Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
This Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful twist on a traditional Caribbean dessert, perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Whether served at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoyed as a comforting dessert, this pudding stands out with its unique blend of ingredients and mouthwatering taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and coconut milk creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to potlucks, this pudding is sure to impress.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dessert provides a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Made without dairy products, it’s suitable for those following plant-based diets.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, you’ll need some kitchen essentials. Having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grater or food processor
- Baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your ingredients without mess.
- Baking pan: Ensures your pudding cooks evenly and retains its shape during baking.
- Grater or food processor: Allows you to efficiently prepare sweet potatoes for a smooth batter.

Ingredients
This Jamaican sweet potato pudding recipe is a vegan spin on this popular dessert enjoyed in Jamaica and the Caribbean throughout the year. It is very moist, rich, and indulgent!
For the Pudding
- 2 pounds sweet potato (aka batata)
- 1 14-ounce can coconut milk
- 1 cup coconut palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (or brown rice flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 pinch cinnamon (optional)
How to Make Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375℉. Grease a 9-inch round baking pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and roughly chop them. Grate using a grater or food processor in batches. If using a food processor or blender, add some coconut milk to help process.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Transfer the grated sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Add coconut milk, coconut palm sugar, spices, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine with Flour
Stir in gluten-free all-purpose flour until you form a mostly smooth batter.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, combine all topping ingredients. Mix well and pour evenly over the top of the pudding.
Step 7: Final Bake
Return the pudding to the oven and bake for another 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Allow cooling slightly before serving. This delicious pudding can be enjoyed alone or paired with coconut whipped cream for an extra treat!
With these simple steps, you’ll create an excellent Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding that everyone will love!
How to Serve Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it a versatile treat, perfect for different occasions.
With Coconut Whipped Cream
- This light and airy topping adds a creamy texture that complements the pudding’s sweetness beautifully.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Enjoy a slice in the morning with a cup of coffee or tea. It makes for a satisfying start to your day!
Paired with Fresh Fruits
- Serve alongside tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or banana for a refreshing contrast to the pudding’s richness.
In Dessert Parfaits
- Layer pieces of the pudding with coconut yogurt and fresh fruit in a glass for an elegant dessert parfait.
Chilled as a Snack
- Refrigerate leftovers and enjoy them cold as a delicious afternoon snack on hot days.
How to Perfect Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Perfecting your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding will elevate its taste and texture. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use ripe sweet potatoes: Choose sweet potatoes that are vibrant in color and firm to ensure maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Grate finely: Grating sweet potatoes into finer pieces will help them blend better with other ingredients, creating a smoother batter.
- Add spices wisely: Experiment with cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your preference.
- Check baking time: Keep an eye on the pudding while it bakes. Each oven is different, so look for that golden brown top as an indicator.
- Let it cool: Allow the pudding to rest after baking; this helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
- Serve warm or chilled: Depending on your preference, serve it straight from the oven or chill it in the fridge for later enjoyment.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Pairing side dishes with Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk complements the sweetness of the pudding perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh tropical fruits adds brightness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the pudding.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with spices provide a crunchy contrast that enhances each bite.
- Green Salad: A simple salad dressed lightly can refresh your palate between bites of rich pudding.
- Baked Plantains: Sweet plantains caramelized in their natural sugars pair beautifully with this dish’s flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: The smoky flavor of grilled veggies adds depth to your meal, making it more satisfying overall.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia pudding topped with fruit can be a nutritious counterpart to indulge your sweet tooth further.
- Hibiscus Tea: This tart beverage serves as a refreshing drink option that contrasts well with dessert’s sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts, especially for flour and sugar.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense pudding. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring the baking time – Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes, and do a toothpick test towards the end to check if it’s done.
- Using the wrong type of sweet potato – Ensure you are using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (batata) for the best flavor and texture; other varieties may yield a different result.
- Skipping the greasing step – Greasing your pan properly helps prevent sticking. Use coconut oil or vegan butter for best results.
- Not letting it cool before serving – Allowing the pudding to cool helps it set better. Serve it warm or at room temperature for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep moisture in.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm the pudding for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding.
What makes Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding unique?
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding combines rich coconut milk and sweet spices, creating a moist and flavorful dessert that reflects Caribbean culture.
How can I customize this Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding?
You can add nuts or dried fruits into the batter for added texture. Coconut flakes can also enhance flavor!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or brown rice flour as suggested in the recipe for gluten-free options.
How do I know when my pudding is done?
The top should be golden brown, and inserting a toothpick should come out clean when it’s fully baked.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it a perfect dessert year-round. Don’t hesitate to try your own twists by adding nuts or spices!
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this delightful Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding. This moist and rich dessert brings together sweet potatoes, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of spices to create a treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a comforting dessert, this pudding will impress everyone at the table. It’s not only delicious but also made with wholesome ingredients, making it a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Serve it warm or chilled, with or without toppings—this versatile pudding is sure to become a favorite in your home!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 cup coconut palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup coconut milk for topping
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar for topping
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla for topping
- 1 pinch cinnamon for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch round baking pan.
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes; grate them using a food processor or grater.
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes with coconut milk, coconut palm sugar, ginger, vanilla, salt, and optional spices.
- Stir in gluten-free flour until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes.
- For the topping, mix coconut milk, coconut sugar, vanilla, and optional cinnamon; pour over the pudding.
- Bake for an additional 45 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg