If you’re craving a comforting dessert that’s creamy, dreamy, and totally plant-based, this Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. It transforms simple pantry staples into a luscious treat that’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you want a cozy bowl on a chilly evening or a refreshing chilled snack, this pudding strikes the perfect balance between classic indulgence and wholesome goodness without any dairy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for that nostalgic, velvety rice pudding pleasure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe are wonderfully simple, but each one plays a vital role in achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. From the short-grain rice that gives just the right chewiness, to the almond milk which makes it beautifully smooth, every component is thoughtfully chosen.
- Short-grain white rice (1 cup): Use Arborio or any short-grain rice for that creamy, tender consistency that regular long-grain rice can’t match.
- Unsweetened almond milk (4 cups): This plant-based milk provides a mild, nutty flavor and a silky texture, but you can substitute any plant milk you like.
- Maple syrup (1/4 cup): A natural sweetener that adds depth and warmth; feel free to adjust according to your sweetness preference.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Offers an inviting, sweet-spicy note that pairs beautifully with creamy rice.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch adds complexity and warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings out the sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic finish.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- Optional toppings: Fresh fruit, chopped nuts, raisins, or coconut flakes to add texture and extra flavor layers.
How to Make Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by placing the rice, unsweetened almond milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt into a medium saucepan. Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the spices and salt. This ensures every spoonful will have that lovely blend of flavors right from the start.
Step 2: Cook the Rice Slowly
Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer quietly for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally so the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom. During this time, the rice will soak up the almond milk and soften, creating that creamy pudding consistency you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor
When the rice is tender and the pudding is thick and creamy, remove it from heat. Stir in the maple syrup and pure vanilla extract. This is where the pudding truly shines, with the sweetness and aromatic flavor making it downright irresistible. Taste and adjust the sweetness if you prefer it a little sweeter.
Step 4: Serve Warm or Cold
You can enjoy your Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe right away while it’s warm and comforting, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing change. Both ways are equally delightful and perfect depending on your mood or the season.
How to Serve Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect finishing touches make all the difference. Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch, or scatter plump raisins or cinnamon-spiced coconut flakes on top. Fresh fruit such as sliced bananas, berries, or mango chunks add brightness and contrast to the creamy base.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Vegan Rice Pudding with simple sides makes for a lovely snack or even a light dessert spread. Think toasted vegan cookies or a cup of spiced chai tea. These companions complement the pudding’s sweet creaminess without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pudding in cute Mason jars for an on-the-go treat or layer it in a parfait with fruit and granola for a textural delight. You could also pipe it into bite-sized tart shells and chill for an elegant vegan dessert at your next gathering. The possibilities to dress it up and impress are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your vegan rice pudding to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep happily for about 3 to 4 days, and in fact, the flavors often deepen and meld even better after resting overnight.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pudding in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that freezing may slightly change the texture, so thaw gently in the fridge and stir well before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy your Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe warm again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly. You can add a splash of almond milk if the pudding has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe?
Short-grain rice like Arborio is best for creaminess, but if you only have medium-grain rice, that will work too. Long-grain rice tends to be less creamy, so it might not give you that classic pudding texture.
What plant-based milk works best for this pudding?
Almond milk is a great choice because of its mild flavor, but oat, soy, or cashew milk are excellent alternatives. Just choose an unsweetened variety to control the sweetness yourself.
How can I make this pudding sweeter or less sweet?
Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste. You can start with 1/4 cup as suggested, then add a bit more if you prefer extra sweetness after cooking.
Is it necessary to stir the pudding while it cooks?
Yes, occasional stirring prevents the rice from sticking to the pan and helps distribute heat evenly for a smooth, creamy texture.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cardamom, star anise, or even a splash of orange zest to put your own spin on this heartfelt Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about a dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh, and this Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe nails it perfectly. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough to impress guests. The warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg combined with creamy rice cooked in almond milk creates a bowl full of comfort and joy. I truly hope you fall in love with this recipe as much as I have. Happy cooking and even happier tasting!
Print
Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This creamy Vegan Rice Pudding is a delicious, dairy-free dessert made with short-grain rice and almond milk, sweetened naturally with maple syrup and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfectly comforting whether served warm or chilled, it’s topped with optional fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes for a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup short-grain white rice (e.g., Arborio)
- 4 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Fresh fruit
- Chopped nuts
- Raisins
- Coconut flakes
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the rice, unsweetened almond milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Cook the Rice: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote creaminess, until the rice is tender.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavoring: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the maple syrup and pure vanilla extract. Taste the pudding and adjust the sweetness if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled according to preference. Add optional toppings such as fresh fruit, chopped nuts, raisins, or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any other plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk for varied flavors.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup depending on your taste preference.
- For a richer pudding, consider adding a tablespoon of coconut cream during the last step.
- Stir the pudding occasionally during cooking to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste delicious when reheated or eaten cold.
