Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

Featured in: Sweet Slow Moments

This creamy dessert transforms leftover rice into a warm, comforting dish by simmering it with milk, sugar, and cinnamon. The gentle cooking thickens the mixture while blending sweet and spiced flavors. Optional vanilla and butter add richness, while a cinnamon garnish provides a fragrant finish. Perfect served warm or chilled, this simple approach brings new life to leftover grains with a smooth, sweet texture that satisfies cravings with ease.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 14:26:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a dusting of cinnamon and ready to serve. Save
Steaming bowl of Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, finished with a dusting of cinnamon and ready to serve. | meanwhilerecipe.com

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

I first tried making rice pudding when I had extra rice after dinner and wanted a dessert without much effort. It was surprisingly delicious and became a favorite treat to enjoy warm on chilly evenings.

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 Rice and Milk:
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.
Cook Until Thickened:
Lower the heat and cook uncovered stirring often for 15 to 20 minutes until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
Add Extras:
Stir in vanilla extract salt and butter (if using) during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cool Slightly:
Remove from heat. Let cool slightly. Pudding will thicken as it cools.
Serve:
Serve warm or chilled sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
A close-up shot of creamy, homemade Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, a comforting dessert delight. Save
A close-up shot of creamy, homemade Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, a comforting dessert delight. | meanwhilerecipe.com

This rice pudding became a requested treat after family dinners especially for my kids who love it with fresh berries on top.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains milk (dairy). Always double check labels if using plant-based milk or flavored ingredients.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

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

Warm, sweet Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, perfectly flavored and delicious, great alone or with berries. Save
Warm, sweet Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, perfectly flavored and delicious, great alone or with berries. | meanwhilerecipe.com

Enjoy this comforting dessert warm or chilled for a cozy treat any day. Leftovers taste delicious for breakfast too.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use any type of rice for this dessert?

Yes, white or jasmine rice is preferred for their texture, but any leftover cooked rice works well.

How do I achieve a creamier texture?

Substitute half the milk with half-and-half or evaporated milk and stir frequently during cooking.

Is it possible to add fruit to the dish?

Yes, raisins or dried fruit can be stirred in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.

How long should the mixture be cooked?

Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often until the pudding thickens to your preferred consistency.

Can this dish be served cold?

Absolutely, it can be enjoyed warm or chilled, both offering delightful textures and flavors.

Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

Comforting creamy dish using leftover rice, milk, sugar, and warm cinnamon for a sweet finish.

Time to Prepare
5 mins
Time to Cook
20 mins
Complete Time
25 mins
Created by Meanwhilerecipe Clara Bennett

Recipe Category Sweet Slow Moments

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type International

Makes 4 Number of Servings

Diet Considerations Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten

Ingredient List

Base

01 2 cups cooked leftover white or jasmine rice
02 2 cups whole milk
03 1/3 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

Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Heat mixture: Place saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until it gently simmers.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Incorporate finishing ingredients: During the last 2 minutes, stir in vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and butter if using.

Step 05

Cool slightly: Remove from heat and let pudding cool; it will thicken further as it cools.

Step 06

Serve: Serve warm or chilled, topped with additional ground cinnamon.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Notes

Examine all food items for allergens and consult your doctor for concerns.
  • Contains dairy; verify labels if using plant-based milk alternatives.

Nutrition Info (per portion)

These details are meant for reference, not as a substitute for medical guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 210
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 5 g