- ½ cup uncooked white rice (long-grain or Arborio for creaminess)
- 3 cups whole milk (or 2% for lighter version)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Optional:
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cinnamon stick (for slow cooking)
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (add after 2 hours)
π Instructions
Add ingredients to slow cooker
- In a 4–6 quart slow cooker, combine rice, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir gently to mix.
Cook low and slow
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours , stirring once halfway through.
- The pudding is ready when the rice is tender, creamy, and slightly thickened.
Add extras (optional)
- Stir in raisins, dried fruit, or a splash of cream if desired.
Serve warm or chilled
- Ladle into bowls and serve:
- Warm, with a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Cold, like a custard
- Topped with:
- A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Ladle into bowls and serve:
Tips for the Creamiest Rice Pudding
π₯ Use Arborio rice — it’s starchier and creates a creamier texture (like risotto)
π₯ Don’t cook on HIGH — it can curdle the milk or make the pudding grainy
π₯ Stir once — prevents sticking, but too much stirring can break down the rice
π₯ Let it rest 10 minutes after cooking — thickens perfectly
π₯ Reheat with a splash of milk — restores creaminess
Ways to Customize Your Rice Pudding
Love the base? Try these fun twists:
- π Apple Cinnamon – Add diced apples and extra cinnamon
- π« Chocolate Swirl – Stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate
- π₯₯ Coconut Dream – Use coconut milk and top with toasted coconut
- π Berry Bliss – Layer with fresh strawberries or compote
- π― Maple Pecan – Swap sugar for maple syrup and top with toasted pecans
- π Banana Bread Style – Mix in mashed banana and walnuts
What to Serve With Slow Cooker Rice Pudding
This dish is a standalone star , but here are some great pairings:
- A cup of coffee, chai, or hot tea
- A dollop of whipped cream or coconut yogurt
- A side of fresh fruit or granola
Perfect for:
- Dessert after dinner
- Breakfast or brunch
- Meal prep (stores beautifully!)
- Freezing for future cravings
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use brown rice?
Yes — but increase cook time to 4–5 hours on LOW (it takes longer to soften).
❓ Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk (full-fat for creaminess).
❓ Can I add eggs for a custard texture?
Yes — whisk in 1 egg during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, custard-like pudding.
❓ Can I freeze it?
Yes! Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months . Thaw and reheat gently.
Final Thoughts
This 4-ingredient Slow Cooker Rice Pudding is the perfect balance of simple, creamy, and soul-satisfying — a dessert that’s so easy, it feels like cheating , but tastes like a labor of love.
With its velvety texture, sweet vanilla warmth, and nostalgic charm , it’s no wonder this recipe is a family favorite and comfort food classic .
So next time you want a no-fuss treat that feeds the body and soul — just dump, cook, and enjoy .
Because sometimes, the best desserts are the ones that require almost nothing — and give you everything .