Description
Jamaican Cornmeal Pudding is a rich, spiced Caribbean dessert made with coconut milk and warming spices. Creamy on top and firm below, this easy recipe is perfect for cozy nights and festive gatherings. Try it now and enjoy a taste of the islands!
Ingredients
Cornmeal Pudding
3 cups fine yellow cornmeal
1½ tsp salt
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
6 cups coconut milk
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
½ cup (1 stick) butter
2 cups brown sugar
2 Tbsp dark or white rum (optional)
1 cup raisins (optional)
Soft Top
1 cup coconut milk
¼ cup brown sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep your pan & oven
Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 10‑inch springform or baking pan with butter and set aside. - Heat the wet base
In a medium pot over medium heat, combine coconut milk, butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot—avoid boiling. Remove from heat and cool slightly. - Whisk dry ingredients
Sift together cornmeal, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon into a large bowl. Whisk to combine evenly. - Combine everything
Stir rum into the warm liquid, if using. Gradually whisk the liquid into dry ingredients until smooth and lump-free. - Bake the pudding
Pour mixture into the greased pan. Optionally fold in raisins or sprinkle them on top. Bake for 20 minutes. - Make the soft layer
Whisk together coconut milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. - Finish baking
Remove the pan, stir gently to redistribute raisins, then pour the soft‑top mixture over the batter. Bake an additional 80 minutes (total bake time: ~100 minutes). Top should be custardy and underside firm. - Cool & serve
Let the pudding cool for about an hour, then remove the springform ring. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture.
Swap butter with vegan alternatives to make it dairy-free.
Store at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.
For added flair, top with pineapple chunks or toasted coconut flakes.
Freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 4g