When you think of Jamaican desserts, rich, tropical flavors and vibrant spices come to mind. But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle and want to indulge without compromise?
Fear not! This best Jamaican vegan dessert recipe brings all the authentic island magic straight to your kitchen, without any animal products.
From the warm aroma of coconut milk and nutmeg to the sweet, caramelized goodness of brown sugar, this dessert is a perfect balance of indulgence and health-consciousness.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a comforting treat, this vegan delight will satisfy your sweet tooth and transport your taste buds to Jamaica. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare with common pantry staples.
Let’s dive into the flavors and secrets behind this irresistible Caribbean creation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is a celebration of classic Jamaican flavors, made entirely vegan and wholesome. It’s naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and refined sugar-free if you choose natural sweeteners.
The use of coconut milk adds creaminess and a tropical touch, while warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon evoke the sunny island breeze.
You’ll appreciate how easy it is to customize this recipe to your liking, whether you want it sweeter, spicier, or nutty. It’s a comforting dessert that suits any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with a cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee or a refreshing hibiscus tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 cup ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch baking dish or square pan
- Oven
- Toaster oven or skillet (for toasting nuts and coconut)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Toast the shredded coconut and nuts. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the shredded coconut until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the nuts, if using, until fragrant and slightly browned.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, coconut milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lime juice. Whisk together until smooth and evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the toasted shredded coconut and nuts. This adds texture and a delightful crunch throughout the dessert.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes. The dessert should be golden and firm to the touch. Insert a toothpick in the center to check — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to develop fully and the dessert to set.
Tips & Variations
Tip: For a richer flavor, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour. This also adds a bit more nutrition and a lovely texture!
Variation: Add 1/4 cup raisins or chopped dried tropical fruits like pineapple or mango for an extra burst of sweetness.
Tip: If you prefer a pudding-style dessert, reduce the flour to 1/3 cup and bake for less time, checking frequently.
Variation: Drizzle with vegan caramel sauce or sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes before serving for a more decadent finish.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Fat | 10 g |
Saturated Fat | 8 g |
Carbohydrates | 32 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 18 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Sodium | 120 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This Jamaican vegan dessert is perfect served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vegan coconut ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an indulgent treat.
For a lighter option, serve alongside fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or papaya. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top enhances the warm spices beautifully.
To complete your Jamaican-inspired meal, consider trying some of our other favorite recipes like the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan) or indulge in sweet breads with the Marzipan Challah Recipe.
Conclusion
This Jamaican vegan dessert recipe brings a wonderful fusion of tropical flavors and comforting spices together in a simple, easy-to-make dish. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a plant-based sweet treat that doesn’t skimp on authenticity or taste.
The combination of coconut milk, bananas, and warm spices creates a moist, flavorful dessert that’s sure to impress family, friends, and anyone new to vegan cooking.
With its versatility and natural ingredients, it’s a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re new to vegan desserts or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers something special.
Try it alongside other creative vegan options like the Leche De Pantera Recipe or the playful Magic Dough Recipe to keep your culinary adventures exciting. Enjoy the taste of Jamaica in every bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Jamaican Vegan Dessert Recipe – Sweet Potato Pudding
Description: A traditional Jamaican sweet potato pudding made vegan with coconut milk and warm spices. This dessert is rich, creamy, and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT1H
Total Time: PT1H15M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated sweet potato
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine grated sweet potato, coconut milk, and brown sugar.
- Add whole wheat flour, shredded coconut, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla, and baking powder.
- Mix all ingredients until well combined.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until set and golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 42 g
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