How many calories are in butterscotch pudding?

December 15, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, the calorie count in butterscotch pudding can vary dramatically, ranging from around 90 calories per serving for an instant mix prepared with low-fat milk to over 400 for a rich, homemade recipe. The exact number depends heavily on the ingredients and preparation method used.

Quick Summary

Calorie content for butterscotch pudding varies widely based on whether it's homemade, from a mix, or ready-to-eat. Key factors include the type of milk, amount of sugar, and added fats. Understanding these differences helps in managing dietary intake.

Key Points

Significant Calorie Variation: The number of calories in butterscotch pudding can range from approximately 90 to over 400 per serving, depending on the ingredients and preparation method.
Homemade vs. Instant Mix: Homemade pudding is typically higher in calories due to rich ingredients like whole milk, butter, and eggs, whereas instant mixes prepared with low-fat milk are significantly lighter.
Key Ingredients Matter: The type of milk (whole vs. skim), amount of sugar, and use of butter or egg yolks are the most significant factors influencing the final calorie count.
Portion Control is Key: Regardless of the recipe, controlling your serving size is one of the most effective ways to manage the calorie intake from butterscotch pudding.
Reducing Calories is Possible: Lower-calorie options can be achieved by using low-fat milk, reducing sugar, cutting down on butter, or choosing a sugar-free mix.

Calorie Breakdown by Pudding Type

The number of calories in a serving of butterscotch pudding is not a fixed figure. It changes based on the recipe's complexity and ingredients, from a quick-mix preparation to a decadent, scratch-made dessert. For instance, a small, pre-packaged snack cup may contain around 90 to 140 calories, while a one-cup serving of rich homemade pudding can easily exceed 400 calories. The primary determinants of calorie count are the type of milk (whole vs. skim), added sugar content, and the inclusion of butter and egg yolks. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone monitoring their caloric intake.

Homemade vs. Instant: A Caloric Comparison

Making butterscotch pudding from scratch offers the most control over ingredients, but it often results in a higher calorie count due to richer components like butter, egg yolks, and heavy cream. Conversely, instant pudding mixes generally have lower calories because they are typically prepared with low-fat milk and contain less fat overall. This difference is stark when comparing recipes side-by-side.

Ingredients That Impact Calories

Milk: Whole milk contributes more calories and fat than skim or low-fat milk. Using a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or soy milk can also alter the calorie count. For example, a low-fat milk pudding might be half the calories of one made with whole milk.
Sugar: The type and amount of sugar directly influences caloric content. Brown sugar, a staple in butterscotch, contains calories. Some recipes are particularly heavy-handed with sugar, significantly increasing the total count.
Butter and Eggs: Homemade recipes frequently call for butter and multiple egg yolks to create a rich, creamy texture. These ingredients are calorie-dense and are often omitted or replaced with lower-fat alternatives in instant mixes.
Serving Size: The most obvious factor is portion control. A standard serving is often considered half a cup, but serving sizes can vary wildly and are a major factor in overall calorie intake.

Comparing Different Types of Butterscotch Pudding


Pudding Type	Example Serving Size	Approx. Calories	Key Ingredients	Caloric Impact
Homemade Pudding	1 cup (approx. 240g)	350–450+	Whole milk, brown sugar, butter, egg yolks	High-calorie, rich ingredients
Instant Mix (Prepared)	1/2 cup (approx. 120g)	140–180	Mix, milk (usually low-fat)	Moderate-calorie, depends on milk type
Ready-to-Eat Cup	1 cup (approx. 99g)	90–120	Water, modified cornstarch, artificial flavors	Lower-calorie, often made with minimal fat
Vegan Pudding	1/2 cup (approx. 120g)	150–250	Plant-based milk, cornstarch, vegan butter	Varies based on milk and sweetener

Reducing Calories in Butterscotch Pudding

For those who love butterscotch pudding but want a healthier version, several modifications can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content. Opting for a low-calorie version doesn't mean sacrificing flavor entirely. Here are some strategies:

Substitute Ingredients: Use skim or low-fat milk instead of whole milk or heavy cream. Plant-based milks like almond or oat milk are also lower-calorie alternatives.
Control Sweeteners: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute. This will decrease overall calories from carbohydrates. Natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol can be used in some recipes.
Reduce Fat: In homemade recipes, you can often cut the amount of butter in half or replace it with a low-fat alternative. Some recipes can even be made without added butter altogether, relying on cornstarch and eggs for thickness.
Adjust Portion Sizes: A smaller serving size is the simplest way to reduce calorie intake. Enjoying a smaller, more indulgent portion can be more satisfying than a large one of a low-fat version.
Add Healthy Toppings: Instead of high-calorie toppings, consider fresh fruit, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a small dollop of low-fat whipped cream to enhance flavor without adding excessive calories.

Conclusion: The Calorie Range and Your Choice

Ultimately, there is no single answer to "how many calories are in butterscotch pudding?" The figure depends entirely on the preparation method and ingredients. Whether you prefer a decadent, full-fat homemade version or a lighter, store-bought instant mix, the calorie count is a function of your choices. By being mindful of your ingredients and portion sizes, you can indulge in this classic dessert while still staying aligned with your dietary goals. For those seeking the lowest calorie option, instant, fat-free mixes prepared with skim milk are the clear winner. For others, the occasional homemade treat offers a more flavorful, albeit higher-calorie, experience. Making informed decisions about your ingredients is key to enjoying butterscotch pudding responsibly.

Here is a guide to cooking healthier desserts for more ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

A typical one-cup serving of rich homemade butterscotch pudding can contain over 400 calories, while a half-cup serving of instant pudding prepared with low-fat milk may have around 90-180 calories.

Using whole milk or heavy cream in your pudding will result in a much higher calorie count compared to using skim milk, low-fat milk, or low-calorie plant-based alternatives like almond milk.

Yes, sugar-free instant pudding mixes contain fewer calories, as they replace traditional sugar with non-caloric sweeteners. However, the total calorie count will still depend on the type of milk you use for preparation.

A standard serving size is often considered half a cup (approximately 120 grams). However, pre-packaged snack cups and homemade servings can vary, so it is important to check packaging labels or measure portions accurately.

Yes, using plant-based milks like almond or oat milk can reduce the overall calorie count of butterscotch pudding, especially if you use a lower-calorie variety.

To make a healthier version, use skim milk, reduce the amount of brown sugar, and consider decreasing the amount of butter and egg yolks in the recipe. You can also add natural flavorings like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Yes, many ready-to-eat pudding cups are designed to be lower in calories, with some containing as little as 90 calories per serving. They typically use low-fat ingredients and artificial flavors to achieve this.