Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
This Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic Caribbean dessert, perfect for any occasion. Its rich and moist texture, combined with the sweet flavors of coconut and spices, makes it an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pudding is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dessert without fuss.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and spices creates a deep, satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or chilled, alone or with toppings like coconut whipped cream; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with sweet potatoes and coconut milk, this pudding offers vitamins and healthy fats.
- Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy this classic dessert without any animal products, making it suitable for vegan diets.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this scrumptious Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grater or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round baking pan
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients into a smooth batter.
- Grater or food processor: Makes shredding the sweet potatoes quick and easy, ensuring even texture in the pudding.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
- 9-inch round baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and helps create that beautiful golden top.

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 with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and roughly chop them into smaller pieces. Use a grater or food processor to grate them until they are finely shredded. If using a food processor or blender, add some of the coconut milk to help with processing.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the grated sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add in the coconut milk, coconut palm sugar, freshly grated ginger, vanilla extract, optional spices (cinnamon and nutmeg), and sea salt. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 4: Add Flour
Gradually stir in the gluten-free all-purpose flour until you achieve a mostly smooth batter. Ensure there are no lumps for an even texture.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
While the pudding bakes, combine all topping ingredients—coconut milk, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon—in a small bowl.
Step 7: Add Topping
After baking for 45 minutes, carefully remove the pudding from the oven. Pour the topping mixture evenly over the top of the pudding.
Step 8: Final Bake
Return the pudding to the oven and bake for another 45 minutes or until its top is golden brown.
Step 9: Serve
Allow cooling slightly before serving. This delicious pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled alone or topped with coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence!
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 want to keep it simple or elevate your serving style, there are plenty of options to enhance this delicious dish.
With Coconut Whipped Cream
- This light and airy topping adds a creamy texture and enhances the sweetness of the pudding.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Slices of mango, pineapple, or berries can add a refreshing touch and extra flavor contrast to the rich pudding.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A drizzle of maple syrup can provide additional sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor that complements the pudding perfectly.
Warm with a Scoop of Vegan Ice Cream
- Serving warm sweet potato pudding with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream creates a comforting dessert experience.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Enjoy leftover pudding cold for breakfast, topped with nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
With a Side of Spiced Tea
- Pairing it with ginger or cinnamon tea can enhance the overall flavor and make for a cozy snack.
How to Perfect Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
To achieve the best results with your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, consider these helpful tips. Each step will enhance texture and flavor, ensuring your dessert shines.
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Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness and moisture.
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Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on the pudding during baking; check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
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Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to add more ginger or nutmeg according to your preference for spiciness.
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Let it cool before serving: Allowing the pudding to cool helps set its texture, making it easier to slice and serve.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Pairing your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:
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Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish balances sweetness with creamy coconut milk, enhancing tropical flavors.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like papaya, kiwi, and banana offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pudding.
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Spicy Black Bean Salad: The protein-rich beans combined with spices provide a savory counterpart that balances out sweetness.
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Mango Chutney: A tangy chutney adds zest and complexity, brightening up each bite of pudding.
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Quinoa Salad: This nutritious salad brings textures together while remaining light; consider adding lime dressing for zing.
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Crispy Kale Chips: Crunchy kale chips offer a savory crunch that pairs nicely with the soft texture of the pudding.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can add warmth and earthiness to each serving, making it heartier.
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Chickpea Curry: A mild chickpea curry introduces spices that complement the pudding while providing protein.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Ensure sweet potatoes are cooked just right. Too soft can lead to a mushy pudding. Boil until tender but firm for perfect texture.
- Ignoring Measurements: Skipping accurate measurements can alter taste and texture. Always use precise amounts of coconut milk and sugar for the best results.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Forgetting to preheat can affect baking time and consistency. Always preheat your oven to 375℉ before you start.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using less fresh or low-quality ingredients can impact flavor. Opt for fresh sweet potatoes and high-quality coconut milk for rich taste.
- Skipping the Topping: Neglecting the topping may result in a less appealing pudding. The topping adds flavor and texture, so don’t skip it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate; heat on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a non-stick skillet, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding?
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a dairy-free dessert made from sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and spices that create a rich, moist treat.
How do I make Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour or brown rice flour as substitutes in the recipe to maintain its deliciousness while keeping it gluten-free.
Can I customize my Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even different spices like cardamom for unique flavors that suit your taste preferences.
How long does it take to prepare Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding?
The total time for making this pudding is approximately 105 minutes, including preparation and baking time.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is not only rich and indulgent but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices. Enjoy this delightful dessert any time of year!
Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Indulge in the tropical flavors of Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding, a delightful twist on a classic Caribbean dessert. This moist and rich pudding combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices, creating an irresistible treat for any occasion. Perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in, this pudding is vegan-friendly and packed with nutrients, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of paradise guilt-free. Whether served warm or chilled, alone or adorned with coconut whipped cream, this dessert is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potato
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup coconut palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon 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 (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch round baking pan.
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into smaller pieces. Grate them finely using a food processor or grater.
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes, coconut milk, coconut palm sugar, ginger, vanilla extract, optional spices, and sea salt. Mix well.
- Gradually stir in gluten-free flour until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 45 minutes.
- While baking, mix topping ingredients: coconut milk, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- After the initial baking time, pour the topping mixture over the pudding and return to the oven for another 45 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow cooling slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg