Creamy & Healthy: The Ultimate No-Bake Vegan Banana Pudding Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s not only incredibly delicious but also aligns with a healthy lifestyle, look no further than this exquisite Vegan Banana Pudding. This delightful treat offers the classic comfort of banana pudding without any dairy or gluten, making it a perfect indulgence for everyone.

Crafted with simple, wholesome, and raw ingredients, this recipe transforms ripe bananas into a creamy, guilt-free masterpiece. It’s a wonderful option for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a nourishing dessert that feels utterly decadent.

Our Raw Banana Pudding begins with a velvety smooth blend of raw, ripe bananas and soaked cashews, creating a rich and naturally sweet base. This luscious pudding is then beautifully layered with airy coconut whipped cream and a unique raw nutty “cookie” dough, made from wholesome walnuts and sweet dates. Each layer contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures, ensuring every spoonful is a pure delight.

Please note that as presented, this banana pudding recipe accounts for 14 WW points per serving, primarily due to the generous layer of coconut whipped cream. However, if you prefer a lighter option, you can easily reduce the points by 6 per serving by skipping the coconut cream or substituting it with a zero-point Greek yogurt alternative for non-vegan versions.

Whether you follow a vegan diet, need a gluten-free option, or simply appreciate wholesome, unprocessed desserts, this Vegan Banana Pudding is a truly unique and satisfying choice. Prepare to discover your new favorite healthy dessert!

Why You Should Try This Vegan Banana Pudding Recipe

• Delicious Taste. This vegan banana pudding isn’t just “good for you” – it’s genuinely irresistible. It boasts a rich, incredibly creamy texture that melts in your mouth, infused with the natural sweetness and distinct tropical flavor of ripe bananas. The sweetness of the bananas and dates in the cookie dough is perfectly balanced by the subtle richness of the cashew-based pudding. Furthermore, the raw nutty “cookie” dough layer adds a delightful crunch and an earthy depth that elevates the entire dessert. It’s also remarkably versatile, allowing for customization with various toppings and mix-ins like fresh berries, vegan chocolate chips, or additional nuts, letting you tailor it to your exact cravings. The combination of smooth pudding, airy cream, and crunchy dough creates a multi-dimensional experience that will leave you wanting more.
• Health Benefits. Unlike traditional puddings often laden with refined sugars and dairy, this vegan banana pudding is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s made from whole, unprocessed plant-based ingredients, which means it retains more natural vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Bananas, the star ingredient, are an excellent source of vitamins B6 and C, crucial for immunity and energy, as well as essential minerals like potassium (beneficial for heart health and blood pressure) and magnesium. Their natural sugars provide a healthy energy boost, making this a perfect pre- or post-workout snack. Moreover, bananas are packed with antioxidants and compounds that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. The cashews contribute healthy fats and protein, while dates offer natural sweetness and additional fiber. Walnuts are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for supporting brain health. Enjoy a dessert that truly nourishes your body!
• Easy to Make. Forget complicated baking processes and endless dishes. This vegan banana pudding is incredibly simple to prepare and requires absolutely no cooking! All you need is a food processor or a high-speed blender to effortlessly combine the ingredients. The process involves blending, layering, and then chilling the dessert in the refrigerator for just a few hours. This hands-off chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the pudding to set into its perfect creamy consistency. The result is a dreamy, elegant dessert that looks impressive but takes minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Vegan Banana Pudding Recipe Overview

Before you dive into making this delightful treat, here’s a quick summary of the preparation and chilling times:

Prep time: 15 min

Chilling time: 1 hour

Total time: 1 hour 15 min

Serves: 4

Ingredients for Vegan Banana Pudding:

Gather these fresh, simple, and wholesome ingredients to create your irresistible plant-based banana pudding:

• 3/4 cup cashews, soaked overnight (essential for that extra creamy texture!)
• 3 medium ripe bananas (look for yellow with brown spots for optimal sweetness)
• 1/2 vanilla bean, scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla extract for convenience)
• 2 tbsp agave syrup (optional, adjust to your desired sweetness level)
• 1 cup fresh dates, pitted (Medjool dates work wonderfully for their soft texture)
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, to taste
• Freshly grated nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
• 1/2 cup coconut whipped cream (ensure it’s chilled for best whipping results)

How to make Vegan Banana Pudding Recipe (step by step):

Creating this no-bake vegan banana pudding is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat:

1. Prepare the Pudding Base: Begin by making the smooth and creamy pudding layer. In your high-speed blender or food processor, combine the pre-soaked cashews (ensure they are thoroughly drained), two of the ripe bananas, and the scraped vanilla bean (or vanilla extract). Blend these ingredients until the mixture is completely creamy, smooth, and uniform – you want no cashew chunks visible. If you’re using agave syrup for extra sweetness, add it now and process for another 10 seconds to fully incorporate. Set this luxurious pudding mixture aside.
2. Craft the Raw “Cookie” Dough: Next, create the delightful nutty layer that adds both texture and flavor. In a clean food processor, combine the pitted fresh dates, walnuts, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg (if you’re including it). Process these ingredients until they come together and form a sticky, pliable dough. The dates act as a natural binder and sweetener, while the walnuts provide a pleasant crunch and earthy note. This dough adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy pudding.
3. Begin Assembling the Dessert: Now for the creative part – assembling your beautiful layered dessert! Choose individual dessert glasses, jars, or a single trifle dish if you’re serving a crowd. Start by spooning a generous layer of your freshly prepared banana cashew pudding into the bottom of each serving vessel. Ensure an even base, as this will be the foundation of your pudding.
4. Layer with Cream, Cookie Dough, and Bananas: On top of the pudding layer, add a delicate layer of chilled coconut whipped cream. This provides an airy lightness that complements the dense pudding. Next, crumble or spoon a layer of your raw cookie dough mixture over the cream. Finally, thinly slice the remaining banana and arrange a layer of fresh banana slices on top of the cookie dough. Repeat this layering process – pudding, coconut cream, cookie dough, and sliced banana – until you have used all of your ingredients, making sure to finish with an inviting layer of coconut whipped cream on top for a beautiful presentation. For best results, chill the assembled puddings for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Nutrition Facts:

(Optional ingredients are not included)

Amount per 171 g = 1 serving | Calories: 425kcal | Carbohydrates: 45.3g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 27.1g | Saturated Fat: 11.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5.6g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 735mg | Fiber: 6.1g | Sugar: 25.7g | Vitamin C: 8.9mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 2.7mg

Vegan Banana Pudding Variations/Substitutions

One of the joys of cooking is customization! This vegan banana pudding recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to experiment with flavors and textures to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fantastic variations and substitutions you can try:

• Whipped Cream Alternatives: While coconut whipped cream adds a luscious, tropical touch, you can certainly substitute it with other plant-based creams. Consider whipped aquafaba for a lighter, airy meringue-like topping, or a cashew cream (made by blending soaked cashews with a little plant milk and sweetener) for a richer, denser layer. Always be mindful of the calorie and WW point implications when making substitutions.
• Nut-Free Pudding Base: If cashews aren’t an option, raw sunflower seeds make an excellent nut-free alternative for the pudding base. Soak them just as you would cashews to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. For those who enjoy nuts but want a different flavor, raw macadamia nuts can also create an incredibly rich and decadent pudding.
• Boost with Chia Seeds: For an added nutritional punch, stir 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds into your mashed banana and pudding mixture. Chia seeds will absorb liquid and thicken the pudding further, providing a boost of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. This creates a slightly different, thicker texture and enhances the health benefits.
• Simplified Nutty Layer: If you’re short on time or prefer a simpler dessert, you don’t have to make the raw cookie dough layer from scratch. Instead, add a spoonful of your favorite natural peanut butter or almond butter directly into your pudding mixture for a delicious, quick nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bananas. Alternatively, simply sprinkle some chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) between the layers for an easy crunch.
• Spice it Up: Enhance the warm, comforting flavors by sprinkling additional ground cinnamon generously on top of your pudding, or by incorporating a pinch of other complementary spices. Consider a dash of ground ginger, cardamom, or even a touch of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
• Chocoholic’s Dream: For a decadent and indulgent twist, sprinkle some vegan chocolate chips, cacao nibs, or even finely grated dark chocolate on top of your pudding layers. A drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce can also elevate this dessert to new heights.
• Fresh Fruit Fiesta: Top your Raw Banana Pudding with an assortment of fresh berries or other sliced fruits for a healthy, vibrant, and colorful addition. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, mango, kiwi, or even passion fruit pulp can add a refreshing tartness and beautiful presentation.
• Toasted Coconut: Lightly toast some shredded coconut in a dry pan until golden brown, then sprinkle it over the top layer for an added depth of flavor and a lovely textural contrast.

Tips and Tricks for Making Raw Banana Pudding

Achieving the perfect raw banana pudding is all about attention to detail. These tips and tricks will help you create a consistently delicious and beautifully presented dessert every time:

• Choose the Right Bananas: The key to a naturally sweet and easily blendable pudding lies in using very ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are yellow with plenty of brown spots on the peel; these are at their peak sweetness and have a softer texture, making them ideal for blending into a smooth consistency. Avoid green or firm yellow bananas, as they won’t provide the desired flavor or texture.
• Soak Cashews for Creaminess: Don’t skip soaking your cashews overnight (or for at least 4 hours). This softens them significantly, allowing them to blend into an incredibly silky and creamy pudding base. If you’re short on time, you can quick-soak them in hot water for about 30 minutes, then drain thoroughly. A high-speed blender is highly recommended for achieving the smoothest texture; if you’re using a standard blender, you might want to grind the cashews into a fine powder before blending with other ingredients.
• Fresh Dates are Best: For the cookie dough layer, use fresh, soft dates like Medjool dates. Their natural moisture and caramel-like flavor make them an excellent natural sweetener and binder. They blend easily and contribute to the perfect sticky dough texture. Dried, harder dates might require soaking in warm water for a few minutes before processing. Other natural sweeteners you can use in the pudding or cookie dough include maple syrup, agave nectar, or a small amount of coconut sugar.
• Nuts for Richness and Texture: Nuts are foundational to many raw desserts, providing healthy fats, protein, and a wonderful richness. Ensure your walnuts (or chosen nuts) are fresh. For an enhanced flavor, you can lightly toast them before adding them to the cookie dough, though this would technically make the “cookie” dough not entirely raw.
• Amplify Flavor with Spices and Extracts: Vanilla and cinnamon are classic pairings that add delicious warmth to this pudding. Feel free to experiment with other flavorings to suit your palate. A tiny pinch of ground cloves, star anise, or additional nutmeg can introduce a more complex spice profile. A few drops of almond extract or rum extract (non-alcoholic for a fully raw version) can also add an interesting depth.
• Decorate Creatively: Presentation makes a huge difference! Beyond sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut, consider adding a sprinkle of cacao nibs for a bitter contrast, a few fresh mint leaves for color, or even edible flowers for an elegant touch. Drizzling a little extra agave syrup or a light dusting of cocoa powder can also enhance the visual appeal.
• Crucial Chilling Time: This is a no-bake dessert, so chilling is vital. Refrigerate your pudding for at least 2 hours, or ideally 4 hours, before serving. This allows the pudding to fully thicken and firm up, and more importantly, it gives all the wonderful flavors a chance to meld and develop, resulting in a more harmonious and satisfying taste.
• Serve Chilled: Raw banana pudding is best enjoyed cold. Keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve. To prevent the sliced bananas in your layers or on top from turning brown due to oxidation, drizzle them lightly with freshly squeezed lemon juice just before assembling or serving. This simple trick helps maintain their appealing golden color.
• Use a Glass Dish: For a truly stunning presentation, serve your banana pudding in clear glass dessert cups, mason jars, or a trifle bowl. This allows the beautiful layers of creamy pudding, white coconut cream, nutty cookie dough, and fresh banana slices to be visible, making the dessert even more tempting and appetizing.
• Storage Solutions: Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve made a larger batch or want to prepare ahead, this pudding freezes surprisingly well! Store it in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
• Embrace Creativity: Raw desserts are all about healthy experimentation and culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients, swap out nuts, introduce different fruits, or blend in unique spices. The world of plant-based desserts is vast and exciting, and you never know what delightful new treats you might discover by being adventurous in your kitchen!

Related Recipes:

If you enjoyed this recipe and are looking for even more great vegan sweet treats, check out these delicious plant-based recipes:

• Strawberry Torte
• Vegan Creme Brulee
• Vegan Blueberry Muffins (No Bake Recipe)