Name: Easy Rice Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked rice (Any kind of rice will work; medium-grain is preferred for creaminess.); 1.5 cups milk (Whole milk is best, but dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk can be used.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor, or substitute with a splash of almond extract.); a couple pinches cinnamon (Nutmeg or allspice can be substituted for variation.); as desired fresh fruit or nuts for topping (Toppings like berries, apple slices, or chopped almonds/walnuts add flavor and nutrition.)

This rice pudding (with leftover rice) comes together in about 30 minutes and is made in one pot for a quick dessert that your family will love! You can easily switch up the flavors and toppings to suit your taste, or make it a fun way to clean out the fridge and use up those odds and ends. Think of it as a blank canvas for deliciousness!

The Basics: Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the delightful elements that go into making this comforting dish. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

1. 1 cup cooked rice

2. 1 ½ cups milk

3. 1 tsp vanilla extract

4. A couple pinches of cinnamon

5. Fresh fruit or nuts for topping

Let’s Get Cooking!

How to Make Easy Rice Pudding

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients (and maybe snacked on a little bit of creaminess while measuring), it’s time to transform them into a heavenly rice pudding!

Combine the cooked rice, milk, and vanilla in a medium saucepan over low heat. As you stir occasionally, feel free to enjoy the soothing sounds of the rice soaking up that milky goodness seriously, it’s like a warm hug for your kitchen!
Cook the mixture for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently until almost all the milk is absorbed. The smell, oh my goodness! It will have you dreaming of cozy winter evenings.
Cover the pot with a lid and allow it to sit for about 5 more minutes. This little steaming step transforms your pudding from good to later-you-can’t-stop-eating-this amazing!
Serve! Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and your favorite fruits or nuts. You can dive in right away or let it cool a bit, because let’s be real, waiting is the hardest part.

And That’s It!

This dish is not only quick, but it’s also a fantastic way to turn those odds and ends into something special. Honestly, it feels like a warm bowl of nostalgia.

Why I Love This Recipe

This is my go-to recipe when I need a quick dessert that hits the spot every time. I’m a real sucker for creamy comfort food, and rice pudding absolutely checks all those boxes! The best part is this recipe is so versatile; you can use whatever you have on hand, meaning I can whip this up without a trip to the grocery store. My picky eight-year-old actually asked for seconds the last time I made this, and trust me, that’s saying a lot!

If you loved this rice pudding, be sure to check out my Banana Chia Pudding, my Gingerbread Pudding Cake, or my Strawberry Banana Pudding!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This delicious rice pudding comes together in under 30 minutes! With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful dessert in no time, ideal for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.

One Pot Wonders

Comes together all in one pot, and that means minimal cleanup! This is particularly great if you’re like me and prefer to spend more time enjoying dessert rather than washing dishes.

Customizable Delight

The beauty of this rice pudding is in its customizability! Feel free to switch up the ingredients. Want to try coconut milk for a tropical twist? Go for it! How about a bit of chocolate? Yes, please!

Budget-Friendly

Using leftover rice and simple pantry staples? Affordable everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank; this is the secret to deliciously frugal cooking, right here!

Comfort Food Magic

Rice pudding is loaded with comfort, perfect for those cozy nights in. It reminds you of home, warmth, and a little bit of sweetness.

Serving & Storage Tips

How to Serve This Easy Rice Pudding

Sure, you can enjoy it straight from the pot, but why stop there? Consider serving it in stylish bowls, topped with colorful fruits or a drizzle of honey for a touch of elegance. The pleasing presentation goes a long way in making this dessert feel like a special treat!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days if there are leftovers, that is! This dish loves to be made ahead, and the flavors deepen beautifully after the first day, so keep that in mind when planning.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to dig in again, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to return some creaminess as it warms. You could also pop it in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time. Just be sure to stir it up to avoid any hot spots!

Freezer-Friendly?

Now, in case you’ve made a big batch and want to freeze some for later yes, you can! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers, allow it to cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for that deliciousness, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Food is really about bringing people together, you know? This easy rice pudding captures those warm, cozy vibes beautifully. Plus, it’s totally adaptable to whatever ingredients you want to use. So next time you’ve got some leftover rice, don’t just let it sit, transform it into this comforting, delightful rice pudding that your family will beg you to make again!

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into making your very own, and let me know how you personalize it! Now off you go, happy cooking and even happier eating! Follow us on Pinterest for daily baking inspiration!