Pin It A creamy, comforting dessert made from leftover rice, gently sweetened with sugar and infused with warm cinnamon.
I first made rice pudding with leftover rice after a family dinner, and it was a fast favorite. There's something so relaxing about simmering everything together into a warm treat on chilly nights.
Ingredients
- Cooked leftover rice: 2 cups (white or jasmine preferred)
- Whole milk: 2 cups (or any milk of choice)
- Granulated sugar: 1/3 cup
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (optional)
- Salt: Pinch
- Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp (optional)
- Ground cinnamon: For garnish
Instructions
- Combine ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, add cooked rice, milk, sugar and cinnamon.
- Simmer:
- Place on medium heat. Stir frequently until gently simmering.
- Thicken:
- Lower heat and cook uncovered, stirring often, for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
- Finish flavor:
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt and butter (if using) for last 2 minutes.
- Cool:
- Remove from heat. Let cool slightly; pudding thickens as it cools.
- Garnish and serve:
- Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
Pin It 
Pin It My kids always ask for seconds when we make this rice pudding after weeknight dinners. It's a tradition now to enjoy it together, sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
Notes & Variations
For extra creaminess, use half-and-half or evaporated milk for part of the liquid. Try stirring in raisins or dried fruit for classic texture, and top with nuts, honey or berries for variation.
Required Tools
You'll need a medium saucepan, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and serving bowls.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 210, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 40 g, Protein 5 g.
Pin It 
Pin It This rice pudding is great served warm or chilled, and it's perfect for easy family desserts any night of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different types of rice?
Yes, white or jasmine rice works best for a creamy texture, but other cooked rice varieties can be used.
- → How can I make it richer?
Substitute half the milk with half-and-half or evaporated milk for extra creaminess.
- → Is it served warm or cold?
This dessert can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Top with ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, honey, or fresh berries for added flavor and texture.
- → Can I add dried fruits?
Yes, adding raisins or dried fruit during the last 5 minutes of cooking adds a classic twist.