Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

Featured in: Sweet Treat Fix

This creamy dish transforms leftover cooked rice into a comforting treat by simmering it gently with milk, sugar, and warm cinnamon. The mixture thickens over heat, creating a smooth texture perfect for enjoying warm or chilled. Optional vanilla and butter enrich layers of flavor, while garnishing with cinnamon adds a fragrant touch. Variations include adding dried fruit or nuts for extra character. Simple tools and everyday ingredients make preparation easy and quick.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:47:00 GMT
A warm bowl of Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, dusted with cinnamon, ready to eat. Pin It
A warm bowl of Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, dusted with cinnamon, ready to eat. | fordish.com

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

I first made this rice pudding when I had extra cooked rice from dinner and wanted a quick satisfying dessert. It instantly became a favorite for finishing off leftovers in a sweet way.

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 (optional): 1 tsp
  • Salt: Pinch
  • Unsalted butter (optional): 1 tbsp
  • Ground cinnamon, for garnish: To taste

Instructions

Combine base ingredients:
In a medium saucepan combine the cooked rice milk sugar and cinnamon.
Heat and stir:
Place over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
Simmer and thicken:
Lower the heat and cook uncovered stirring often for 15–20 minutes until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
Add flavorings and finish:
Stir in vanilla extract salt and butter (if using) during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cool and serve:
Remove from heat. Let cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
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This rice pudding is now a weekend treat in our home especially when everyone wants something sweet after family dinner.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains milk (dairy). 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

Steaming, creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, perfectly flavored and delicious for dessert. Pin It
Steaming, creamy Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice, perfectly flavored and delicious for dessert. | fordish.com

Enjoy warm or cold and try topping with berries or nuts for a new flavor each time.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, white or jasmine rice works best for a creamy texture, but other cooked rice types can be used.

What milk alternatives are suitable?

Whole milk is preferred, but any milk of choice, including plant-based options, can be substituted.

How can I enhance the flavor?

Adding vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and butter near the end brings added richness and depth.

Is it better served warm or chilled?

Both options are delightful; serving warm emphasizes creaminess, while chilled offers a refreshing experience.

Can I add mix-ins or toppings?

Yes, raisins, dried fruit, chopped nuts, honey, or fresh berries make excellent additions or garnishes.

Creamy Leftover Rice Dessert

A creamy, comforting dish using leftover rice, warm cinnamon, and subtle sweetness for a satisfying finish.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Time to Cook
20 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Recipe by Fordish Mia Harper


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine International

Result 4 Portion Size

Dietary Details Vegetarian Option, Gluten-Free

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

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

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

Step 04

Add final flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and unsalted butter during the last two minutes of cooking.

Step 05

Cool and serve: Remove from heat and let the pudding cool slightly to thicken further, then serve warm or chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review each ingredient for allergens. Ask your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy (milk). Verify labels when using plant-based or flavored alternatives.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Values provided for reference. Consult your medical provider with questions.
  • Energy Value: 210
  • Lipids: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 5 g