Vegan banana pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses simple plant-based ingredients to recreate the classic flavors of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Banana Pudding
This recipe is:
- Easy to make: With simple instructions and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert in no time.
- Rich and creamy: The combination of plant-based milk, cornstarch, and vegan butter creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy pudding.
- Perfectly sweet: The sweetness level is just right, letting the natural flavor of the bananas shine through.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, or get creative with toppings like vegan whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Vegan Vanilla Pudding:
- 2 cups plant-based milk (unsweetened almond milk or soy milk work well)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
For the Banana Pudding:
- 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (14.3 ounces) vegan vanilla wafers
How to Make Vegan Banana Pudding
Make the Vegan Vanilla Pudding
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In a medium saucepan, whisk together the plant-based milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to ensure the pudding is cooked through.
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Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and vegan butter until melted and combined.
Vegan vanilla pudding cooking in a saucepan on the stovetop. -
Let the pudding cool slightly while you prepare the bananas and wafers.
Assemble the Vegan Banana Pudding
You can assemble this vegan banana pudding in individual serving dishes or one large trifle dish.
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Layer the Ingredients: Start by spreading a thin layer of pudding on the bottom of your chosen dish.
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Top with a layer of banana slices and a layer of vegan vanilla wafers.
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Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of pudding.
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Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
Layering vegan banana pudding in a trifle dish. -
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Layering vegan banana pudding in a trifle dish.Tips for the Best Vegan Banana Pudding:
- Use ripe bananas: For the sweetest flavor and best texture, use bananas that are speckled brown and very fragrant.
- Don’t overcook the pudding: The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools, so be careful not to overcook it, or it will become gummy.
- Let it chill: Chilling the pudding is essential for allowing the flavors to blend and the wafers to soften.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to top your pudding with your favorite additions, such as vegan whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
“Using high-quality vanilla extract makes a huge difference in the final flavor of the pudding. Don’t be afraid to splurge a little on a good brand!” – Chef Amelia Green
Vegan Banana Pudding FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the vegan vanilla wafers with your favorite gluten-free vanilla cookies or graham crackers.
How long will this pudding last in the refrigerator?
Vegan banana pudding is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making.
Can I freeze vegan banana pudding?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the pudding and wafers may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh.
What kind of plant-based milk is best for this recipe?
Unsweetened almond milk and soy milk both work well in this recipe. You can experiment with other plant-based milk options, but keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour?
Cornstarch is the preferred thickener for this recipe as it creates a smoother, silkier pudding.
Enjoy Your Creamy Vegan Treat!
This vegan banana pudding is a delicious and satisfying dessert that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Now that you know how to make this classic dessert vegan, give it a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
For another quick and easy vegan dessert idea, check out this simple overnight oats recipe vegan.
