Leftover Rice Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Leftover rice pudding is a comforting and simple way to transform leftover rice into a creamy dessert. With warm cinnamon and sweet vanilla, this classic treat is perfect served warm or chilled.

Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked leftover rice
- 2 cups milk
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for optional garnish)
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Raisins (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the leftover rice, milk, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir to mix evenly.
- Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Heat the mixture until small bubbles appear around the edges, then reduce the heat to low and stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Continue cooking for 15-20 minutes, stirring often, until the pudding thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Spoon the pudding into serving bowls. Add raisins if desired, and sprinkle with extra ground cinnamon for garnish. Serve warm or chill before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy for a dairy-free version with added flavor.
- Stir in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a spiced twist.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end of cooking.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, briefly blend the pudding before serving.
Storage
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the pudding if it has thickened too much.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of leftover rice?
Yes, freshly cooked rice works well, but let it cool slightly before making the pudding to avoid curdling the milk.
How can I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pan?
Stir the pudding continuously once it reaches a simmer and cook over low heat to prevent it from sticking or burning.
Print
Leftover Rice Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting and simple leftover rice pudding recipe transforms plain cooked rice into a creamy, sweet dessert. With warm cinnamon and vanilla notes, it can be served warm or chilled and optionally topped with raisins for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked leftover rice
- 2 cups milk
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for optional garnish)
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Raisins (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Mix ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the leftover cooked rice, milk, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Heat mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and gently heat the mixture until you see small bubbles forming around the edges, indicating it is beginning to warm through.
- Thicken pudding: Lower the heat to low and stir continuously while cooking for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the pudding to thicken and the flavors to meld together perfectly. Be careful to stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
- Finish and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Spoon the pudding into bowls and add raisins if desired. Optionally sprinkle extra cinnamon on top. Serve warm immediately or chill in the refrigerator to enjoy later as a cool dessert.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked rice – white or brown rice both work well.
- Stir continuously on low heat to prevent the pudding from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add raisins towards the end or sprinkle on top for texture and added sweetness.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste depending on sweetness preference.
- Can be served warm for a cozy treat or chilled for a refreshing dessert.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: rice pudding, leftover rice recipe, easy dessert, cinnamon dessert, creamy pudding, simple sweet pudding

