Creamy Leftover Rice Pudding

Featured in: Quick Sweet Fixes

This creamy pudding transforms leftover rice into a smooth, comforting dessert, gently sweetened and flavored with cinnamon. Simmered with milk and sugar, it thickens to a luscious texture, enhanced by optional vanilla and butter. Served warm or chilled, it’s a simple, wholesome dish perfect for using up rice while enjoying cozy flavors. Variations include adding dried fruit or nuts for extra richness and texture.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:48:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a generous dusting of cinnamon. Pin it
Steaming bowl of Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a generous dusting of cinnamon. | weeknightwhisk.com

A creamy comforting dessert made from leftover rice gently sweetened with sugar and infused with warm cinnamon.

I first made this rice pudding after dinner when extra rice lingered in the fridge and everyone wanted something sweet. It came together in minutes and filled the kitchen with cozy aromas.

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 combine cooked rice milk sugar and cinnamon.
Simmer:
Place over medium heat and stir frequently until mixture reaches a gentle simmer.
Thicken:
Lower heat and cook uncovered stirring often for 15–20 minutes until pudding thickens.
Add Flavorings:
Stir in vanilla extract salt and butter (if using) for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Rest:
Remove from heat allow to cool slightly pudding thickens further as it cools.
Serve:
Serve warm or chilled sprinkle with extra cinnamon.
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This rice pudding is always a hit at our family gatherings especially when children decorate theirs with sprinkles or berries.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan wooden spoon or spatula measuring cups and spoons serving bowls

Allergen Information

Contains milk double-check labels if using plant-based milk or flavored ingredients

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides about 210 calories 4 g total fat 40 g carbohydrates and 5 g protein

Creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, perfectly portioned, ready to be enjoyed warm on a winter's night. Pin it
Creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, perfectly portioned, ready to be enjoyed warm on a winter's night. | weeknightwhisk.com

Rice pudding makes a simple comfort dessert with easy ingredients—enjoy yours warm or chilled.

Common Questions

Can I use any type of rice for this pudding?

While cooked white or jasmine rice works best for a creamy texture, other leftover rice types can be used though the consistency may vary.

How can I adjust the sweetness?

Sweetness can be tailored by adjusting the amount of sugar or adding natural sweeteners to suit your taste preferences.

Is it necessary to cook the pudding uncovered?

Cooking uncovered helps the mixture thicken by allowing some liquid to evaporate, ensuring a smooth, rich consistency.

Can I substitute milk with plant-based alternatives?

Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat can replace dairy milk, though the flavor and creaminess might differ slightly.

What are some popular toppings or mix-ins?

Popular additions include raisins, dried fruit, chopped nuts, honey, or fresh berries to add texture and flavor contrasts.

Creamy Leftover Rice Pudding

A creamy dessert blending leftover rice with milk and cinnamon for a warm comforting treat.

Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
20 min
Time Needed
25 min
Created by Ella Thompson

Dish Type Quick Sweet Fixes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine International

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info Meat-Free, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Base

01 2 cups cooked leftover white or jasmine rice
02 2 cups whole milk
03 1/3 cup granulated sugar

Flavorings

01 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
02 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Finish

01 Pinch of salt
02 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
03 Ground cinnamon for garnish

Step-by-Step

Step 01

Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix cooked rice, milk, sugar, and ground cinnamon.

Step 02

Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently until it reaches a gentle simmer.

Step 03

Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low, cook uncovered, stirring often, for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened to desired consistency.

Step 04

Add Final Flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and butter during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Step 05

Cool Slightly: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly; pudding will continue to thicken.

Step 06

Serve: Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with additional ground cinnamon.

Tools Required

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls

Allergy Notice

Go through every ingredient to identify allergens and talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
  • Contains milk (dairy). Verify labels if using plant-based milks or flavored ingredients.

Nutrition Information (per portion)

Nutrition details are for general reference and shouldn't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Caloric Content: 210
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 5 g