18 Creamy Pudding Dessert Recipes for Every Occasion

recipesforlife

April 4, 2025

Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 delicious and creamy pudding dessert recipes, perfect for any occasion. From classic vanilla and decadent chocolate to unique matcha green tea and pistachio flavors, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying treat or an impressive show-stopper for your next dinner party, our pudding desserts are sure to satisfy. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy puddings and explore the endless possibilities of flavor combinations and toppings.

Classic Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Berries

Classic Vanilla Pudding with Fresh Berries
This timeless dessert combines creamy vanilla pudding with sweet and tangy fresh berries, perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday indulgence. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delightful treat in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh berries of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. If desired, whisk in heavy cream for an extra creamy texture.
6. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Top with fresh berries and serve chilled.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Decadent Chocolate Pudding with Whipped Cream

Decadent Chocolate Pudding with Whipped Cream
Rich and creamy chocolate pudding topped with a dollop of whipped cream – the perfect dessert for any occasion!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg yolks. Temper the cream mixture by slowly pouring it into the chocolate mixture, whisking continuously.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before topping with whipped cream.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
This creamy banana pudding recipe is a timeless Southern treat that combines ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a silky pudding. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a comforting dessert.

Ingredients:

– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 Vanilla Wafers, crushed

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract.
4. Layer pudding with sliced bananas and crushed Vanilla Wafers in individual serving cups or a large bowl.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None, as this recipe requires refrigeration.

Butterscotch Pudding with Caramel Drizzle

Butterscotch Pudding with Caramel Drizzle
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and creamy butterscotch pudding, topped with a velvety caramel drizzle. Perfect for a special treat or dessert.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butterscotch chips (such as Ghirardelli)
– Caramel sauce, for drizzling

Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and butter until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Let the pudding cool to room temperature.
5. Melt butterscotch chips in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pudding just before serving.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Lemon Pudding with Blueberry Compote

Lemon Pudding with Blueberry Compote
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing Lemon Pudding, paired with a sweet and tangy Blueberry Compote. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a burst of citrus flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Pudding:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Blueberry Compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, egg yolks, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or ramekins.
5. For the compote, combine blueberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook until berries have broken down and mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes.
6. Serve pudding chilled, topped with warm Blueberry Compote.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pumpkin Spice Pudding with Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Pumpkin Spice Pudding with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Warm up with this autumnal dessert featuring the comforting flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– Whipped cream and additional cinnamon for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree.
5. Strain into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and additional cinnamon if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Matcha Green Tea Pudding with Honey Drizzle

Matcha Green Tea Pudding with Honey Drizzle
Experience the refreshing flavor of Japan’s iconic green tea in a creamy and sweet pudding, perfectly balanced by a drizzle of pure honey.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in matcha powder. Let it steep for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Whisk in egg yolks until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with honey.

Cooking Time: None required! This pudding is best served chilled.

Enjoy your Matcha Green Tea Pudding with Honey Drizzle!

Tiramisu Pudding with Coffee Soaked Ladyfingers

Tiramisu Pudding with Coffee Soaked Ladyfingers
A creamy and rich dessert that combines the classic Italian flavors of tiramisu with a pudding twist.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Dip each ladyfinger into the brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
5. In individual serving cups or ramekins, create a layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers.
6. Pour the cooled pudding mixture over the ladyfingers.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking time only)

Chia Seed Pudding with Coconut Milk

Chia Seed Pudding with Coconut Milk
This recipe is a simple and healthy way to incorporate chia seeds into your diet, with the added creaminess of coconut milk. Perfect as a snack or breakfast on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and coconut milk. Stir until the chia seeds are well coated.
2. Add honey or maple syrup if desired, along with a pinch of salt. Mix until combined.
3. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. After the chia seed pudding has chilled, give it a good stir to redistribute the chia seeds. Serve in individual cups or containers.

Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Pudding

Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Pudding
This rich and creamy pudding combines the flavors of cheesecake with the sweetness of raspberries, topped with a swirl of tangy jam. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup raspberry jam
– Fresh raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted.
4. Let cool slightly, then whisk in cream cheese until smooth.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Dollop with confectioners’ sugar and raspberry jam, creating a swirl design.
7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Peanut Butter Pudding with Chocolate Shavings

Peanut Butter Pudding with Chocolate Shavings
Experience the perfect blend of nutty goodness and velvety texture in this peanut butter pudding, elevated by the addition of decadent chocolate shavings.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Chocolate shavings (about 1 ounce)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, peanut butter, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Whisk in heavy cream until smooth.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle with chocolate shavings.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Oreo Cookie Pudding with Crushed Cookies

Oreo Cookie Pudding with Crushed Cookies
A creamy and indulgent dessert that combines the classic flavors of Oreo cookies with a rich pudding.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 Oreo cookies, crushed
– Whipped cream and additional crushed Oreos for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in crushed Oreos.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled.
7. Top with whipped cream and additional crushed Oreos, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Caramel Apple Pudding with Cinnamon Streusel

Caramel Apple Pudding with Cinnamon Streusel
This autumn-inspired dessert combines the comfort of warm pudding with the crunch of cinnamon streusel, all infused with the sweetness of caramel apples. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.

Ingredients:

For the pudding:

– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs

For the streusel:

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the caramel apples:

– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Top with streusel (see below) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

To make the streusel:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add cold butter; use pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Sprinkle over pudding before baking.

Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

Mango Coconut Pudding with Toasted Coconut Flakes

Mango Coconut Pudding with Toasted Coconut Flakes
A creamy and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the richness of coconut, topped with a crunchy toasted coconut flake topping.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish (see note)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Add diced mango and honey to the coconut mixture. Stir until combined.
5. Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Toasted Coconut Flakes:

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread unsweetened shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned. Let cool before using as garnish.

Pistachio Pudding with Rosewater Syrup

Pistachio Pudding with Rosewater Syrup
This creamy pistachio pudding gets a romantic twist with the addition of fragrant rosewater syrup, perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert option.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pistachio meal
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Rosewater syrup (see below)

Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pistachio meal and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Drizzle with Rosewater Syrup (see below) and refrigerate until chilled.

Rosewater Syrup:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons rosewater

Combine sugar, water, and rosewater in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (pudding) + 5 minutes (syrup)

Black Forest Pudding with Cherry Topping

Black Forest Pudding with Cherry Topping
A classic German dessert, Black Forest pudding is a rich and decadent treat that combines the flavors of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. This recipe brings together the iconic elements of this beloved dessert in a simple and straightforward way.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped (optional)
– Whipped cream, for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cherry preserves. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Top pudding with whipped cream and chopped cherries (if using).
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)

Salted Caramel Pudding with Pretzel Crunch

Salted Caramel Pudding with Pretzel Crunch
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy salted caramel pudding topped with a crunchy pretzel crust. Perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup pretzel rods, crushed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, vanilla extract, and crushed pretzels.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the puddings are set and lightly puffed.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Strawberry Shortcake Pudding with Fresh Cream

Strawberry Shortcake Pudding with Fresh Cream
Experience the sweet combination of juicy strawberries, creamy pudding, and whipped cream in this refreshing dessert recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup strawberry puree or jam
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
3. Let the pudding cool to room temperature.
4. Fold in strawberry puree or jam until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
7. Serve chilled pudding topped with whipped cream and fresh sliced strawberries.

Cooking Time: None (chilled dessert)

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy pudding desserts! This collection of 18 recipes offers something for every occasion, from classic vanilla with fresh berries to decadent chocolate with whipped cream. Other highlights include banana pudding with vanilla wafers, butterscotch with caramel drizzle, and matcha green tea with honey drizzle. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fruity or rich and indulgent, these puddings are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From birthdays to holidays, and even everyday treats, this variety of recipes has got you covered.

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