Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

Featured in: Comfort Food Cravings

This creamy dessert highlights the use of leftover cooked rice combined with milk and sugar for a smooth texture. Warm cinnamon adds a comforting aroma while gentle simmering thickens the mixture. Optional vanilla and butter enrich the flavor, with finishing touches including a sprinkle of cinnamon. Perfect served warm or chilled, it’s an easy and satisfying way to repurpose rice with a hint of sweetness.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:29:00 GMT
A warm bowl of creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a generous dusting of cinnamon. Save
A warm bowl of creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a generous dusting of cinnamon. | toastytongs.com

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

I first prepared this pudding when I had extra rice after dinner. To my delight it transformed into a rich sweet treat my family loved.

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 the cooked rice milk sugar and cinnamon.
Simmer:
Place over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
Thicken:
Lower the heat and cook uncovered stirring often for 15 to 20 minutes until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
Flavor and Finish:
Stir in vanilla extract salt and butter (if using) during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cool:
Remove from heat. Let cool slightly; pudding will thicken as it cools.
Serve:
Serve warm or chilled sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
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My kids call this comfort in a bowl and request it anytime we have extra rice waiting in the fridge.

Required Tools

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

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210 Total Fat: 4 g Carbohydrates: 40 g Protein: 5 g per serving

Notes & Variations

For extra creaminess use half-and-half or evaporated milk. Add raisins or dried fruit for a classic twist. Try toppings like chopped nuts honey or berries.

This delicious Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice features a velvety texture, perfect for a cozy dessert anytime. Save
This delicious Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice features a velvety texture, perfect for a cozy dessert anytime. | toastytongs.com

Enjoy this simple pudding warm after dinner or chilled for a comforting snack anytime.

Recipe FAQ

Can different types of rice be used?

Yes, white or jasmine rice works best for a smooth, creamy texture, but other cooked rice varieties can be used too.

How do I achieve the right consistency?

Simmer the mixture gently and stir often until it thickens to your desired creaminess, usually around 15-20 minutes.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Absolutely, you can reduce or increase sugar to suit your taste preferences without impacting the creamy base.

What are some flavor variations to consider?

Add dried fruits like raisins during cooking or top with nuts, honey, or fresh berries for extra texture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute milk with plant-based alternatives, but check labels to avoid additional flavors or allergens.

Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

A comforting creamy dessert using leftover rice, subtly sweetened and spiced with cinnamon.

Prep duration
5 min
Cook duration
20 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created By Daniel Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Heritage International

Output 4 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-Free, No Gluten

Components

Base

01 2 cups cooked leftover white or jasmine rice
02 2 cups whole milk
03 ⅓ 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

Directions

Phase 01

Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, stir together cooked rice, whole milk, sugar, and ground cinnamon.

Phase 02

Heat mixture: Place over medium heat and stir frequently until the mixture begins to gently simmer.

Phase 03

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

Phase 04

Add finishing touches: During the last 2 minutes, incorporate vanilla extract, salt, and butter if using; stir well.

Phase 05

Cool slightly: Remove from heat and let the pudding rest briefly to thicken further as it cools.

Phase 06

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

Tools needed

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

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with a healthcare professional if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy; verify plant-based milk labels if used.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are approximate guidelines only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 5 g