Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding is a rich, velvety dessert that blends tropical coconut flavor with the comforting creaminess of classic rice pudding. Made with coconut milk, fragrant jasmine or basmati rice, and just the right touch of sweetness, this dish is pure indulgence in every spoonful.

Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a soothing treat that feels both exotic and familiar. Topped with toasted coconut, nuts, or fresh fruit, this pudding makes an elegant dessert, a cozy breakfast, or a delightful snack.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding because it’s comfort food at its finest — simple, satisfying, and soul-warming. The blend of creamy coconut milk and soft rice creates a luscious texture that melts in your mouth. It’s also naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for everyone.

What makes it special is its versatility — you can enjoy it warm for a cozy evening dessert or chilled for a refreshing tropical twist. The subtle aroma of vanilla and coconut feels luxurious, while every bite delivers creamy sweetness and nostalgia.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Uses pantry staples to create an irresistible dessert.
Naturally Dairy-Free: Perfect for those avoiding dairy without sacrificing richness.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings — from mango to almonds or cinnamon.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
Comfort with a Tropical Twist: Combines the coziness of rice pudding with the freshness of coconut.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: ~290 kcal per serving
Cuisine: Tropical / Asian-Inspired
Course: Dessert / Breakfast

Ingredients

For the Pudding

¾ cup jasmine or basmati rice (uncooked)
2 cups water
1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
1½ cups whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free version)
⅓ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Zest of 1 lime (optional for a tropical touch)

For Topping (Optional)

Toasted coconut flakes
Sliced almonds or pistachios
Fresh mango, banana, or pineapple slices
Honey or maple syrup drizzle

Simple Cooking Directions

Cook rice in water until tender.
Stir in coconut milk, regular milk, sugar, and salt.
Simmer until thick and creamy.
Stir in vanilla and cinnamon.
Serve warm or chilled with toppings.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add the rice and a pinch of salt.
Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until the rice is soft and most of the water is absorbed.

Step 2: Add Coconut Milk and Sweetener

Stir in coconut milk, whole milk, and sugar.
Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Flavor the Pudding

Once the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and lime zest (if using).
Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.

Step 4: Achieve Perfect Consistency

If the pudding becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or coconut milk.
If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer until it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pudding warm for cozy comfort or chill it for a refreshing dessert.
Top with toasted coconut flakes, nuts, or fresh fruit before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding in small dessert bowls or glasses. Top it with:

Toasted coconut and almonds for crunch.
Fresh mango or pineapple for tropical sweetness.
Cinnamon dust or honey drizzle for warmth.

It’s perfect as an after-dinner dessert, breakfast treat, or midday snack.

Additional Recipe Tips

Stir often: To prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Adjust sweetness: Coconut milk varies in sweetness, so taste as you go.
Use short-grain rice for extra creaminess.
For richer pudding: Replace part of the milk with extra coconut milk or cream.
Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent film formation on top.

Variations

Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding: Use plant-based milk and sweeten with maple syrup.
Tropical Style: Add diced mango or pineapple before serving.
Chocolate Coconut Pudding: Stir in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
Spiced Version: Add cardamom, nutmeg, or cloves for warmth.
Coconut-Lime Fusion: Add extra lime zest and juice for a bright, tangy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the texture.

Special Equipment Needed

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Zester (optional)
Serving bowls

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes! Use about 2½ cups cooked rice and reduce cooking time by half.

2. Can I make this sugar-free?
Absolutely. Use natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or coconut sugar.

3. What type of rice works best?
Short or medium-grain rice gives the creamiest texture, but jasmine or basmati adds lovely fragrance.

4. Can I serve it cold?
Yes! Chill it for at least 2 hours for a refreshing, custard-like dessert.

5. Why did my pudding turn too thick?
It thickens as it cools — add a splash of milk or coconut milk before serving to loosen it up.

Conclusion

Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding is a luscious, heartwarming dessert that brings together comfort and tropical flavor in one beautiful bowl. It’s rich, creamy, and subtly sweet — perfect for any occasion, from cozy nights to summer gatherings.

This pudding is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort. Each spoonful delivers smooth coconut richness balanced by delicate sweetness. Serve it warm or chilled, and you’ll find it’s the kind of dessert that never fails to make people smile.