Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Ice Cream vs Pudding: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Pudding is generally healthier

Pudding comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (105 vs 207), more protein (3.6g vs 3.5g), less sugar (14g vs 21g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pudding

105 kcal

More Protein

Pudding

3.6g

More Fiber

Ice Cream

0g

Less Sugar

Pudding

14g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ice Cream
207
Pudding
105
Proteinper 100g
Ice Cream
3.5g
Pudding
3.6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ice Cream
24g
Pudding
17g
Fatper 100g
Ice Cream
11g
Pudding
3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientIce CreamPuddingDifference
Calories207kcal105kcal+102.0kcal
Protein3.5g3.6g-0.1g
Carbohydrates24g17g+7.0g
Fat11g3g+8.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar21g14g+7.0g
Sodium52mg220mg-168.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Ice Cream

Per 100g:207 calories
Per cup (150g):311 calories
Per serving (85g):176 calories

Pudding

Per 100g:105 calories
Per cup (150g):158 calories
Per serving (85g):89 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ice Cream

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Pudding

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Ice Cream

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (52mg vs 220mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Ice Cream nutrition →

When to Choose Pudding

  • Lower in calories (105 vs 207)
  • Higher in protein (3.6g vs 3.5g)
  • Lower in carbs (17g vs 24g)
  • Less sugar (14g vs 21g)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Pudding nutrition →

Ice Cream vs Pudding: Nutritional Analysis

Ice Cream is more calorie-dense at 207 calories per 100g compared to 105 for Pudding, a difference of 102 calories. On the protein front, Pudding delivers more with 3.6g per 100g versus 3.5g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Ice Cream and Pudding tell different nutritional stories. Ice Cream provides 24g of carbohydrates, 11g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Pudding contains 17g carbs, 3g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Ice Cream contains 21g while Pudding has 14g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pudding is the lower-calorie choice at 105 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pudding provides more protein (3.6g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Ice Cream offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Ice Cream or Pudding?

Ice Cream has more calories with 207 kcal per 100g, compared to Pudding with 105 kcal. That's a difference of 102 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ice Cream healthier than Pudding?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pudding is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pudding has 105 calories, 3.6g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Ice Cream and Pudding?

Pudding has more protein with 3.6g per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 3.5g. Pudding provides 0.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ice Cream or Pudding?

For weight loss, Pudding is the better choice with only 105 calories per 100g compared to 207 calories in Ice Cream. Pudding also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ice Cream or Pudding have fewer carbs?

Pudding has fewer carbs with 17g per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 24g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pudding is the better option with 7.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.