Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a luscious, spiced dessert that celebrates the deep, earthy sweetness of grated sweet potatoes blended with warm Caribbean spices and creamy coconut milk. This traditional baked pudding is both comforting and richly flavored, perfect for sharing.

Dessert

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

90 min

Servings

8

This Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a beloved traditional dessert that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Jamaica, blending indigenous ingredients with the warm spices introduced during the island's colonial era. The star ingredient, sweet potatoes, provides a naturally sweet and starchy base, perfectly complemented by the creamy richness of coconut milk and the aromatic warmth of allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Historically, sweet potato pudding is served during festive occasions and family gatherings, embodying a sense of home and comfort. Its unique texture—moist yet firm with tender pockets of raisins infused with spices—makes it a delightful treat, especially when enjoyed slightly warm. This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of strong black coffee or a mild herbal tea, balancing its sweetness and spice. It can also serve as a charming conclusion to a Caribbean-inspired meal, evoking the island’s vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Sweet Potatoes
  • 1 1/2 cup Coconut Milk
  • 1 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 0.5 cup All purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1 teaspoon Allspice
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg
  • 0.5 tsp Ground Ginger
  • 0.25 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 cup Raisins
  • 0.75 cup Coconut Milk
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
  • 0.13 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 0.13 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for even baking. Grease and line a 9-inch round or loaf pan with parchment paper; this step ensures easy removal and a smooth finish to your pudding. Cut your sweet potatoes into chunks and place them in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until they're finely grated, which helps create the pudding’s signature smooth and moist texture. In a small bowl, toss the raisins with 2 teaspoons of the reserved flour from the ½ cup you’ll be using later—this simple step prevents the raisins from sinking to the bottom during baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated sweet potatoes with light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. These spices infuse the pudding with a warm, harmonious aroma. Gradually stir in 1½ cups of coconut milk until the mixture forms a luscious batter. Gently fold in the floured raisins, ensuring even distribution without overmixing. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The pudding should be mostly set but can remain slightly soft in the center, offering a lovely, tender bite. Tip: Check your pudding towards the end of baking; if the top begins to brown too quickly, shield it with foil. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to help it set and to bring out its full flavors.

Quick Info

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
90 min
Total Time
110 min
Servings
8