Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut 🇯🇲🍠🥥
If you’re looking for a rich, comforting dessert that’s packed with tropical flavor, this Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut is a must-try.

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Ingredients
Instructions
- This traditional dessert is simple to prepare.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Grated sweet potatoes
- Coconut milk
- Evaporated milk
- Brown sugar
- Grated coconut
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Ground ginger
- Salt
- If using raisins, fold them into the mixture.
- Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, or until the pudding is set in the center and the top is deep golden brown.
- Allow the pudding to cool for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
If you’re looking for a rich, comforting dessert that’s packed with tropical flavor, this Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut is a must-try. Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut is a beloved Caribbean classic made with grated sweet potatoes, creamy coconut milk, warm spices, and a touch of vanilla. The result is a dense, moist pudding with a lightly crisp top and a soft, custard-like center that’s bursting with authentic island flavor.
Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving something unique and delicious, this traditional Jamaican dessert is sure to become a favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut
This traditional dessert is rich in flavor and easy to prepare.
Authentic Caribbean Flavor
Made with classic Jamaican ingredients and warm spices.
Rich and Moist
A perfectly dense pudding with a tender, creamy texture.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Made without wheat flour.
Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings
A beautiful dessert for special occasions or Sunday dinner.
Easy to Make
Simple ingredients with incredible homemade flavor.
What Does Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut Taste Like?
This pudding is sweet, creamy, and warmly spiced with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The sweet potatoes create a naturally rich texture, while coconut milk adds a silky, tropical richness. The golden top develops a slight chewiness, while the inside stays moist and pudding-like.
Benefits of Making Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut
Great for Make-Ahead Desserts
The flavors deepen after resting.
Naturally Filling
Sweet potatoes make this dessert hearty and satisfying.
Budget-Friendly
Made with affordable, wholesome ingredients.
Perfect for Entertaining
Slices beautifully for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and finely grated
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup grated fresh coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Ground cinnamon
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Essential Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Box grater or food processor
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Customize this traditional dessert while keeping its Caribbean spirit.
Add More Flavor
Mix in:
- Lime zest
- Allspice
- Almond extract
Fruit Options
Add:
- Chopped dried pineapple
- Chopped dates
- Golden raisins
Dairy-Free Version
Replace the evaporated milk with additional coconut milk or another unsweetened plant-based milk.
How to Make Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut
This traditional dessert is simple to prepare.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Grated sweet potatoes
- Coconut milk
- Evaporated milk
- Brown sugar
- Grated coconut
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Ground ginger
- Salt
If using raisins, fold them into the mixture.
Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, or until the pudding is set in the center and the top is deep golden brown.
Step 4: Cool
Allow the pudding to cool for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve with Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut
This dessert pairs wonderfully with:
Favorite Pairings
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh whipped cream
- Tropical fruit salad
- Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee
- Hot tea
- Toasted coconut flakes
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or reheat in a 325°F (163°C) oven until warmed through.
General Information
Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is one of the island’s most treasured desserts. Traditionally prepared for family gatherings, holidays, and Sunday dinners, it’s made with grated sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and aromatic spices. Unlike American sweet potato pie, this pudding has a dense, moist texture that’s uniquely Caribbean and deeply comforting.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 315
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 140mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Conclusion
This Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding with Coconut is a timeless Caribbean dessert that’s rich, comforting, and full of warm tropical flavor. Made with sweet potatoes, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant spices, it’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of Jamaica to your table.
Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled the next day with a cup of coffee, this traditional pudding is sure to become a cherished favorite.
If you make this recipe, leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest so others can discover this delicious Jamaican classic too!
You May Also Enjoy
- Persian Date Cake
- Butter Pecan Pound Cake
- Peach Cobbler Cheesecake
- Pecan Upside Down Cake
- Tres Leches Cake 🇯🇲🍠🥥
Tips for Success
Grate the Sweet Potatoes Finely
This creates the smooth, traditional texture.
Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk
It provides the richest flavor and creamiest consistency.
Don’t Rush the Bake
A slow bake helps develop the pudding’s signature texture and caramelized top.
Let It Rest
Cooling allows the pudding to firm up for cleaner slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potato puree?
Fresh grated sweet potatoes are strongly recommended for the authentic texture. Puree will produce a much softer, pie-like consistency.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Replace the evaporated milk with additional coconut milk or another unsweetened dairy-free alternative.
Can I use frozen grated sweet potatoes?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
Why is my pudding still soft?
It may need additional baking time. The center should be set while remaining moist.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many people find the flavor even better the next day after the spices have had time to develop.
