Rice pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, a creamy and dreamy treat that takes us back to simpler times. It’s a dish that warms both the heart and belly, and when prepared in the Instant Pot, it becomes even easier to whip up in a fraction of the time. Today, we are sharing a delightful recipe for creamy Instant Pot rice pudding that is simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Our creamy instant pot rice pudding showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm, chilled, or topped with your favorite fruits, it’s an incredibly versatile dish. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire!
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This creamy Instant Pot rice pudding is a must-try for so many reasons! First off, the Instant Pot essentially does all the hard work for you. You get to enjoy the luscious, rich flavor of rice pudding without standing over the stove, stirring for what feels like an eternity. The cooking process infuses the rice with the milky sweetness it craves, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm, cozy aroma that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
Furthermore, this recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, making it accessible for anyone to whip up. Perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, it promises creamy perfection every time. Trust me; once you taste this, you’ll be glad you did!
Ingredients
To create this heavenly dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (175 grams) medium-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups (500 ml) whole milk
- 1 ½ cups (375 ml) water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (14 ounce) can (397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
These simple ingredients come together to create a bowl of pure indulgence!
How To Make Creamy Instant Pot Rice Pudding
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
To start, rinse the medium-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial as it removes excess starch and prevents the rice pudding from becoming gummy.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
In your Instant Pot, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Gently stir the mixture together until well combined.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure that the steam release handle is set to the sealing position. Press the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ button, then set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
Step 4: Natural Release
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. This step helps the rice continue to cook in the residual heat, ensuring it becomes beautifully creamy.
Step 5: Stir in Sweetened Condensed Milk
Carefully switch the steam release handle to the venting position to release any remaining pressure. When it’s safe to open the lid, stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated. This will add a delightful sweetness and creaminess to your rice pudding.
Step 6: Adjust the Consistency (If Needed)
If you prefer a thicker pudding, you can turn on the sauté function for a few minutes, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the creamy rice pudding into bowls and serve warm, or let it cool in the refrigerator if you prefer it chilled. Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra special touch.
Expert Tips
- Always rinse the rice before cooking to avoid a sticky texture.
- For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a pinch of cardamom along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- If you want a thicker rice pudding, you can add an additional half cup of rice or cook it a bit longer on the sauté setting.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less condensed milk according to your taste preferences.
Variations and Customizations
There are endless ways to customize your creamy rice pudding. Consider trying these variations:
- Add dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots for a chewy texture.
- Incorporate fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, or mangoes for a burst of flavor.
- Use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a tropical twist on flavor.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for added crunch.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you can store the rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much while stored.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice for this recipe?
While you can use brown rice, it will require a longer cooking time and may alter the creaminess of the pudding. If you choose to make this substitution, add an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time.
Is it necessary to use sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is what gives the pudding its rich sweetness. However, you can substitute it with an equal amount of sugar or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.
Can I freeze the rice pudding?
Yes! Frozen rice pudding can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before consuming.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk with almond milk or oat milk and use dairy-free condensed milk for a delightful dairy-free version.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture and warm flavors, this creamy Instant Pot rice pudding is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the comforting taste of this delightful treat, and don’t be shy about experimenting with different toppings or variations. Happy cooking!

Creamy Instant Pot Rice Pudding
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup medium-grain white rice, uncooked Rinsed under cold water until clear
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1.5 cups water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (14 ounce) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the medium-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Step 2: In your Instant Pot, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Gently stir the mixture together until well combined.
- Step 3: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure that the steam release handle is set to the sealing position. Press the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ button, then set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
- Step 4: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes.
- Step 5: Carefully switch the steam release handle to the venting position to release any remaining pressure. When it’s safe to open the lid, stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.
- Step 6: If you prefer a thicker pudding, you can turn on the sauté function for a few minutes, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Step 7: Scoop the creamy rice pudding into bowls and serve warm, or let it cool in the refrigerator if you prefer it chilled.
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Mixing Bowl