There’s something deeply soothing about rice pudding—its creamy texture, warm spice, and nostalgic sweetness feel like a hug in a bowl. This slow cooker version captures all that old-fashioned charm with almost no effort: just stir, pour, and let your slow cooker work its magic while you relax.
Perfect for chilly nights, holiday leftovers, or a make-ahead brunch that feels special without the stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍚 Creamy, custard-like texture—no stirring required!
- ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, then walk away
- 💛 One pot = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $6—feeds 6–8 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
(6-quart slow cooker)
- ½ cup (100g) short-grain white rice (like Arborio or sushi rice)
- 4 cups (960ml) whole milk (or full-fat canned coconut milk for dairy-free)
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ cup (80g) raisins (golden or dark)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
💡 Pro Tips:
- Do NOT use instant or quick-cook rice—it turns to mush.
- Stir once halfway (optional)—helps prevent sticking, but not required.
- For extra richness: Swap 1 cup milk with heavy cream or evaporated milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Spiced, Foolproof)
1. Combine Ingredients
- In your slow cooker, whisk together milk, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and raisins.
- Stir in raw short-grain rice (no need to rinse).
- Cover and cook:
- LOW: 3–4 hours
- HIGH: 2–2.5 hours
- Pudding is done when rice is tender and mixture is thick and creamy.
2. Finish & Serve
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Let rest 10–15 minutes—it will thicken further as it cools.
- Serve warm (best texture!) with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
- ☕ Classic pairing: With hot coffee, chai, or spiced apple cider
- 🥄 Creamy contrast: Dollop of whipped cream, vanilla yogurt, or cold milk
- 🍌 Fresh brightness: Sliced bananas, berries, or a drizzle of honey
- 🥣 Brunch buffet: Keep on “Warm” setting alongside eggs, toast, and fruit
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Keeps up to 5 days—reheat gently with splash of milk.
- Freeze? Not ideal—dairy may separate. Best fresh or refrigerated!
- Prep ahead: Measure dry ingredients night before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes! Rice and all other ingredients are naturally GF.
A: Yes! Rice and all other ingredients are naturally GF.
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Not recommended—it requires more liquid and longer cook time; stick with short-grain white.
A: Not recommended—it requires more liquid and longer cook time; stick with short-grain white.
Q: Too thin?
A: Cook uncovered on HIGH for last 30 mins to reduce. Or mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold milk; stir in at the end.
A: Cook uncovered on HIGH for last 30 mins to reduce. Or mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold milk; stir in at the end.
Q: Dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use full-fat canned coconut milk + almond or oat milk (avoid low-fat—needs fat for creaminess).
A: Yes! Use full-fat canned coconut milk + almond or oat milk (avoid low-fat—needs fat for creaminess).
❤️ The Heart of the Pudding
This isn’t just dessert—it’s a quiet ritual of care. While it simmers, your home fills with the scent of cinnamon and comfort, turning ordinary evenings into something tender and memorable.
So measure that rice, stir in those raisins, and trust the slow cooker. Because the best desserts aren’t complicated—they’re creamy, spiced, and made with love.
“Good pudding doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs rice, cinnamon, and someone hungry.” 🍚✨
