Rice Pudding with Cooked Rice – Easy, Creamy, and Homemade Dessert Recipe
Introduction
Rice pudding is one of those timeless comfort foods that instantly brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Whether it’s served warm on a chilly evening or chilled for a refreshing dessert, this dish has a way of making any day feel a little more special. What makes rice pudding so appealing is its simplicity, and when you already have cooked rice on hand, it becomes even easier to whip up a creamy, satisfying bowl in no time.
Home cooks around the world have their own versions of this humble dessert, and each one tells a story. Using leftover rice to create something indulgent is a smart and delicious way to reduce waste while feeding your sweet tooth. The soft texture of rice simmered gently in milk, sweetened to perfection and flavored with spices like cinnamon or vanilla, turns everyday ingredients into a heartwarming treat.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert fix or trying to make something homemade without much effort, this rice pudding recipe with cooked rice will become a favorite in your kitchen. You don’t need fancy tools or uncommon ingredients. Everything you need is probably already in your pantry or fridge.
Let’s dive into how you can make this classic dessert with cooked rice, step by step.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a breakdown of the ingredients along with their estimated calorie count per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked white rice | 1 cup | 205 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | 300 |
| Granulated sugar | ⅓ cup | 270 |
| Egg (optional for richness) | 1 large | 70 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Salt | Pinch | 0 |
| Butter (optional) | 1 tbsp | 102 |
| Raisins (optional) | ¼ cup | 108 |
Total Calories (approximate for full recipe): 1070
Calories per serving (based on 4 servings): ~267
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Gather all the ingredients. If you are using cold, leftover rice, break it up gently with a fork to avoid clumps in the pudding.
Step 2: Warm the milk
In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from scalding.
Step 3: Add the rice
Once the milk starts to steam, add the cooked rice. Stir well to make sure all the grains are fully immersed in the milk.
Step 4: Sweeten the pudding
Add sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously. As the rice absorbs the milk, the mixture will begin to thicken.
Step 5: Add richness (optional)
For a richer texture, whisk one egg in a separate bowl. Slowly temper the egg by adding a few spoonfuls of the hot rice mixture into it while stirring. Then slowly pour the egg mixture back into the pot. Keep stirring to avoid curdling.
Step 6: Flavor and finish
Once the pudding has reached your desired thickness (usually after 15 to 20 minutes of gentle simmering), remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter if using. Fold in raisins or any other dried fruits if you like.
Step 7: Let it rest
Allow the pudding to cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it rests. You can serve it warm or refrigerate for a few hours if you prefer it chilled.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Rice pudding is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general idea of the nutritional value per serving (based on 4 servings and standard ingredients):
The values can change based on ingredient choices, especially when swapping milk types or adding extras like chocolate or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Rice pudding can be served in so many delightful ways:
Rice Pudding with Cooked Rice – Easy, Creamy, and Homemade Dessert Recipe
Course: Blog4
servings5
minutes25
minutes~267 kcal
kcalIngredients
1 cup cooked white rice
2 cups whole milk
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
¼ cup raisins (optional)
Directions
- Heat the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam.
- Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Mix well.
- Add sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring often, for about 15 minutes or until it thickens.
- Optional step: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot mixture to the egg to temper it. Then, pour the egg mixture into the pan, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Once thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract, butter, and raisins if using.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. It will thicken more as it cools.
Recipe Video
Notes
- You can serve rice pudding warm or cold, depending on your preference. If it becomes too thick after chilling, simply stir in a splash of milk before serving. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite spices, fruits, or dairy-free alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it will have a firmer texture and nuttier flavor. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked and soft before adding.
Is rice pudding gluten-free?
Yes, rice pudding is naturally gluten-free, as long as none of the added ingredients contain gluten. Always double-check labels, especially for flavored milk or extracts.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Rice pudding stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. It thickens in the fridge, so add a splash of milk before reheating if needed.
How do I prevent the pudding from curdling when adding the egg?
Always temper the egg first by slowly mixing it with some hot pudding, then combine it with the rest while stirring constantly over low heat.
What if I don’t want to use sugar?
You can use honey, maple syrup, agave, or any sugar substitute. Adjust quantities to taste since some sweeteners are more intense than sugar.
Conclusion
Few desserts offer the warmth, comfort, and versatility of rice pudding made with cooked rice. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re using leftovers or making it from scratch, this dish delivers rich flavor and creamy texture every time.
