Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

Featured in: Weekend BBQ Favorites

This comforting dish transforms leftover rice into a creamy, gently sweetened dessert infused with warm cinnamon and a hint of vanilla. Simmered slowly with milk and sugar, it thickens to a luscious consistency, perfect served warm or chilled. Optional additions like butter, raisins, or nuts add depth and texture. Simple utensils and minimal prep make it an easy, satisfying treat for any occasion.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:07:00 GMT
A comforting bowl of creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Save
A comforting bowl of creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon. | grilto.com

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

I first made this rice pudding one evening when I had extra rice sitting in the fridge. Turning plain rice into a creamy treat surprised the whole family and has since become a favorite way to end cozy dinners.

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 gently:
Place over medium heat stir frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
Thicken pudding:
Lower the heat and cook uncovered stirring often for 15–20 minutes until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
Add flavorings:
Stir in vanilla extract salt and butter during the last 2 minutes of cooking if using.
Cool and serve:
Remove from heat let cool slightly; pudding will thicken as it cools. Serve warm or chilled sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
This warm, cinnamon-spiced Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice recipe is perfect for a cozy dessert. Save
This warm, cinnamon-spiced Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice recipe is perfect for a cozy dessert. | grilto.com

Sharing bowls of warm rice pudding with family always makes for a sweet moment. Everyone gets creative with their favorite toppings which brings a little fun to dessert time.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan wooden spoon measuring cups and serving bowls are all you need.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains dairy products. Use plant-based milk if you need a dairy-free version and always verify ingredient labels.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has about 210 calories 4 grams of fat 40 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of protein.

Smooth Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, served in a bowl, with a rich, inviting texture and scent. Save
Smooth Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, served in a bowl, with a rich, inviting texture and scent. | grilto.com

This rice pudding is delicious warm or chilled and comes together in just minutes. Enjoy customizing it with your favorite additions.

Recipe Help & Answers

What type of rice works best?

White or jasmine rice provides the ideal texture and mild flavor that complements the creamy base well.

Can I use plant-based milk alternatives?

Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat milk can be used, but check for added flavors that might alter the final taste.

How do I achieve a smooth consistency?

Simmer the mixture gently and stir frequently to prevent clumps and ensure even thickening.

What variations can enhance the flavor?

Adding raisins during cooking, topping with chopped nuts, honey, or fresh berries can add texture and sweetness.

Can this dessert be served cold?

Yes, it tastes delicious served warm or chilled, allowing the flavors to meld differently depending on temperature.

Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

A comforting dessert featuring leftover rice simmered with milk, sugar, and warm cinnamon flavors.

Prep Time
5 min
Time to Cook
20 min
Complete Time
25 min
From grilto Jake Turner


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style International

Serves 4 Portions

Diet Details Meatless, No Gluten

What You Need

Base

01 2 cups cooked leftover rice (white or jasmine preferred)
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

How-To

Step 01

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

Step 02

Heat mixture: Place saucepan over medium heat; stir frequently until it reaches a gentle simmer.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Add finishing touches: Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and butter during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Step 05

Cool and serve: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly; pudding will continue to thicken. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with cinnamon.

Essentials

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

Allergy Advisory

Review every component for allergens. Reach out to a health pro if you’re concerned.
  • Contains dairy milk; check plant-based alternatives for allergens.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Facts listed here are for your info, not medical advice. Always double-check if needed.
  • Energy: 210
  • Lipids: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 5 g