Imagine sinking your spoon into a bowl of warm, creamy delight that smells like vanilla and cinnamon swirling through your kitchen—a dish that’s not just tasty but also brings back memories of childhood. That’s right! We’re diving into the world of rice pudding with cooked rice, a nostalgic treat that can turn any ordinary day into a cozy adventure.
This dish is perfect for those moments when you have leftover cooked rice lying around—yes, that same rice you promised yourself you’d use for a stir-fry but never did! Instead of letting it languish in the fridge like an abandoned pet rock, let’s turn it into something magical. This recipe will awaken your taste buds and fill your home with an aroma so inviting that even your neighbors might come knocking for a taste.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy rice pudding with cooked rice is incredibly easy to whip up—a true lifesaver for busy weeknights
- With its rich flavor profile and delightful texture, it’s hard not to indulge
- The warm golden hue and fragrant spices bring an inviting charm to any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for breakfast or dessert!
A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.
I once brought this dish to a potluck, and everyone begged for seconds—it was an instant hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cooked Rice: Use any variety you have on hand; just ensure it’s well-cooked for optimal creaminess.
- Milk: Whole milk offers richness, but you can substitute almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar: Adjust according to your sweetness preference; brown sugar adds extra depth.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon elevates the flavor; feel free to add nutmeg for more warmth.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances aroma; opt for pure extract if possible.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances sweetness and enhances flavors beautifully.
- Butter: Adding butter makes everything richer; use unsalted to control salt levels.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather Your Ingredients: First things first—assemble all your ingredients on the counter so you’re ready to roll! This makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Combine Ingredients in a Pot: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together your cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until combined.
Bring Mixture to a Gentle Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer gently while stirring frequently until it thickens slightly—this should take about 15 minutes. Enjoy that sweet aroma wafting through the air!
Add Butter and Adjust Sweetness: Once thickened, stir in butter until melted. Taste the pudding and adjust sugar or spices if necessary—make it just how you like!
Cool Slightly Before Serving: Remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps enhance flavors as they meld together beautifully.
Garnish and Serve Warm or Chilled: Top each serving with some additional cinnamon or fresh fruit if desired. Enjoy warm or chill in the fridge if you prefer it cold.
Now go ahead and indulge in this comforting bowl of joy—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- Rice pudding with cooked rice is a delightful way to repurpose leftover rice
- This dish is creamy, comforting, and perfect for any time of day
- Adding a touch of cinnamon or vanilla can elevate the taste and aroma, making each bite a sweet delight
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by heating your milk in a pot before adding the cooked rice. Stir gently while it simmers to avoid sticking, and add sugar gradually for sweetness.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping regular milk for almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also add raisins or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the creamiest texture, use full-fat milk or cream; it makes all the difference!
- Avoid overcooking the rice; you want it tender but not mushy
- Always stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom of the pot
Sometimes, I serve this dish during family gatherings, and it’s always met with smiles and requests for seconds. The warmth it brings is simply unforgettable!
FAQ
Can I use any type of cooked rice?
Yes, any cooked rice works well, but short-grain varieties yield creamier results.
How do I make my rice pudding thicker?
Add cornstarch mixed with milk to achieve a thicker consistency while cooking.
Is rice pudding served hot or cold?
Rice pudding can be enjoyed both ways—it’s delicious warm or chilled in the fridge!
Creamy Rice Pudding with Cooked Rice Recipe
Indulge in this creamy rice pudding made with cooked rice, transforming leftovers into a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients for easy access.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until mixed.
- Simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in butter until melted; adjust sweetness as desired.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm or chill in the fridge; garnish with cinnamon or fruit if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
