These pudding recipes cover a little bit of everything, from Southern classics to creamy chocolate treats and modern chia or rice-based versions. Whether baked, stirred on the stove, or chilled in the fridge, each one brings a comforting texture and big flavor. There are warm holiday spiced options, fruity spins, and indulgent chocolate varieties to fit whatever you’re in the mood for. These are the kinds of desserts or breakfasts that always feel cozy and satisfying.

Southern Banana Pudding

Southern Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Layers of vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and Nilla wafers come together in this no-bake classic. The cookies soften as it chills, blending into the creamy filling. Topped with whipped cream or meringue, it’s a staple at many Southern tables. Chill for a few hours to let the flavors meld.
Get the Recipe: Southern Banana Pudding

Cream Cheese Banana Pudding

Cream Cheese Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This twist adds cream cheese to the pudding layer for extra richness. The texture turns silkier while still holding the banana and wafer layers. It’s slightly tangy and ultra smooth. A little whipped topping on top brings it all together.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Banana Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Soft cubes of bread soak up a pumpkin custard spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Baked until golden, the center stays soft and warm. Serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce. Great for fall gatherings or cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Gingerbread Pudding

Gingerbread Pudding. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This holiday dessert brings warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves into a soft, cakey pudding. Baked until just set, the top may be firm while the center stays gooey. It’s rich, spiced, and perfect for winter. A little whipped cream balances the heat.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Pudding

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

Two jars of chocolate pudding with raspberries and almonds.
Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

Chia seeds and cocoa powder soak together into a rich, spoonable pudding. The texture is thick and a bit chewy. It’s great for breakfast or dessert. Add sliced bananas or a drizzle of almond butter to finish.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding

Four jars of chocolate pudding with peanut butter and chocolate chips.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This combo of chocolate and peanut butter creates a thick, dreamy dessert. Cooked on the stovetop, it firms up as it chills. The flavors are bold and nostalgic. Top with crushed peanuts or chocolate chips for crunch.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding

Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Image shows a head on close up shot of a slice of Apple Pie Bread Pudding topped with whipped cream.
Apple Pie Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chunks of bread are baked with apple slices, cinnamon, and a custard base. The apples soften while the edges of the bread turn golden and crisp. It tastes like apple pie with a custard twist. Serve warm with a drizzle of glaze or ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Bread Pudding

Chai Rice Pudding

A bowl of creamy chai rice pudding topped with fresh blueberries.
Chai Rice Pudding. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

Rice simmers in spiced milk infused with chai tea for a warm, aromatic dessert. The grains get soft and the flavor gets deeper as it rests. It’s slightly sweet with hints of cinnamon and cardamom. Serve warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Chai Rice Pudding

Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Chocolate avocado pudding in glass with spoon.
Chocolate Avocado Pudding. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Blended avocado gives this pudding a smooth, creamy base without dairy. Cocoa powder and sweetener balance the flavor. It’s thick, chocolatey, and surprisingly rich. Chill before serving to let the texture set fully.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Donut Bread Pudding

Donut bread pudding on a plate and in a baking dish.
Donut Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Leftover donuts get soaked in custard and baked into a rich dessert. The glaze from the donuts adds sweetness and depth. It bakes up gooey inside with a crisp top. Serve with powdered sugar or a simple icing drizzle.
Get the Recipe: Donut Bread Pudding

Sticky Toffee Pudding

A plate of sticky toffee pudding cakes with caramel sauce.
Sticky Toffee Pudding. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This British classic is made with dates and brown sugar for a deep, rich flavor. Once baked, it’s topped with a warm toffee sauce that soaks in. Each bite is moist and sweet. It’s best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Toffee Pudding

Orange Creamsicle Rice Pudding

Orange Creamsicle Rice Pudding. Photo credit: The Slow Roasted Italian.

Creamy rice pudding gets a citrusy upgrade with orange zest and a hint of vanilla. It’s bright, sweet, and lightly nostalgic. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert. A sprinkle of orange peel on top adds color and aroma.
Get the Recipe: Orange Creamsicle Rice Pudding

Blueberry Chia Pudding

Blueberry Chia Pudding. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A simple mix of chia seeds, milk, and blueberries sets into a thick, spoonable pudding. The berries add natural sweetness and a bit of tartness. You can blend or leave the berries whole. Chill before serving for best texture.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Chia Pudding

Jiffy Corn Pudding

Top down shot of jiffy corn pudding.
Jiffy Corn Pudding. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

This version uses Jiffy cornbread mix for a simple, sweet base. Mixed with creamed corn, eggs, and butter, it bakes into a soft, spoonable dish. It’s quick to prep and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve warm with savory meals.
Get the Recipe: Jiffy Corn Pudding

Chai Latte Chia Pudding

Chai latte chia pudding with pecans on top.
Chai Latte Chia Pudding. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This no-cook pudding blends chia seeds with spiced chai milk and sits overnight to thicken. It’s creamy with a subtle spice and chewy texture. You can top it with fruit or nuts for added flavor. Make a batch ahead for easy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Chai Latte Chia Pudding

Best Southern Corn Pudding

A baked corn casserole with chopped peppers and herbs is presented in a white oval dish on a wooden surface, with a patterned cloth nearby.
Best Southern Corn Pudding. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Sweet corn kernels bake into a soft custard-style dish with a golden top. It’s both savory and sweet, often served as a side. The texture is smooth with bits of corn throughout. Ideal for holidays or big family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Best Southern Corn Pudding

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

Read More About Me

Follow Lucy on social media:

Posted in:

You May Also Like:

Sign up with your email address to receive a 5-day series of Southern Cooking Secrets, followed by weekly emails with recipes and tips. We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *