Vegan Vanilla Pudding is a delightful, rich, and creamy dessert that anyone can enjoy. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight treats, or simply to satisfy that sweet craving. What’s special about this pudding is its simplicity and the way it combines wholesome ingredients to create a delicious end result. Plus, it’s vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. I remember making this treat with my family, sharing laughs while waiting for it to chill—a perfect blend of togetherness and sweetness!
Why Make This Recipe
Vegan Vanilla Pudding is not just easy to make, it checks all the boxes for a comforting dessert. It is made with simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, and it comes together in no time. This pudding is smooth, creamy, and versatile enough to be a delicious base for various toppings, such as fresh berries or vegan whipped cream. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce kids to plant-based cooking, encouraging healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
"This pudding was a hit with my family! They couldn’t believe it was vegan," says a happy home baker.
How to Make Vegan Vanilla Pudding
Making Vegan Vanilla Pudding is a straightforward process that requires minimal time and effort. You’ll start by whisking the dry ingredients together in a stainless steel saucepan. Once blended, you’ll add in the coconut milk slowly while mixing to ensure a smooth mixture. After heating it on the stove, the pudding will thicken, becoming decadent and creamy. Once removed from heat, you’ll mix in vanilla extract before transferring it to cups or a bowl to chill. Finally, after a bit of time in the fridge, your pudding will be ready to serve and enjoyed by all.
Ingredients
Gather these items for a delightful Vegan Vanilla Pudding:
- 1/3 cup vegan light brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tbsp. cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp. nutritional yeast
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1 13.5-oz. can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
For a twist, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar or adding a splash of almond extract for a different flavor.
Directions
To make your Vegan Vanilla Pudding, follow these simple steps:
In a medium stainless steel saucepan (without heat), whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, and salt until well combined. Slowly add your coconut milk, whisking until your dry ingredients are completely dissolved. Make sure there are no clumps remaining before you turn on the heat. Heat the mixture over medium heat, continuing to whisk constantly. When the mixture just begins to bubble and thicken, turn the heat down to medium-low and continue whisking for 3-4 minutes longer. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in your vanilla extract. Transfer to a large bowl or individual pudding cups and allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cover your pudding with plastic wrap, placing the plastic directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent a film from developing. Then refrigerate for an hour or until fully chilled (the time needed may vary depending on whether you’re chilling it in one bowl or several). Garnish with berries, vegan whipped cream, or any other toppings you’d like. Enjoy!
How to Serve Vegan Vanilla Pudding
Serving this Vegan Vanilla Pudding is as easy as it is delicious. You can spoon it into individual cups for a cute presentation, perfect for gatherings or family movie nights. Add some fresh berries on top for a pop of color and flavor, or a dollop of vegan whipped cream for extra creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, try drizzling some homemade chocolate sauce or sprinkling nuts for a crunchy texture. This pudding also makes a fantastic layer in parfaits, adding a delightful surprise to your dessert.
How to Store
To keep your Vegan Vanilla Pudding fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It’s best to keep the pudding covered to maintain its texture and prevent it from developing a skin. Freezing is not recommended, as the consistency and creaminess may be affected. If you notice any lumps or a skin forming, a quick blend in a blender can revive its original smoothness.
Tips to Make
Here are a few helpful tips to enhance your Vegan Vanilla Pudding experience. Make sure to use a stainless steel saucepan, as other materials may not heat evenly, affecting your pudding’s texture. When whisking, be sure to mix constantly to prevent sticking or burning, ensuring you develop that creamy consistency. If you’re new to using cornstarch, remember that it’s essential for thickening the pudding, so measure it carefully.
Variations
This Vegan Vanilla Pudding can be customized in so many ways! For a chocolate variant, simply add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. If you want a fruity twist, consider mixing in some pureed mango or banana before chilling. You can also adjust the sweetness by swapping brown sugar for maple syrup or agave nectar. Seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm touch, perfect for cozy fall evenings.
FAQs
What can I serve with Vegan Vanilla Pudding?
You can serve it with fresh fruits, vegan whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or even crumbled cookies for added texture!
Can I make this pudding in advance?
Absolutely! Vegan Vanilla Pudding can be prepared a day ahead. Just store it properly in the fridge.
Is it possible to use a different kind of milk?
Yes, you can try almond, soy, or oat milk, but the pudding’s creaminess may vary, especially since coconut milk enriches the flavor.
Why does my pudding have a skin on top?
To prevent a skin, cover the pudding with plastic wrap directly on its surface before chilling.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you love this pudding, you might also enjoy our delicious Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse or our delightful Mini Bento Cake Recipe.
Don’t forget to check out our social pages for more great recipes and inspiration!
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Vegan Vanilla Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium stainless steel saucepan (without heat), whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, and salt until well combined.
- Slowly add your coconut milk, whisking until the dry ingredients are completely dissolved with no clumps remaining.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, continuing to whisk constantly.
- When the mixture just begins to bubble and thicken, turn the heat down to medium-low and continue whisking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
- Transfer the pudding to a large bowl or individual cups and allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Cover the pudding with plastic wrap, placing it directly on the surface to prevent a film from developing.
- Refrigerate for an hour or until fully chilled.
- Garnish with fresh berries, vegan whipped cream, or any desired toppings before serving.