Will Pudding Set If Made With Almond Milk? (Fully Explained)

Are you a fan of pudding but looking for a dairy-free alternative?

Almond milk might be the answer you’re looking for. But will it set properly and give you that creamy, satisfying texture you crave?

We’ve scoured the internet and experimented with different methods to find out.

In this article, we’ll share our findings and give you tips on how to make the perfect almond milk pudding.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just curious, read on to discover the secrets of making delicious pudding with almond milk.

Will Pudding Set If Made With Almond Milk?

The short answer is yes, pudding can set with almond milk. However, it’s important to use the right type of pudding mix and almond milk to achieve the desired texture.

Instant pudding mixes, which are designed to set quickly, may not work well with almond milk. We found that using Cook & Serve pudding mix and refrigerated unsweetened almond milk yielded the best results.

When making Jell-O instant pudding with almond milk, use 1-1/2 cups of soy, almond, or coconut milk in place of 2 cups of dairy milk. The set will be softer and more spoonable than traditional dairy-based pudding.

Adding chia seeds to soupy pudding may thicken it up, but it will also give it a seedy texture. For a smoother texture, try using a blender to whip the pudding mixture until it thickens.

The Science Behind Pudding Setting

The key to pudding setting is the interaction between the thickening agent in the pudding mix and the calcium in the milk. Traditional dairy milk is a rich source of calcium, which reacts with tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP), the thickening agent in instant pudding mix. However, almond milk does not naturally contain calcium, so using it with instant pudding mix can result in a runny consistency.

To overcome this issue, it’s important to use half as much almond milk as you would use cow’s milk. This means that for every ounce of instant pudding mix, you should use one cup of almond milk instead of the two cups called for in traditional dairy-based pudding recipes.

Refrigerated almond milk works better than shelf-stable versions due to differences in pasteurization levels. Homemade almond milk may not work as well for pudding, especially instant pudding, because it lacks the additives that help emulsify and thicken commercial almond milk products.

For cooked pudding, start with slightly less almond milk than what is called for and gradually add more as necessary until you reach your desired consistency. Soy, almond, and coconut milks are recommended as the best plant-based alternatives to dairy milk for making pudding due to their ability to set properly.

Differences Between Almond Milk And Dairy Milk

Almond milk and dairy milk have some key differences that can affect the texture and flavor of pudding. Firstly, almond milk is a plant-based milk, while dairy milk comes from cows. This means that almond milk has a different composition of proteins and fats than dairy milk, which can affect how the pudding sets.

Pudding made with almond milk will have a softer set than pudding made with dairy milk. This means that it will be more spoonable and less firm. Additionally, the mouthfeel and flavor of almond milk pudding will be different from dairy-based pudding.

When using almond milk in pudding, it’s important to choose the right type of almond milk. Refrigerated unsweetened almond milk works better than shelf-stable almond milk, as it has fewer additives and will yield a thicker texture. It’s also important to use Cook & Serve pudding mix instead of instant pudding mix, as the latter may not work well with almond milk.

Tips For Making Almond Milk Pudding

If you’re interested in making almond milk pudding, here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect texture:

1. Choose the right pudding mix: Cook & Serve pudding mix works best with almond milk, as it is designed to set more firmly than instant pudding mix.

2. Use refrigerated almond milk: Shelf-stable almond milk may not yield the desired texture, as it contains more additives than refrigerated almond milk.

3. Whip the mixture: If using instant pudding mix, try using a blender to whip the mixture until it thickens. This can help achieve a smoother texture.

4. Be patient: When making Cook & Serve pudding with almond milk, it’s important to let the mixture sit untouched for at least 5 minutes after removing it from heat. Mixing too soon can cause lumps and prevent the pudding from setting properly.

5. Consider flavor combinations: Almond milk pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter flavors, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious and creamy almond milk pudding that sets just right.

Delicious Almond Milk Pudding Recipes To Try

If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based milks into your cooking and baking, pudding is a great place to start. Here are some delicious almond milk pudding recipes to try:

1. Almond Milk Chocolate Pudding: This recipe uses cornstarch as a thickener and is flavored with cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Simply heat the almond milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract in a saucepan, add the cornstarch paste, and stir until thickened. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

2. Coconut Almond Milk Pudding: This recipe combines full-fat coconut milk with almond milk for a rich and creamy texture. Simply whisk together the milks, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract in a saucepan and heat until thickened. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

3. Sugar-Free Almond Milk Pudding: For a healthier option, try this sugar-free recipe that uses a small amount of coconut milk and the rest almond milk. Mix a tablespoon of coconut milk into the almond milk before adding the instant pudding mix. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

4. Almond Milk White Chocolate Pudding: This recipe uses dairy-free and vegan white chocolate chips for a decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. Heat the almond milk, sugar, and flour in a saucepan until thickened, then add the white chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

No matter which recipe you choose, making pudding with almond milk is easy and delicious!