Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe
If you’ve ever wished for a cozy and utterly creamy dessert that’s comforting, wholesome, and entirely plant-based, this Vegan Rice Pudding is about to become your new best friend. Every spoonful is rich yet delicate thanks to plant-based milk and coconut cream, with gentle flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla swirling through each bite. Not only is this pudding free from dairy and eggs, but it comes together with humble pantry staples, making it a sweet treat you can whip up anytime a craving hits. Whether served warm or chilled, with a flurry of toasted coconut or a handful of fresh fruit, this Vegan Rice Pudding always hits that nostalgic, homemade dessert note.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Vegan Rice Pudding is how its handful of basic, easy-to-find ingredients come together to create something magical. Each component brings a special texture, flavor, or creamy richness, so don’t skip on these essentials if you want that truly luscious result!
- Arborio or short-grain rice: The starchy grains make the pudding ultra-creamy as they cook and slowly release their starch.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Offers a neutral, milky base; swap for your favorite plant milk if desired for a different nuance.
- Coconut cream: Lends body and a dreamy, decadent mouthfeel; choose full-fat for maximum richness.
- Organic cane sugar or maple syrup: Sweetens the pudding naturally; maple syrup adds a lovely warmth and extra depth.
- Vanilla extract: Brings an inviting aroma and rounds out all the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Delivers gentle spice and cozy undertones throughout.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a hint elevates the custardy character of this dessert.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Optional toppings: Raisins, toasted coconut flakes, or fresh fruit are wonderful for adding pops of color, texture, and flavor.
How to Make Vegan Rice Pudding
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, add your rice, almond milk, coconut cream, sugar or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Give it all a gentle stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed, setting the stage for a silky, flavor-packed Vegan Rice Pudding. This first step is where the magic truly begins, infusing the milk with spice as the grains soak everything up.
Step 2: Simmer to Creaminess
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring often to keep anything from sticking and to help the rice cook evenly. Once you see small bubbles, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and leave the pan uncovered. Keep stirring every few minutes. This slow simmer, over 30 to 40 minutes, is what transforms those simple ingredients into a thick, velvety Vegan Rice Pudding that’s the stuff of dessert dreams.
Step 3: Final Flavor Boost
As soon as the pudding is beautifully creamy and the rice is tender, remove the pan from the heat and stir in your vanilla extract. This last addition heightens the soothing fragrance, making your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. Let it cool slightly so it thickens up even more – it’s up to you whether you dive in while it’s still warm or chill it for later!
Step 4: Top & Serve
Spoon your Vegan Rice Pudding into bowls and get creative with toppings. Whether you’re team toasted coconut, juicy berries, or traditional raisins, personalizing each serving adds that special homemade touch and bursts of flavor and color.
How to Serve Vegan Rice Pudding
Garnishes
Vegan Rice Pudding is a delight as-is, but a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of plump raisins, or some toasted coconut flakes can elevate each bowl to cafe-worthy status. For vivid color, fresh berries or diced mango are gorgeous and refreshing. If you love a bit of crunch, try roasted nuts, cacao nibs, or even a tiny drizzle of extra maple syrup for a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
While Vegan Rice Pudding can certainly shine on its own, it’s also delicious as part of a brunch spread alongside fruit salad, almond biscotti, or lightly toasted bread. For an extra-special occasion, serve it with vegan shortbread cookies or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the pudding in parfait glasses with fruit compote, or serve chilled with a citrus zest twist for a refreshing dessert on a sunny day. You can even fill mason jars with Vegan Rice Pudding for adorable, portable treats at picnics or parties. Little glass ramekins dusted with nutmeg also make for an elegant dinner party presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Vegan Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pudding will thicken as it sits, developing even more flavor and creaminess. If you plan to enjoy it later, simply scoop and enjoy straight from the fridge or let it warm to room temperature.
Freezing
For longer storage, Vegan Rice Pudding freezes pretty well. Transfer cooled pudding to freezer-safe containers or bags, sealing tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge – some separation will occur, but it blends back together easily with a gentle stir.
Reheating
To reheat, place the desired amount in a saucepan with a splash of plant milk to loosen it up. Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches your preferred temperature. Microwaving in short bursts also works; just be sure to stir often for even warming. Top with your favorite garnishes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While arborio or short-grain rice create the creamiest results, you can use jasmine or regular white rice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may change slightly, and you may need to adjust the liquid. Long-grain varieties will yield a less creamy pudding, but still tasty!
Is Vegan Rice Pudding gluten-free?
Yes, this dessert is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose a certified gluten-free plant-based milk and double-check any add-ins. It’s a wonderful option for guests with dietary restrictions.
Can I make Vegan Rice Pudding less sweet?
Definitely. Feel free to reduce the amount of sugar or maple syrup to fit your preferences, or use a sugar substitute if you like. You can always add a drizzle of sweetener on top just before serving if it needs a little boost.
What can I use instead of coconut cream?
If coconut isn’t your thing, you can use extra plant-based milk for a lighter pudding, or try oat cream or cashew cream for a similar richness without the coconut flavor. The key is to maintain that luscious texture so don’t skip the creamy element!
Can I prep Vegan Rice Pudding ahead for entertaining?
Yes, Vegan Rice Pudding is an ideal make-ahead dessert. Simply prepare, cool completely, and refrigerate until serving time. Give it a stir and refresh with a little extra plant-based milk if needed, then add your toppings just before presenting to your guests.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll treat yourself to a comforting pot of Vegan Rice Pudding soon. Whether it’s for a lazy weekend, a cozy family dessert, or as a make-ahead treat for company, this classic-with-a-twist is sure to win hearts and satisfy every sweet tooth—no dairy required!
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Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in the creamy and comforting goodness of this Vegan Rice Pudding. Made with aromatic spices and plant-based ingredients, this dairy-free dessert is a delightful treat for all occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked arborio or short-grain rice
- 4 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- ½ cup coconut cream
- ½ cup organic cane sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- raisins
- toasted coconut flakes
- fresh fruit
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine rice, almond milk, coconut cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes.
- Stir in Vanilla: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool; pudding will thicken as it cools.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled, topped with raisins, coconut flakes, or fruit if desired.
Notes
- Arborio rice creates a creamier texture.
- For extra richness, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Adjust sweetness with sugar or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
