If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then this Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe is here to make that dream come true. Creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare, this classic treat lets the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. Using simple pantry staples, it delivers rich texture and cozy flavors that will have you reaching for seconds — whether served warm right out of the pot or chilled for a refreshing twist. Trust me, once you try this slow cooker rice pudding, it’s going to become your new go-to dessert for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with just a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in crafting that perfectly creamy texture and warmly spiced flavor that rice pudding lovers cherish.
- Arborio or short-grain white rice: Arborio rice gives an ultra-creamy finish, but short-grain white rice works beautifully too, offering a comforting bite.
- Whole milk: Adds richness and a smooth base that’s key to filling out this dessert.
- Heavy cream: Boosts the creaminess and makes every spoonful feel indulgent.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding just enough to balance spices and cream.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors, making the sweetness shine even brighter.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant warmth that elevates every bite.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings cozy spice notes that make this dessert irresistible.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle earthiness for depth and complexity.
- Raisins (optional): Little bursts of chewiness and natural sweetness, perfect if you like a classic touch.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the pudding for a luscious, silky finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker with butter or a non-stick spray to prevent the pudding from sticking. This simple step saves you a sticky cleanup later and helps create that perfectly smooth texture we all dream about.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Add the rice, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg directly into the slow cooker. Give it all a gentle stir to blend these flavors together. This is where the magic begins: as the rice slowly cooks, it releases its natural starch, thickening the mixture beautifully over time.
Step 3: Cook Slowly on Low
Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 2.5 to 3 hours. Don’t forget to stir once or twice during cooking. This step ensures that the rice cooks evenly and that the pudding thickens without forming a skin on top. The slow heat gently transforms the mixture into creamy, tender rice pudding that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
About 15 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the vanilla extract, unsalted butter, and optional raisins. This final step deepens the flavor and adds a velvety richness, while the raisins plump up for delightful bursts of sweetness.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once cooking has finished, stir everything thoroughly and let the pudding sit uncovered for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps it thicken even more, giving you that luscious consistency that’s just begging to be devoured.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your pudding with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dash of freshly grated nutmeg right before serving. You can also add toasted chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Side Dishes
While rice pudding often shines as a standalone dessert, pairing it with fresh seasonal fruit such as sliced pears or stewed berries creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. A cup of hot chai or coffee also complements its comforting spices perfectly for a cozy treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve your Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe in individual glass jars or elegant ramekins, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkling of toasted coconut flakes. You could even layer it with jam or compote for a stunning and colorful parfait-style dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover rice pudding keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next serving just as tasty.
Freezing
You can freeze rice pudding for up to one month. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat rice pudding gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and bring it back to the perfect consistency for enjoying all over again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While Arborio or short-grain rice works best for creaminess, you can experiment with medium-grain rice, but avoid long-grain varieties as they tend to stay firm and won’t yield the classic pudding texture.
Do I need to soak the rice before cooking?
There’s no need to soak the rice in this recipe. The slow cooker’s low and slow cooking method softens the rice perfectly without any pre-soaking required.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or your favorite plant-based milks, but expect a slightly different flavor and richness. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
Is it necessary to stir during cooking?
Stirring once or twice at intervals prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom and helps the pudding cook evenly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final texture.
Can I add other mix-ins besides raisins?
For sure! Chopped dried fruits, shredded coconut, toasted nuts, or even a handful of fresh berries added near the end of cooking can personalize this dessert to your liking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delicious, and this Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re cozying up on a quiet night or serving guests with a warm smile, this creamy, spiced pudding will impress and satisfy every time. Give it a try soon — your slow cooker and sweet tooth will thank you!
Print
Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert is a creamy, comforting treat made with Arborio rice, milk, cream, and warm spices. Perfect for a simple, hands-off dessert that can be enjoyed warm or chilled, it features a rich, velvety texture with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, enhanced by optional raisins for added sweetness and chewiness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio or short-grain white rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the rice, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Pudding: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir the mixture once or twice during cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The rice should become tender and the mixture thick and creamy.
- Finish Cooking: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the vanilla extract, unsalted butter, and raisins if using. Cover and continue cooking until done.
- Rest and Serve: Once fully cooked, stir the pudding well and let it sit for about 10 minutes to thicken further. Serve warm or chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- Arborio rice yields a creamier texture, but short-grain white rice is a suitable substitute.
- Adjust the sugar amount to your personal taste preference.
- When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure uniform texture.
- Raisins are optional but add a pleasant sweetness and chewiness.
