chilled in the fridge, it thickens up nicely. Tastes like pie filling but with way less effort.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Chia Pudding
