Pengat Pisang is a beloved Malaysian dessert made by gently simmering ripe bananas in coconut milk and palm sugar until soft, fragrant, and naturally sweet. Often described as a banana-coconut stew, this dish is popular across Malaysia and parts of Southeast Asia, especially as a comforting home-style dessert served warm or at room temperature. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, pengat pisang is proof that traditional desserts don’t need refined sugar or elaborate techniques to feel indulgent. It’s commonly enjoyed after meals, during festive occasions, or as a soothing evening sweet paired with tea. Soft bananas, silky coconut milk, and warm jaggery notes come together to create a dessert that feels both nostalgic and timeless.
4–5Ripe bananas (pisang raja/nendran preferred, sliced thick)
1 cupThick coconut milk
½ cupThin coconut milk
½ cupPalm sugar (gula melaka), grated
¼ cupWater
1 (optional)Pandan leaf, knotted
a small pinchSalt