Vegan Banana Pudding

Looking for a quick and easy vegan dessert that’s both creamy and satisfying? This vegan banana pudding is the perfect treat to whip up when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with simple, plant-based ingredients and no baking required, it’s a healthy, dairy-free twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or just craving a fast, homemade pudding, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Key Benefits of This Vegan Banana Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as quick to make as it is delicious, this vegan banana pudding ticks all the boxes. One of the biggest perks is how fast it comes together-no baking or complicated steps involved, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, it’s completely dairy-free and egg-free, so it fits seamlessly into plant-based and allergy-friendly diets.

This pudding is not only easy on your schedule but also gentle on your body. Using wholesome, natural ingredients like ripe bananas, plant-based milk, and natural sweeteners means you’re indulging in a healthier alternative to traditional banana pudding. It’s creamy and satisfying without any artificial additives, making it a guilt-free treat you can enjoy anytime.

Another great benefit? Versatility. Whether you want to keep it classic or add your own twist, this recipe adapts beautifully. You can swap in your favorite plant milk, add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even layer it with vegan vanilla wafers for that nostalgic crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply treating yourself.

In short, this vegan banana pudding is a fast, easy, and wholesome dessert that brings comfort and joy with every spoonful. Ready to gather your ingredients and get started? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Vegan Banana Pudding

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this creamy, dairy-free banana pudding a success. Don’t worry-it’s a simple list of wholesome, plant-based staples you probably already have in your kitchen or can easily find at your local store.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ripe bananas: The star of the show! For maximum sweetness and flavor, use yellow bananas with some brown spots.
• Plant-based milk: Almond, coconut, oat, or soy milk all work beautifully here. Choose what you prefer or what you have.
• Coconut cream: This adds richness and a luscious texture without dairy. If you don’t have coconut cream, chilled full-fat coconut milk works as a great substitute.
• Natural sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect for adding just the right touch of sweetness without refined sugar.
• Cornstarch or arrowroot powder: This helps thicken the pudding to that perfect creamy consistency.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Vegan vanilla wafers or cookies: Optional, but highly recommended for layering and adding that classic crunch. Look for gluten-free options if needed.
• A pinch of salt: Just a little to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.

Pro tip: Make sure your bananas are ripe enough-they’re the natural sweetener and flavor base, so don’t rush this step! Also, if you prefer a thicker pudding, feel free to adjust the amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder slightly.

Instructions: How to Make Vegan Banana Pudding Fast and Easy

Ready to dive in? This vegan banana pudding comes together quickly with simple steps that anyone can follow. I’ll guide you through each part so you feel confident and excited to create this creamy, dairy-free dessert.

Step 1: Prepare the bananas

Start by peeling and slicing 3 ripe bananas. The riper they are, the sweeter your pudding will taste. Set aside a few slices for garnish if you like a pretty presentation.

Step 2: Make the pudding base

In a medium saucepan, combine:

• 2 cups of your favorite plant-based milk
• 1/3 cup natural sweetener (maple syrup or agave)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• A pinch of salt

Whisk everything together well to dissolve the starch and sweetener before heating.

Step 3: Cook until thickened

Place the pot on medium heat and let it cook, stirring continuously. Within 5–7 minutes, the mixture will thicken into a smooth, creamy pudding. After removing the mixture from the heat, add about half a cup of coconut cream for extra richness and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine bananas and pudding

Gently fold the sliced bananas into the warm pudding, reserving some for layering or topping. This keeps the pudding silky while infusing it with fresh banana flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and chill

If you’re using vegan vanilla wafers, layer them in a serving dish or individual cups with the pudding mixture. Top with remaining banana slices. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the pudding set.

Pro tip:

Use coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture. If you want to speed up chilling, pop the pudding in the freezer for 20 minutes but watch closely to avoid freezing.

Pro Tips and Variations to Elevate Your Vegan Banana Pudding

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s explore some helpful tips and fun variations to make this vegan banana pudding truly your own. These ideas will help you customize texture, flavor, and presentation-perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a personalized treat.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pudding Every Time

• Use ripe bananas: The sweeter and softer your bananas, the richer the pudding’s natural flavor will be. Overripe bananas work beautifully here!
• Choose full-fat coconut milk or cream: This adds a luscious creaminess that mimics traditional dairy pudding. For a lighter version, opt for almond or oat milk but expect a slightly thinner texture.
• Constant stirring is key: When cooking the pudding base, keep whisking to avoid lumps and ensure smoothness.
• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker pudding, add an extra half tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder. For a looser texture, reduce it slightly.
• Chill well: Letting the pudding refrigerate for at least an hour helps it set and develop flavor. Patience pays off!

Delicious Variations to Try

• Tropical Flavor: Add a splash of pineapple juice or a tablespoon of shredded coconut for a sunny flavor boost.
• Chocolate banana pudding: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for a rich, vegan chocolate banana pudding.
• Nutty crunch: Layer chopped toasted pecans or walnuts between pudding and wafers for added texture and flavor.
• Spiced delight: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the pudding base for a warm, cozy touch.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free vegan cookies or wafers to keep this dessert allergy-friendly without sacrificing crunch.

Quick Fixes and Substitutions

• No coconut cream? Use extra plant-based milk and a tablespoon of vegan butter or margarine for richness.
• Out of cornstarch? Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are excellent alternatives.
• Want it sweeter? Add a little vanilla-flavored almond milk or more maple syrup.

With these tips and variations, your vegan banana pudding can be as classic or as creative as you like. Feel free to experiment and make this easy, fast dessert your own signature treat!

Serving Suggestions for Your Vegan Banana Pudding

Now that your vegan banana pudding is perfectly set and bursting with flavor, it’s time to think about how to serve it in the most delightful way. Presentation and pairing can elevate this simple dessert into a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Pudding

• Fresh fruit toppings: Add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast by garnishing with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi. These fruits complement the creamy banana flavor beautifully.
• Crunchy accents: Sprinkle crushed vegan vanilla wafers, toasted coconut flakes, or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and a satisfying crunch.
• Whipped coconut cream: For an extra indulgent touch, dollop some chilled whipped coconut cream on each serving. It’s dairy-free and adds a light, airy finish.
• Layered parfaits: Serve the pudding in clear glasses, alternating layers of pudding, banana slices, and vegan cookies. This makes for a visually stunning and fun-to-eat dessert.
• Drizzle with vegan chocolate or caramel sauce: A little drizzle of vegan-friendly chocolate or caramel sauce can turn your pudding into a decadent treat.

Serving Tips

• Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, a quick 20-minute chill in the freezer works, but avoid freezing completely.
• Individual servings are great for parties and make portion control easy. Use small jars, ramekins, or dessert cups.
• If you want to prep ahead, assemble the pudding and toppings separately, then combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

With these serving ideas, your vegan banana pudding will not only taste incredible but look irresistible too. It’s the perfect way to impress family, friends, or simply treat yourself to a wholesome, fast dessert that feels special every time.

Vegan Banana Pudding

Paul, AI Chef

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 17 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, Vegan Comfort Food

Servings 6 peoples

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Ripe bananas: The star of the show! For maximum sweetness and flavor use yellow bananas with some brown spots.
• Plant-based milk: Almond coconut, oat, or soy milk all work beautifully here. Choose what you prefer or what you have.
• Coconut cream: This adds richness and a luscious texture without dairy. If you don’t have coconut cream chilled full-fat coconut milk works as a great substitute.
• Natural sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect for adding just the right touch of sweetness without refined sugar.
• Cornstarch or arrowroot powder: This helps thicken the pudding to that perfect creamy consistency.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Vegan vanilla wafers or cookies: Optional but highly recommended for layering and adding that classic crunch. Look for gluten-free options if needed.
• A pinch of salt: Just a little to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the bananas

• Start by peeling and slicing 3 ripe bananas. The riper they are, the sweeter your pudding will taste. Set aside a few slices for garnish if you like a pretty presentation.

Step 2: Make the pudding base

• In a medium saucepan, combine:
• 2 cups of your favorite plant-based milk
• 1/3 cup natural sweetener (maple syrup or agave)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• A pinch of salt
• Whisk everything together well to dissolve the starch and sweetener before heating.

Step 3: Cook until thickened

• Place the pot on medium heat and let it cook, stirring continuously. Within 5–7 minutes, the mixture will thicken into a smooth, creamy pudding. After removing the mixture from the heat, add about half a cup of coconut cream for extra richness and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine bananas and pudding

• Gently fold the sliced bananas into the warm pudding, reserving some for layering or topping. This keeps the pudding silky while infusing it with fresh banana flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and chill

• If you’re using vegan vanilla wafers, layer them in a serving dish or individual cups with the pudding mixture. Top with remaining banana slices. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the pudding set.

Pro tip:

• Use coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture. If you want to speed up chilling, pop the pudding in the freezer for 20 minutes but watch closely to avoid freezing.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 6g (mainly from coconut cream)
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 18g (natural sweeteners and bananas)
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 80mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.

Why This Vegan Banana Pudding Should Be Your Go-To Dessert

Making a fast, delicious vegan banana pudding has never been easier-or more rewarding. This recipe combines wholesome, plant-based ingredients with simple steps to deliver a creamy, dairy-free dessert that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this pudding offers a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.

Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and speed. You can quickly prepare it for a special occasion, a last-minute meeting, or even mid-week.

Plus, it’s allergy-friendly and adaptable, fitting seamlessly into many dietary lifestyles.

So next time you crave something sweet, creamy, and satisfying, give this vegan banana pudding a try. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Happy cooking-and even happier tasting!

FAQs About Vegan Banana Pudding

I know trying a new recipe can bring up a few questions, so I’ve gathered some of the most common ones about this vegan banana pudding. Hopefully, these answers will make your cooking experience even smoother and more enjoyable!