Is Pillsbury Zero sugar good? A Comprehensive Review

November 29, 2025 •

3 min read

Many consumers are turning to sugar-free alternatives, and Pillsbury Zero sugar products are often described as having a surprisingly good taste and moist texture, similar to their traditional counterparts. The real question, however, is whether Pillsbury Zero sugar is truly a healthy and good choice overall, especially when considering the ingredients and potential side effects.

Quick Summary

An evaluation of Pillsbury Zero Sugar products, examining consumer feedback on taste and texture, clarifying nutritional details, and detailing potential digestive side effects caused by sugar alcohols.

Key Points

Good Taste: Many reviewers find the taste and texture surprisingly similar to regular, sugary Pillsbury mixes.
Maltitol Concerns: The use of sugar alcohol maltitol can cause significant digestive distress and a laxative effect if overconsumed.
Not Low-Calorie: Despite being zero sugar, these are not considered low-calorie foods and still contain carbohydrates from sources like enriched flour.
Diabetic Caution: Individuals managing blood sugar must be aware that maltitol can still impact glucose levels, so it is not a free-for-all treat.
Individual Aftertaste: Some consumers report an artificial or greasy aftertaste, especially in the frostings, which varies by individual sensitivity.
Processed Ingredients: The products are still highly processed and contain a variety of artificial ingredients, which may not appeal to those seeking "clean" options.

Taste and Texture: A Sweet Surprise for Many

When assessing whether Pillsbury Zero sugar is good, the immediate consumer feedback on taste and texture is overwhelmingly positive. The cake and brownie mixes, in particular, are frequently praised for their moist, fluffy results that rival those made with real sugar. Many reviewers express genuine surprise that they can't detect a difference between the zero-sugar and traditional versions, noting the absence of an artificial aftertaste. This is a major win for those seeking to reduce their sugar intake without compromising on flavor.

Flavor and Aftertaste Considerations

However, not every palate finds the experience perfect. While many praise the taste, some consumers report an unpleasant or greasy aftertaste, especially with the frostings. The perception of an aftertaste often depends on individual sensitivity to artificial sweeteners. The products are sweetened with a combination of non-nutritive sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, alongside maltitol, a sugar alcohol.

The Role of Ingredients and Sugar Alcohols

This brings us to the ingredient list, which reveals a more complex picture. The "zero sugar" label can be misleading, as the products are not necessarily low in calories or carbohydrates. The primary sugar substitute, maltitol, is a sugar alcohol that is not fully digestible by the body. This is a crucial detail for two reasons:

Carbohydrate Impact: For individuals managing blood sugar, particularly diabetics, it is important to know that maltitol can still affect glucose levels. The carbohydrates from maltitol must be factored into dietary plans, as one reviewer learned the hard way.
Digestive Discomfort: A significant warning on the packaging advises that "excess consumption may cause a laxative effect (due to maltitol)". Many reviewers have shared stories of experiencing severe gastric distress after eating more than a small amount. This is a major drawback that makes moderation essential.

Other Notable Ingredients

Enriched Bleached Flour: The base of the cake and brownie mixes is still highly processed flour, meaning the products are not a low-carb alternative.
Artificial Flavors and Colors: In addition to artificial sweeteners, the mixes also contain artificial colors and flavors, which may be a concern for some consumers seeking a more "clean" label.

Comparison: Pillsbury Zero Sugar vs. Regular Mixes

To decide if Pillsbury Zero sugar is right for you, it's helpful to see a direct comparison with its regular, sugar-laden counterpart.


Feature	Pillsbury Zero Sugar Mixes	Pillsbury Regular Mixes
Sweetener	Maltitol, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium	Sugar (Sucrose), Corn Syrup
Sugar Content	0g per serving	High (varies by product)
Net Carbs	Still contain carbs from flour and sugar alcohols	High, primarily from sugar
Calories	Not a low-calorie food	High
Taste	Generally praised as similar to regular mixes, with some noticing an artificial aftertaste	Standard, familiar taste
Digestive Impact	Potential for laxative effect due to sugar alcohols	None related to sweeteners
Diabetic Suitability	Must be consumed in moderation and carbs from maltitol counted	Not recommended due to high sugar content

Is Pillsbury Zero sugar a good choice?

So, is Pillsbury Zero sugar a good option? The answer is nuanced and depends on your specific needs and priorities. For those simply looking to reduce sugar intake and indulge in a sweet treat without the sugar rush, the products offer a delicious and satisfying alternative. However, it is far from a health food. The products are still processed and contain ingredients that may not be suitable for everyone. For those managing strict low-carb diets or with sensitive digestive systems, the sugar alcohols can pose a significant problem.

If you choose to try Pillsbury Zero sugar, proceed with caution and moderation. It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a frequent indulgence. By understanding the trade-offs, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your dietary goals and health concerns.

Baking Tips for Pillsbury Zero Sugar Mixes

Adjust Liquids: The batter for zero-sugar mixes can sometimes be thicker than the regular kind. You can add a little extra liquid, like water or a zero-sugar beverage, to achieve the desired consistency.
Frosting Alternatives: If the zero-sugar frosting has an off-putting taste, consider making your own with a different sweetener, or mixing it with cream cheese or whipped cream to soften the flavor.
Creative Add-ins: Enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like nuts, berries, or extracts. Some users have found success adding extra ingredients to boost the flavor profile.

For more information on their zero-sugar product line, you can visit the official Pillsbury baking website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Pillsbury Zero Sugar products are not zero calories. The packages explicitly state, "Not a low calorie food". While they contain no sugar, they still have calories from carbohydrates, fat, and other ingredients like flour.

Diabetics should not eat Pillsbury Zero sugar products freely. The mix contains maltitol, a sugar alcohol that can affect blood glucose levels. It is important to account for the carbohydrates from maltitol when planning a diabetic diet and to consume these products in moderation.

Excess consumption of Pillsbury Zero sugar can cause digestive problems like gas, bloating, and a laxative effect. This is due to maltitol, a sugar alcohol that is not fully absorbed by the body, which can draw water into the colon.

Consumer reports are mixed. Many people find that Pillsbury Zero sugar tastes like the real thing with no artificial aftertaste. However, others are sensitive to the artificial sweeteners and report a noticeable aftertaste, particularly in the frosting.

Whether it's "better" depends on your health goals. It is a better choice for reducing sugar intake, but it is not inherently healthier. The regular mix contains sugar, while the zero-sugar version uses artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, each with its own set of considerations.

Some consumers have noted that Pillsbury Zero sugar mixes can be more expensive than their regular sugar counterparts, which has been a point of contention for some shoppers.

To potentially improve the taste, try modifying the recipe. Some suggestions include adding natural flavors like fruit purée, nuts, or extracts. For frosting, whipping in a small amount of heavy cream or cream cheese can help improve the texture and mask any aftertaste.