14 Rice Pudding Recipes That Turn Leftover Rice Into Dessert Gold – because no grain should go to waste when it can become something magical. That container of leftover rice sitting in your fridge? It’s not just tomorrow’s side dish—it’s the foundation for creamy, dreamy desserts that will make you wonder why you ever made rice pudding any other way. From classic stovetop versions that taste like grandma used to make to innovative baked and chilled creations, these recipes transform humble cooked rice into rich, comforting treats that satisfy every sweet craving.
Imagine stirring a pot of cinnamon-kissed pudding that fills your kitchen with warm, vanilla-scented air, or pulling a golden-brown rice pudding brûlée from the oven with that perfect crackly sugar top. Whether you prefer your pudding thick and hearty or light and creamy, studded with raisins or swirled with fruit compote, we’ve got versions to suit every taste and occasion. These recipes prove that with just a few pantry staples and that leftover rice, you’re never more than 30 minutes away from dessert heaven.
Classic Creamy Rice Pudding
This Classic Creamy Rice Pudding is a delightful way to turn your leftover rice into a comforting dessert. With its velvety texture and sweet, creamy flavor, it’s a simple treat that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll find it’s not only easy to whip up, but it also brings a warm, nostalgic feeling that many will love.
The sweetness of the pudding pairs beautifully with a hint of cinnamon, making every spoonful a delightful experience. Whether topped with raisins or served plain, this rice pudding is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste while treating yourself!
Maple and Cinnamon Rice Pudding
Maple and cinnamon rice pudding is a cozy and delightful dessert that transforms leftover rice into something special. The warm notes of cinnamon combine perfectly with the sweet drizzle of maple syrup, creating a comforting dish that’s simple to whip up and satisfying to enjoy. You’ll love how easy it is to make this sweet treat, turning your kitchen into a fragrant haven.
This rice pudding is not just about taste; it’s also about texture. The creamy rice, infused with maple and cinnamon, offers a wonderful contrast to the smooth syrup on top. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a sweet finish to any meal, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: additional maple syrup and cinnamon for serving
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup. Let it cool slightly.
- Serve warm or chilled, drizzling additional maple syrup and sprinkling extra cinnamon on top if desired.
Lemon Zest Rice Pudding
Lemon Zest Rice Pudding is a refreshing twist on a traditional dessert. It combines creamy rice pudding with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect option for both experienced cooks and beginners.
The addition of lemon zest gives this pudding a unique character, transforming leftover rice into a sweet treat that feels light and invigorating. Serve it warm or chilled, garnished with fresh mint or additional lemon slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thicker pudding)
Instructions
- Combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly, about 15-20 minutes.
- If using cornstarch, dissolve it in a little cold milk and add it to the rice mixture, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- Let the rice pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled, garnished with additional lemon slices or mint leaves.
Coconut Milk Rice Pudding
Coconut milk rice pudding is a creamy delight that transforms leftover rice into a comforting dessert. With its rich coconut flavor and a hint of sweetness, this dish is both satisfying and easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion.
The texture is silky and smooth, and it can be topped with fresh fruits, nuts, or toasted coconut for added crunch. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl and is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup diced mango (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons toasted coconut (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, coconut milk, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve warm in bowls and top with diced mango and toasted coconut before enjoying!
Almond Joy Rice Pudding
This Almond Joy Rice Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. It combines creamy, comforting rice pudding with the rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and almonds, making it taste like a treat straight from the candy aisle. Simple to prepare, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice while satisfying your sweet tooth.
The combination of sweetened coconut, chocolate chips, and crunchy almonds creates a wonderful texture and flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to turn an ordinary ingredient into something extraordinary!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is warm and begins to thicken.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and shredded coconut. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the chocolate chips and sliced almonds.
- Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours.
- Top with extra chocolate chips and almonds before serving, if desired.
Berry-Infused Rice Pudding
Berry-infused rice pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, transforming leftover rice into a sweet treat that’s bursting with flavor. Combining creamy rice with fresh berries creates a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of the creamy pudding and the tartness of berries makes each spoonful a delightful experience.
This recipe is simple to make, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dessert that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Let’s get right into the ingredients you’ll need and how to make this berry-infused delight!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix cooked rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Mixture: Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture starts to simmer. If you prefer a thicker pudding, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and add it to the saucepan, stirring until thickened.
- Add Berries: Once the pudding reaches your desired consistency, gently fold in the mixed berries. Allow to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the berries.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with mint leaves if desired.
Chocolate Rice Pudding Delight
Chocolate Rice Pudding Delight is a rich and creamy dessert that transforms leftover rice into a sweet treat. With its velvety texture and a deep chocolate flavor, it’s a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth. This dessert is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a perfect option for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.
The combination of chocolate and rice creates a delightful contrast, while a hint of vanilla adds depth to the flavor. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, this indulgent dessert is sure to impress anyone. Let’s dive into how to make this chocolatey goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Whipped cream for topping
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring frequently.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add this to the pudding mixture, stirring continuously.
- Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency, stirring often.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Dish into serving bowls, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Enjoy!
Matcha Green Tea Rice Pudding
Matcha green tea rice pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The earthy flavor of matcha blends perfectly with creamy rice pudding, creating a soothing and unique treat. It’s simple to make and perfect for using up leftover rice, turning it into something special.
This dessert is not just tasty but also visually appealing with its vibrant green hue. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to impress anyone with its subtle sweetness and aromatic matcha. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up!
Ingredients
- 1 cup leftover cooked rice
- 2 cups milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker pudding)
- Whipped cream or coconut cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well.
- Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- In a small bowl, mix the matcha powder with a few tablespoons of the warm rice pudding mixture to create a smooth paste. Then, stir this paste back into the saucepan.
- If you want a thicker pudding, mix cornstarch with a little cold water and add it to the mixture, cooking for another few minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream or coconut cream, if desired.
Pumpkin Spice Rice Pudding
This Pumpkin Spice Rice Pudding is a cozy dessert that perfectly blends the creamy goodness of rice pudding with the warm flavors of fall. It’s simple to whip up, making it an excellent choice for those chilly evenings when you want something sweet and comforting. The combination of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a delightful and nostalgic taste that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Not only is this pudding tasty, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels celebratory and special.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- Chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and is creamy, about 15-20 minutes.
- If you’re using raisins, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Once the pudding reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Serve warm or chilled, topped with chopped nuts if desired.
Tropical Pineapple Coconut Rice Pudding
Tropical Pineapple Coconut Rice Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the creaminess of rice pudding with the tropical flavors of coconut and pineapple. This dish is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to use up any leftover rice. The creamy texture, paired with a hint of sweetness from the pineapple, makes it a satisfying treat for any occasion.
This pudding is perfect for warm days or whenever you need a taste of the tropics. With its light and refreshing taste, it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Let’s dive into the simple recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the cooked rice, coconut milk, milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until the mixture thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and crushed pineapple.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or chilled, topped with shredded coconut if desired.
Caramel Swirl Rice Pudding
Caramel Swirl Rice Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional rice pudding that combines creamy textures with sweet, rich flavors. This dessert is perfect for using up leftover rice and will have you savoring every spoonful. With its luscious caramel sauce drizzled on top, this dish is both comforting and indulgent.
Making this dessert is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks. You’ll love how the warm pudding contrasts with the cool caramel, creating a treat that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Once it starts to thicken, reduce heat to low and stir in vanilla extract and butter. Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the pudding reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top while serving, and add nuts for a little crunch, if desired.
- Serve warm or chilled, and enjoy your rich and creamy caramel swirl rice pudding!
Peanut Butter Banana Rice Pudding
Peanut Butter Banana Rice Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Creamy, sweet, and packed with banana goodness, this dish transforms leftover rice into a comforting treat. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of day—whether for breakfast or a cozy evening dessert.
The combination of peanut butter and banana adds a rich flavor that is both satisfying and indulgent. You’ll love how the savory notes of peanut butter blend with the sweetness of ripe bananas, making every bite a little piece of heaven.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Optional: honey or maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Add peanut butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon while stirring until well mixed.
- Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and fold in the sliced bananas.
- Serve warm or chilled, drizzled with honey or maple syrup if desired.
Chai-Spiced Rice Pudding
Chai-Spiced Rice Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional rice pudding that brings warm, cozy flavors to your dessert table. Combining the creaminess of rice pudding with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, it offers a comforting and indulgent treat. This recipe is simple and perfect for using up any leftover rice while satisfying your sweet tooth.
The chai spices infuse the pudding with a delightful warmth, making each bite feel like a hug. Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this dessert is not only easy to make but also a showstopper for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture starts to simmer.
- Add the cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Stir well and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pudding thickens.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and raisins, if using, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Nutty Hazelnut Rice Pudding
Nuts add a delightful crunch and a unique flavor to traditional rice pudding, and hazelnuts are no exception. This Nutty Hazelnut Rice Pudding is creamy, rich, and deliciously simple to make. The combination of smooth rice pudding with roasted hazelnuts creates a dessert that’s not only satisfying but also a lovely way to repurpose leftover rice.
The sweet and earthy taste of hazelnuts pairs beautifully with the creamy rice base, making each spoonful a delightful treat. Whether you’re enjoying it warm or chilled, this pudding is sure to impress. Let’s get started with the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until simmering.
- If you prefer a thicker pudding, mix the cornstarch with a little cold milk to create a slurry, and stir it into the rice mixture. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Spoon the pudding into bowls and top with toasted hazelnuts and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
- Enjoy warm or refrigerate for later!
Final Thoughts
Rice pudding is the ultimate comfort food alchemy—turning the ordinary into the extraordinary with just a bit of milk, sugar, and imagination. What makes these recipes truly special is how they honor tradition while leaving room for creativity, whether you’re adding a splash of bourbon, topping with tropical fruits, or experimenting with different rice varieties. As you try these versions, you’ll discover that the best desserts often come from the most unexpected places—like that forgotten takeout rice or the extra grains from last night’s dinner. So the next time you find yourself with leftover rice, remember: you’re not looking at scraps, you’re holding the key to something deliciously sweet.