Best Vegan Pudding Recipe for Creamy, Delicious Desserts

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy treat without any dairy, eggs, or animal products? Look no further than this Best Vegan Pudding Recipe!

Whether you’re already plant-based or simply seeking a luscious dessert that’s lighter on the planet, this pudding will blow you away with its silky-smooth texture and decadent flavor. It’s the perfect answer for those days when you crave comfort in a bowl, but want to keep things wholesome and vegan-friendly.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under 20 minutes—no fancy techniques or obscure products required. Honestly, you might never go back to store-bought pudding again!

This vegan pudding is endlessly customizable, meaning you can dress it up for special occasions or enjoy it as a quick, everyday treat. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends, family, or anyone who appreciates a sweet spoonful of nostalgia.

Let’s dive in and make the creamiest vegan pudding you’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra Creamy: Thanks to a blend of plant-based milk and coconut cream, this pudding has a rich, velvety texture that rivals any dairy version.
  • Quick & Easy: You can have this pudding ready to chill in just about 15-20 minutes—no complicated steps!
  • Allergy Friendly: Completely free from dairy, eggs, and gluten (if you choose the right starch), making it suitable for nearly everyone.
  • Customizable: This is a base recipe you can flavor countless ways—chocolate, vanilla, coconut, or even fruit blends!
  • Healthier Choice: Lower in saturated fat than traditional pudding, with wholesome, real-food ingredients.
  • Great Make-Ahead Dessert: Perfect for meal-prep, lunch boxes, or make-ahead entertaining.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Plant-Based Milk 2 cups Almond, soy, oat, or cashew milk all work well
Coconut Cream 1/2 cup For richness; use full-fat canned coconut milk and scoop the cream
Cornstarch 1/4 cup Or arrowroot starch for a gluten-free option
Organic Cane Sugar 1/3 cup Adjust to taste; maple syrup or coconut sugar also work
Vanilla Extract 2 teaspoons Use real vanilla for best flavor
Pinch of Salt ~1/8 teaspoon Enhances flavor
Optional: Cocoa Powder 2-3 tablespoons For chocolate pudding variation

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Heatproof Spatula
  • Serving Bowls or Ramekins
  • Plastic Wrap or Reusable Covers

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

    In a medium saucepan (off the heat), whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, and salt. If making chocolate pudding, add cocoa powder now as well.

  2. Add Liquids:

    Gradually pour in the plant-based milk and coconut cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Make sure everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.

  3. Heat and Thicken:

    Turn the burner to medium heat. Whisk the mixture frequently as it heats, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides.

    After 5-8 minutes, the mixture will start to thicken and bubble. Reduce the heat to low and whisk constantly for 2-3 more minutes, until the pudding coats the back of a spoon.

  4. Add Vanilla:

    Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract (and any other flavorings you like).

  5. Chill:

    Pour the pudding into individual bowls or ramekins. To prevent a skin from forming, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding.

    Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.

  6. Serve and Enjoy:

    Top with vegan whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy your homemade vegan pudding!

Tips & Variations

  • Chocolate Heaven:

    For a decadent chocolate pudding, whisk in 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder at the start. You can also add a handful of vegan chocolate chips for extra richness.

  • Flavor Swaps:

    Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder for mocha pudding, or a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a warming twist.

  • Make it Nut-Free:

    Use oat or soy milk for a nut-free base. The coconut cream can often be tolerated, but you can replace it with soy cream if needed.

  • Sweetener Options:

    Replace sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a refined-sugar-free version, but reduce the plant milk slightly to compensate for the extra liquid.

  • Layer It Up:

    For a parfait, layer the pudding with fresh fruit or vegan granola. This also makes a beautiful presentation for guests!

  • Texture Tip:

    For the smoothest pudding, whisk constantly while cooking and strain the finished pudding through a fine mesh sieve before chilling.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size Calories Fat Carbohydrates Sugar Protein
1/2 cup 180 7g 29g 13g 2g

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and will vary based on the plant-based milk and sweetener used.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Comfort: Top with a dollop of vegan whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for the ultimate comfort treat.
  • Fresh Fruit: Pair your pudding with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Crunch Factor: Sprinkle with toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or a handful of granola.
  • Layered Parfaits: Alternate layers of pudding with crumbled Christmas Cookie Shots or vegan cookies for a show-stopping dessert.
  • Chilled or Warm: While most enjoy pudding chilled, it’s also delicious served warm straight from the pot—just be careful!
  • Special Occasion: Garnish with chocolate shavings and pair with a scoop of Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream for a decadent vegan sundae.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for the best vegan pudding recipe, this one truly delivers on all counts—creamy, comforting, and endlessly versatile. It’s the kind of dessert you can whip up on a whim with pantry staples, impress guests with its elegance, or simply enjoy as a cozy treat after dinner.

The secret lies in balancing wholesome, plant-based ingredients with classic pudding technique, resulting in a dessert that’s both nostalgic and modern.

Ready for more plant-based inspiration? Be sure to check out our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe for a savory main, and don’t miss the rich, irresistible Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for your next celebration.

Whether you’re vegan or simply love good food, this pudding is sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation. Happy cooking and sweet eating!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Chocolate Pudding

Description: This creamy vegan pudding is rich, chocolatey, and easy to make. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack everyone will love.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, cornstarch, coconut sugar, and salt.
  2. Gradually add almond milk and coconut cream, whisking until smooth.
  3. Place saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Pour pudding into serving dishes.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 31 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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