Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe

RECIPESDINNER RECIPES

2/27/20253 min read

Coconut rice pudding is one of those cozy desserts that makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a warm blanket, no matter the season.

It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and has a tropical twist from the coconut milk.

Plus, it’s super easy to make, and you only need a few ingredients to whip up a bowl of comfort.

If you’re looking for something simple, satisfying, and a little bit different, here’s how you can make your own coconut rice pudding at home!

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 cup white rice (preferably short-grain for extra creaminess)

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (the full-fat kind works best for richness)

  • 2 cups milk (you can use any kind—dairy or non-dairy)

  • 1/2 cup sugar (you can adjust depending on how sweet you like it)

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • A pinch of salt

  • Optional toppings: toasted coconut flakes, cinnamon, or fruit (like mango or berries)

How to Make It:

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. This helps remove extra starch, which can make your pudding too sticky. Give it a quick rinse until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium-sized pot, add the rinsed rice, 2 cups of milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once it’s boiling, turn the heat down to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is soft and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add the Coconut Milk and Sugar

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the coconut milk and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer again, and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pudding thickens up and gets nice and creamy.

Step 4: Add Vanilla

Once the pudding is thick and creamy, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor kick.

Step 5: Let It Cool and Thicken

The pudding will thicken even more as it cools, so give it a few minutes to sit before serving. If it gets too thick for your liking, you can add a little more milk to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve and Top It Off

Spoon the coconut rice pudding into bowls. If you’re feeling fancy, top it with toasted coconut flakes, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even some fresh fruit like mango or berries.

Tips for the Best Coconut Rice Pudding:

  • Rice Choice: Short-grain rice works best because it’s extra sticky and gives the pudding a creamy texture. If you’re using long-grain rice, your pudding might be a little less creamy.

  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you like your pudding sweeter, you can add more sugar. For a healthier version, try using honey or maple syrup instead!

  • Storage: You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just stir it before serving—it may thicken a bit in the fridge, so you might need to add a splash of milk to get it back to the right consistency.

Coconut rice pudding is one of those desserts that feels special but is actually super simple to make.

It’s perfect for when you need something comforting and flavorful, and it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves coconut! Enjoy!💖👇✨