Vegan banana pudding cake is a rich, comforting dessert that brings together soft banana cake, creamy vegan pudding, and sweet memories from my kitchen. Hi, I’m Helen—the heart behind Easy Tasty Kitchen. I grew up cooking beside my mom, where food was more than meals—it was love and connection. This recipe is my plant-based twist on a Southern classic, made with simple ingredients and lots of heart. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just curious, this banana pudding cake vegan recipe is a delicious way to share something special with the people you love.
Table of Contents
Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
A rich, comforting vegan dessert that layers moist banana cake with creamy dairy-free pudding and fresh banana slices. A plant-based twist on a Southern classic that’s perfect for all eaters.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or neutral oil)
- ½ cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups plant-based milk (oat or almond)
- 3 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- ¼ cup organic cane sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of turmeric (optional)
- ½ ripe banana, mashed
- Fresh banana slices (for layering)
- Crushed vegan cookies or whipped coconut cream (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Start with the pudding: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk 2 cups plant milk, 3 tbsp cornstarch, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, pinch of turmeric, and ½ mashed banana until thickened (about 5–8 minutes). Cool and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven and mix wet ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, melted oil, milk, vinegar, and vanilla.
- Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar.
- Combine and bake: Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Pour into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Layer the cake: Layer cake slices, chilled pudding, and banana slices. Repeat layers to the top.
- Add toppings and chill: Top with crushed cookies or whipped coconut cream. Chill 1–2 hours before serving.
Notes
Use overripe bananas for best sweetness and texture. For extra flavor, drizzle maple syrup or add chopped nuts between layers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Understanding Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
What is a Vegan Banana Pudding Cake?
A vegan banana pudding cake is a dairy-free, egg-free dessert made with layers of moist banana cake, creamy vegan pudding, and fresh banana slices. It’s a compassionate take on the Southern classic, made entirely from plant-based ingredients.
Why It’s the Perfect Plant-Based Banana Dessert
This cake is rich, nostalgic, and perfect for any occasion. With natural sweetness from ripe bananas and creamy dairy-free pudding, it’s a crowd-pleasing plant-based banana dessert that even non-vegans will love.
Looking for More Banana Pudding Ideas?
If you loved this vegan banana pudding cake, you’re going to want to try these other delicious banana-infused treats:
- Banana Pudding Cupcakes – soft, moist, and perfect for parties
- Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars – a rich, creamy twist for cheesecake lovers
- Banana Pudding Cake Cups – layered perfection in individual servings
Key Ingredients for Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
Choosing Ripe Bananas for Natural Sweetness
The secret to a flavorful vegan banana pudding cake starts with the bananas. Always go for overripe bananas—the ones with brown spots. They’re sweeter, softer, and add incredible moisture to your cake without extra sugar. Plus, they help bind the batter in place of eggs, making this an ideal eggless banana cake base.
Best Dairy-Free Milk & Egg Substitutes
For a creamy, smooth texture without dairy, you’ll want a good plant-based milk. Almond, oat, or soy milk works great for both the pudding and cake. To replace eggs, try:
- Mashed banana (yes, more banana!)
- Flaxseed or chia eggs (1 tbsp seed + 3 tbsp water)
- Unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg)
Each one brings moisture and structure without compromising flavor. Coconut cream or cashew milk can add richness to the pudding layer if you want a thicker, more indulgent texture.
Step-by-Step Vegan Banana Pudding Cake Recipe
Preparing the Vegan Pudding Layer
Start with the pudding—it needs time to chill and set. For a creamy, dairy-free banana pudding, you’ll need:
- 2 cups plant-based milk (oat or almond milk works well)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a cleaner option)
- ¼ cup organic cane sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of turmeric (optional, for color)
- ½ ripe banana, mashed for flavor
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together all ingredients. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens—about 5–8 minutes. Once thick, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring to the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Baking the Eggless Banana Cake Base
Now, let’s make the moist, fluffy eggless banana cake layer. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or neutral oil)
- ½ cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oil, milk, vinegar, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar. Combine wet and dry ingredients and mix just until smooth.
Pour into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish or cake pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before layering with pudding.
How to Layer and Assemble the Perfect Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
Building Layers: Cake, Pudding, and More
To assemble your vegan banana pudding cake, start with a layer of cooled eggless banana cake, then spoon on some dairy-free banana pudding. Add a few banana slices, then repeat the layers until you reach the top.
Top it off with crushed vegan cookies or whipped coconut cream for texture and flavor.
Tips for an Aesthetic Finish and Flavor Balance
- Use a glass dish to show off the layers
- Chill for 1–2 hours before serving
- Add chopped nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup between layers for extra flavor
Expert Tips for Texture and Flavor
How to Make Vegan Cake More Fluffy
For a lighter vegan banana pudding cake, mix your batter gently, use apple cider vinegar with baking soda, and bake right away to trap air bubbles. A splash of seltzer water can also boost fluffiness in your eggless banana cake.
How to Make Vegan Pudding Thicker
To thicken dairy-free banana pudding, use cornstarch or arrowroot, simmer longer, and chill before layering. For added richness, blend in mashed banana or soaked cashews.
Storage and Shelf Life
How Long Does Vegan Banana Pudding Last?
Your vegan banana pudding cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 4 days in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep the moisture and flavor intact.
Best Containers and Storage Conditions
- Use a glass or BPA-free container with a secure lid
- Store it in the coldest part of your fridge
- Avoid freezing—it affects the texture of the pudding and fresh bananas
After day three, the bananas may start to brown slightly, but the flavor will still hold up.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Creative Ways to Serve Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, presentation matters. Try these serving ideas:
- Layer it in a trifle bowl for a beautiful, crowd-pleasing centerpiece
- Use mason jars or dessert cups for individual servings—perfect for parties
- Cut into neat squares and top with coconut whipped cream and banana chips
Ideal Toppings and Garnishes
Top your plant-based banana dessert with:
- Coconut whipped cream
- Crushed vegan vanilla wafers or granola
- Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
- A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg
These simple additions add both texture and visual appeal.
Health and Nutritional Insights
Is Vegan Banana Pudding Cake Healthy?
Compared to traditional versions, this vegan banana pudding cake is a better-for-you dessert. It’s made without heavy cream, eggs, or processed pudding mixes—just wholesome ingredients like bananas, plant milk, and natural sweeteners. It’s a great option for anyone seeking a dairy-free banana pudding cake that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Comparing Plant-Based and Traditional Banana Cakes
Let’s break it down:
Feature | Traditional Cake | Vegan Banana Pudding Cake |
---|---|---|
Dairy | Yes | No – uses plant-based milk |
Eggs | Yes | No – eggless banana cake |
Cholesterol | High | Zero |
Fiber | Low | Higher (bananas, whole grains) |
Suitable for Vegans | No | Yes |
This banana pudding cake vegan recipe delivers on comfort and health—without the guilt.
Variations and Creative Twists
Chocolate Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
For a richer take, add cocoa powder to your cake batter or layer in some vegan chocolate chips between the pudding and banana slices. It transforms your vegan banana pudding cake into a dreamy, chocolatey delight—perfect for special occasions.
Gluten-Free & Low-Sugar Alternatives
Need a lighter option? Try these tweaks:
- Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free baking mix or almond flour
- Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of refined sugar
- For a low-sugar pudding, skip added sweeteners and rely on ripe bananas
You can even make a no-bake version by layering vegan pudding, sliced bananas, and crushed cookies—no oven required!
Conclusion
Creating a vegan banana pudding cake isn’t just about skipping dairy and eggs—it’s about recreating a dessert full of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia in a way that everyone can enjoy. From ripe bananas and creamy dairy-free pudding to soft, fluffy eggless banana cake, every bite brings you closer to the flavors you love—just made plant-based.
Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this cake delivers on taste, texture, and heart. Try it for your next gathering, holiday dessert, or a weekend treat—and don’t forget to make it your own with creative toppings and personal twists.
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FAQs About Vegan Banana Pudding Cake
How long does vegan banana pudding last?
Vegan banana pudding cake lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Keep it tightly covered or stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For best texture and flavor, enjoy it within the first 48 hours. The bananas may darken slightly after day two, but it’s still safe and tasty to eat.
How to make vegan cake more fluffy?
To make your vegan banana pudding cake fluffy, use apple cider vinegar combined with baking soda for lift, avoid overmixing the batter, and bake immediately after mixing. You can also add a splash of sparkling water or use whipped aquafaba for extra lightness.
How to make vegan pudding thicker?
To thicken dairy-free banana pudding, use 2–3 tablespoons of cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or tapioca starch. Simmer the mixture until thickened, then chill it for at least 1 hour. For a richer texture, blend in mashed bananas or soaked cashews before cooling.