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.

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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

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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.

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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

β†’ 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.

β†’ What milk alternatives are suitable?

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

β†’ How can I enhance the flavor?

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

β†’ Is it better served warm or chilled?

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

β†’ Can I add mix-ins or toppings?

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

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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.

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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

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