Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
This Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy family dinner. The pudding is incredibly moist and rich, making it an indulgent treat that everyone will love. With its sweet and spicy flavors, this dish stands out as a unique alternative to traditional desserts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and coconut milk creates a creamy texture and rich flavor that is truly satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or chilled, plain or topped with coconut whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration, this pudding fits right in.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes and coconut milk, this dessert can also be part of a balanced diet.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grater or food processor
- Baking pan (9-inch round)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
- Grater or food processor: These tools save time by quickly grating sweet potatoes into fine shreds.
- Baking pan: A 9-inch round baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.

Ingredients
For this delectable Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pudding
- 2 pounds sweet potato (aka batata) See Notes
- 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 your 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 you’re using a food processor or blender, add some coconut milk to help with processing.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Transfer the grated sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Add the coconut milk, coconut palm sugar, spices, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Form the Batter
Stir in the gluten-free all-purpose flour until you form a mostly smooth batter.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Bake for about 45 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine all topping ingredients. Pour this mixture 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 turns golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Enjoy your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding warm or let it cool down. It pairs wonderfully with coconut whipped cream if desired.
With this easy recipe, you’ll create an unforgettable dessert that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
With Coconut Whipped Cream
- A light and fluffy coconut whipped cream adds creaminess and a tropical touch to the pudding.
Topped with Fresh Fruit
- Slices of mango, pineapple, or berries provide a refreshing contrast and brighten up each bite.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Served Warm with Ice Cream
- Enjoy the pudding warm alongside your favorite non-dairy ice cream for a comforting dessert treat.
Accompanied by Spiced Tea
- A cup of spiced tea complements the flavors beautifully, making for a cozy finish to any meal.
How to Perfect Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
To ensure your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding turns out perfectly each time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
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Choose the right sweet potatoes: Use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (batata) for the best texture and flavor.
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Grate evenly: Ensure sweet potatoes are grated uniformly for consistent baking and texture in the pudding.
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Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of coconut palm sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.
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Monitor baking time: Baking times may vary based on oven type; keep an eye on the pudding towards the end to prevent overbaking.
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Let it cool: Allowing the pudding to cool slightly before serving helps set its structure and makes slicing easier.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Pairing side dishes with Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious options:
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Tropical Fruit Salad
A mix of fresh fruits like kiwi, papaya, and banana creates a light and refreshing side that balances richness. -
Coconut Rice
Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk enhances the tropical theme and provides a satisfying base alongside the pudding. -
Jerk-Seasoned Vegetables
Roasted or sautéed vegetables seasoned with jerk spices add a spicy kick that contrasts well with the sweetness of the pudding. -
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad with lime dressing offers a nutty flavor and complements the dessert’s richness without being overwhelming. -
Steamed Greens
Lightly steamed kale or collard greens provide a nutritious element that rounds out your meal beautifully. -
Plantain Chips
Crunchy plantain chips offer a savory crunch that can balance out the sweetness of the pudding nicely. -
Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumber tossed with lime juice and herbs adds freshness, making it a perfect counterpoint to the rich dessert. -
Cashew Cream Dip
A smooth cashew cream dip seasoned with herbs serves as an indulgent yet healthy addition to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your final dish.
- Using the wrong sweet potatoes: Not all sweet potatoes are created equal. Use batata or orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your pudding tough. Stir just until combined for a moist texture.
- Skipping the spices: Neglecting spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can lead to a bland pudding. Use them to enhance the flavor profile.
- Not adjusting baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your pudding, and test for doneness as ovens vary in temperature accuracy.
- Ignoring the topping: The topping adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip it; it elevates your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Let the pudding cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if necessary to avoid sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding.
What is Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding?
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful dessert made from grated sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and spices, offering a rich, moist experience without animal products.
Can I use other flours for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour with brown rice flour or other gluten-free options that have similar properties.
How long does it take to bake Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding?
The total bake time is approximately 90 minutes, with the first phase taking about 45 minutes before adding the topping.
Is there a way to make this pudding less sweet?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of coconut palm sugar according to your taste preferences while still enjoying its natural sweetness from sweet potatoes.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits?
Yes! Feel free to customize your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding by adding chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is not only a delicious dessert but also versatile enough to adapt with various flavors and toppings. It’s perfect for any occasion, so give it a try! Enjoy customizing this recipe with your favorite additions!
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Indulge in the rich flavors of Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, a delightful dessert that transports you to the Caribbean with every bite. Made from creamy sweet potatoes and coconut milk, this pudding is both moist and flavorful, perfect for any gathering or cozy family dinner. With its unique blend of spices and sweetness, this dish offers a refreshing alternative to traditional desserts while being nutritious and satisfying. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, plain or topped with coconut whipped cream, this vegan treat is sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potato
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch round baking pan.
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes, then grate using a grater or food processor.
- In a large bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes with coconut milk, coconut palm sugar, ginger, vanilla, spices (if using), and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Gradually add gluten-free flour until a mostly smooth batter forms.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
- For the topping: Mix together coconut milk, coconut sugar, vanilla, and optional cinnamon in a small bowl; pour over the pudding.
- Bake for another 45 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg