Vegan Pumpkin Pudding Recipe: A Full Guide

This vegan pumpkin pudding is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of pumpkin pie in a creamy, custard-like form. It’s quick to prepare, requiring only about 10 minutes of active cooking time, plus chilling time. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making this delicious treat.

Ingredients

To make vegan pumpkin pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 ½ cups dairy-free milk (such as almond, soy, or coconut milk)
• 1 ¼ cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings:

• Vegan whipped cream
• Ground cinnamon (for dusting)

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ramekins or small jars for serving
• Plastic wrap (for chilling)

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar and cornstarch until no lumps remain.

Add Milk:

• Slowly whisk in the dairy-free milk until fully combined with the dry ingredients.

Incorporate Pumpkin:

• Add the pumpkin puree to the mixture and whisk until smooth.

Cook the Mixture:

• Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Continuously whisk the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Flavor It:

• Remove from heat and stir in the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract until well combined.

Chill:

• Spoon the pudding into ramekins or jars. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours.

Serve:

• Once chilled, top with vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon before serving.

Tips for Perfect Pudding

• Preventing Lumps: When adding milk, whisk continuously to avoid lumps forming.
• Chilling Time: For best results, chill overnight; this allows flavors to meld and improves texture.
• Customization: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste or add other toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.

Nutritional Information

This recipe yields approximately four servings, with each serving containing around 203 calories, depending on specific ingredient brands used.

This creamy vegan pumpkin pudding is not only easy to prepare but also makes for an excellent alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. Enjoy it as a fall dessert or any time you crave something sweet and comforting!

Creative Toppings for Vegan Pumpkin Pudding

Enhancing your vegan pumpkin pudding with creative toppings can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

• Coconut Whipped Cream: A classic choice, this adds a light and creamy texture. Simply whip chilled coconut cream until fluffy and sweeten with a bit of maple syrup or powdered sugar.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin.
• Spiced Pumpkin Seeds: Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) seasoned with cinnamon and a touch of salt provide a delightful contrast in texture.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melted dairy-free chocolate drizzled over the top adds richness and a hint of decadence.
• Fresh Fruit: Slices of banana, apple, or berries can add freshness and a pop of color to your pudding.
• Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar: A drizzle of these natural sweeteners can enhance the sweetness while adding a beautiful sheen.
• Caramel Sauce: Vegan caramel sauce can provide an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.

Can I Use Homemade Pumpkin Puree Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned. To make your own, simply roast fresh pumpkin until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. This option allows for greater control over the flavor and texture, ensuring it’s fresh and free from preservatives.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

The original recipe is already gluten-free as it uses cornstarch as a thickening agent. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, such as toppings or sweeteners, are certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.

What’s the Best Dairy-Free Milk to Use for the Creamiest Pudding?

For the creamiest pudding, oat milk is often recommended due to its rich texture. Other good options include soy milk and coconut milk, though coconut milk will impart its flavor into the pudding. Avoid using very thin milks like rice milk, as they may result in a less creamy consistency.

Can I Substitute the Cornstarch with Another Thickening Agent?

Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with other thickening agents such as arrowroot starch or tapioca starch. Both work well in vegan pudding recipes; however, arrowroot may yield a slightly more gelatinous texture compared to cornstarch’s smooth finish. Adjust quantities as needed since different thickeners may have varying thickening powers.