Tropical Cassava Pudding

If you’re craving a rich, velvety dessert with tropical flair, Tropical Cassava Pudding is the perfect treat. Made with freshly grated cassava, coconut milk, and a hint of vanilla, this pudding is naturally sweet, beautifully smooth, and infused with flavors that transport you straight to the islands. Whether served warm or chilled, Tropical Cassava Pudding is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s both simple and unforgettable.

What makes Tropical Cassava Pudding special is the creamy texture and naturally complex flavors. Cassava provides a slightly chewy, satisfying bite, while coconut milk and a touch of sugar create a luscious balance of sweetness. Whether topped with toasted coconut, drizzled with caramel, or enjoyed as is, Tropical Cassava Pudding feels both traditional and fresh.

The first time I tasted Tropical Cassava Pudding, I was amazed by its depth of flavor. The tropical ingredients blended seamlessly, creating a dessert that felt nostalgic yet exciting. Since then, Tropical Cassava Pudding has been a staple whenever I want something rich, creamy, and uniquely delicious.

Now, I make Tropical Cassava Pudding regularly for gatherings, cozy evenings, or whenever I crave a taste of the tropics. Whether paired with fresh fruit, served alongside tea, or enjoyed on its own, Tropical Cassava Pudding is always a hit.

Tropical Cassava Pudding

Why You’ll Love Tropical Cassava Pudding

  • Creamy & Indulgent – Smooth, rich texture with a hint of chewiness.
  • Naturally Sweet – Coconut and cassava bring gentle, tropical sweetness.
  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, big flavors.
  • Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy warm, chilled, or with toppings.
  • Authentic Island Flavor – Perfect for those who love tropical desserts.
Tropical Cassava Pudding

Health Benefits of Tropical Cassava Pudding

  • Rich in Fiber – Supports digestion and gut health.
  • Naturally Dairy-Free – Coconut milk makes it a great alternative to dairy-based puddings.
  • Packed with Nutrients – Cassava provides essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Gluten-Free Option – A great choice for those avoiding wheat.
  • Energy-Boosting Carbs – Perfect for a satisfying, wholesome treat.

When to Make Tropical Cassava Pudding

  • Tropical-Themed Gatherings – A perfect island-inspired dessert.
  • Family Dessert – A comforting, homemade treat everyone will love.
  • Celebration Special – Great for holidays and festive occasions.
  • Anytime Indulgence – Because creamy, coconut-rich pudding is always a good idea.
  • Meal Prep Favorite – Stores well for an easy, ready-to-enjoy dessert.
Tropical Cassava Pudding

Chef’s Notes: Tropical Cassava Pudding

For best results, grate cassava and coconut fresh – Removing excess moisture ensures a firmer, more structured pudding.

Pair with indulgent toppings – Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped coconut cream, or a rich rum glaze for an extra treat.

Customize texture with mix-ins – Stir in chopped raisins, toasted nuts, or shredded carrots for added color and crunch.

Optimize storage for freshness – Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze slices for convenient make-ahead treats.

Adjust sweetness balance – Swap granulated sugar for maple syrup or coconut sugar for deeper flavor notes.

Ensure even moisture distribution – Thoroughly mix ingredients to avoid dry pockets in the pudding.

Use parchment paper for easy slicing – Lining the baking dish helps the pudding release cleanly when serving.

Enhance the spice profile – Increase cinnamon or add a touch of clove for a bolder, warm spice blend.

Experiment with citrus brightness – A squeeze of lime or a hint of orange zest adds fresh contrast to the richness.

Best served warm or at room temperature – Allow resting time before slicing for clean portions and balanced texture.

Tropical Cassava Pudding

0.0 from 0 votes
Course: DessertCuisine: JamaicanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes
Calories

550

kcal
Resting Time

15

minutes
Total time

2

hours 

Get ready to whisk yourself away to a sun-soaked island kitchen with this Tropical Cassava Pudding! Bursting with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, every bite feels like a Caribbean vacation. Whether you’re craving a make-ahead dessert for a dinner party or a cozy sweet treat, this recipe delivers on flavor and texture. It’s simple, customizable, and shows off the magic of cassava in a way you’ve never tasted before.

Ingredients

  • Starchy Base
  • 2 cups finely shredded cassava thawed if frozen (or use fresh, peeled and grated)

  • ½ cup freshly grated coconut or unsweetened desiccated coconut

  • Spice Blend
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • pinch about 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

  • Sweeteners Enrichments
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar cane or coconut sugar

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened (swap with vegan butter or ghee)

  • ¼ cup pure pumpkin puree or sweet potato mash

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ½ teaspoon almond extract

  • Liquids
  • ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or evaporated milk for creaminess

  • Alternative Ingredients
  • Cassava: swap fresh shred with 2 cups frozen grated cassava fully thawed

  • Coconut: use ½ cup desiccated coconut instead of fresh for longer shelf life

  • Sugar: replace granulated sugar with ¾ cup maple syrup reduce coconut milk by 2 Tbsp

  • Butter: sub coconut oil or ghee for a dairy-free or paleo twist

  • Pumpkin Puree: sweet potato mash works in a 1:1 ratio for different color and flavor

  • Coconut Milk: use evaporated milk or almond milk for lighter texture

  • Vanilla/Almond Extracts: swap almond extract for orange zest for citrus notes

Directions

  • Prep Roots Grains – In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cassava and grated coconut (about 2 minutes). Make sure cassava is completely thawed or freshly grated to ensure even moisture. Preheating the oven to 325°F while you prep saves time (2–3 minutes). Optional: line your 8×8-inch casserole dish with parchment paper for easier removal.tropical cassava pudding post1
  • Spice Sweeten – Melt butter briefly in a small saucepan or microwave (30 seconds), then whisk in sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth (1–2 minutes). Stir in each ground spice—cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves—so the warm oils bloom and deepen the flavor (about 1 minute). Educational note: blooming spices in fat releases their aromatic compounds more fully.
  • Combine Moisten – Pour the spiced sugar mixture over the cassava/coconut mixture. Drizzle in coconut milk and fold gently with a silicone spatula until everything is uniformly coated (2–3 minutes). You want a thick, scoopable batter; adjust with a tablespoon more coconut milk if it’s too dry or a pinch of shredded coconut if too loose.tropical cassava pudding post2 1
  • Bake Brown – Transfer the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Bake on the center rack at 325°F for 60 minutes, then increase to 350°F and continue baking for another 30 minutes until the top is golden and set (total 90 minutes). Educational tip: the pudding should feel firm to the touch but still yield slightly—avoid overbaking to keep it moist. Optional: broil at 375°F for 5–10 minutes for a deeper crust.
  • Rest Serve – Allow the pudding to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the structure firm up and makes cleaner cuts. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of rum sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top.Tropical Cassava Pudding

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Box Grater
  • Casserole Dish

Notes

  • • For best results, grate cassava and coconut fresh, then squeeze out excess moisture for a firmer texture.
    • Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped coconut cream, or a warm rum glaze for extra indulgence.
    • Stir in chopped raisins, toasted nuts, or a handful of shredded carrots for added color and crunch.
    • Leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze slices for convenient make-ahead treats.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 550kcal
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Potassium: 500mg
  • Carbohydrates: 80g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Vitamin A: 1250IU
  • Vitamin C: 2mg
  • Calcium: 40mg
  • Iron: 2mg

FAQs: Tropical Cassava Pudding

Can I use frozen cassava instead of fresh?

Yes! Just thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.

How long does this pudding stay fresh?

Store in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze portions for later.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter, and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

Sweet potato mash works well as a 1:1 replacement with similar texture and flavor.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Absolutely! Adjust sugar levels to taste, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.

Is this pudding gluten-free?

Yes! Cassava is naturally gluten-free, making this a great alternative dessert.

Can I serve this cold?

It’s best warm or at room temperature, but chilling firms it up slightly for a denser bite.

What’s a good topping suggestion?

Try toasted coconut flakes, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for added flair.

Can I bake this in a different type of dish?

An 8×8-inch casserole dish works best, but a deep pie pan or loaf pan will also do.

Is there a way to make it lighter?

Reduce coconut milk slightly or swap some butter for a lighter alternative like applesauce.

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