Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe

Cozy Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe: A Dreamy Sweet Treat

Coconut rice pudding redefines ordinary ingredients into a magical dessert that whispers comfort and warmth.

Sweet grains nestled in creamy coconut embrace create a symphony of textures that dance across your palate.

Ancient culinary traditions inspire this delightful treat, blending tropical richness with classic comfort food elements.

Silky smooth and subtly sweet, this pudding offers a gentle escape from everyday mundane desserts.

Elegant yet approachable, the recipe balances complexity with simplicity, making it perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks.

Fragrant spices and luxurious coconut milk elevate this humble dish into something extraordinary.

Each spoonful promises a moment of pure culinary bliss.

Coconut Rice Pudding Pairing Ideas

  • Sprinkle Tropical Fruits: Top the coconut rice pudding with fresh mango chunks, diced pineapple, or passion fruit for a vibrant, zesty burst of flavor that complements the creamy, sweet base.
  • Pair with Aromatic Tea: Serve alongside a light, fragrant jasmine or green tea to balance the richness of the pudding and enhance its delicate coconut notes.
  • Match with Sweet Dessert Wine: A small glass of Moscato d'Asti or late-harvest Riesling creates a delightful harmony, its subtle sweetness and crisp acidity cutting through the pudding's creamy texture.
  • Add Crunchy Contrast: Garnish with toasted macadamia nuts or sliced almonds to introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty depth that elevates the dessert's tropical profile.

The Comfort of Coconut Rice Pudding

  • Create Creamy Comfort: This coconut rice pudding delivers ultimate creaminess with a perfect blend of whole milk, coconut milk, and heavy cream, creating a luxurious dessert that feels like a warm hug.
  • Unlock Tropical Simplicity: The recipe transforms basic ingredients into an exotic treat, combining traditional rice pudding with a Caribbean-inspired twist through coconut milk and shredded coconut, making complex flavors accessible.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare this delightful dessert in just 30 minutes, with minimal effort and simple stirring techniques that guarantee a foolproof outcome for home cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced chefs.

Ingredient Rundown for Coconut Rice Pudding

Base Ingredients:
  • Rice: Short-grain white rice works best for creamy, soft texture.
  • Whole Milk: Provides rich, smooth base for the pudding.
  • Coconut Milk: Adds authentic tropical coconut flavor and creamy consistency.
Sweetening and Enriching Ingredients:
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Introduces deep sweetness and helps thicken the pudding.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates extra luxurious and velvety texture.
  • Raisins: Optional sweet, chewy addition for extra texture and flavor.
Finishing and Flavoring Ingredients:
  • Cinnamon: Warm spice that complements coconut and adds depth.
  • Shredded Coconut: Fresh coconut adds texture and enhances the pudding's tropical profile.
  • Toasted Shredded Coconut: Optional garnish for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Easy Directions for Creamy Coconut Pudding

Step 1: Combine Milk And Rice

In a large pot, mix rice, whole milk, and coconut milk over medium-high heat. Watch the liquid come together and start to bubble with excitement.

Step 2: Bring To Boil

Allow the mixture to reach a rolling boil, stirring gently to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Simmer And Cook

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice cook for 14 to 16 minutes. Peek occasionally and give a gentle stir to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Create Creamy Texture

Add sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and raisins (if you like). Continue cooking over low heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture becomes wonderfully creamy.

Step 5: Add Coconut Finish

Remove the pot from heat and fold in shredded coconut. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

You can serve this pudding warm right away or let it cool completely for a chilled version. Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Tip: This dessert tastes even better when shared with friends and family!

Tricks to Get That Perfect Coconut Texture

  • Choose Full-Fat Milk: Use whole milk and coconut milk for ultra-creamy, rich texture that enhances the pudding's luxurious consistency.
  • Stir Consistently: Prevent rice from sticking by gently stirring every few minutes during cooking, ensuring even heat distribution.
  • Control Heat Carefully: Maintain low, steady heat to allow rice to absorb liquid slowly without burning or becoming mushy.
  • Customize Sweetness: Adjust sweetened condensed milk quantity to suit personal taste preferences, creating a perfectly balanced dessert.
  • Enhance Texture: Toast shredded coconut before garnishing to develop deeper, nuttier flavor and add delightful crunch to the creamy pudding.

Storage Tips for Rice Pudding Leftovers

Storing and Reheating Leftovers:
  • Refrigerate: Transfer cooled pudding to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation.
  • Reheat on Stovetop: Gently warm pudding in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy consistency and prevent sticking.
  • Microwave Option: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming and maintain smooth texture.

Coconut Pudding Variants You’ll Love

  • Tropical Fruit Fusion: Dice fresh mango, pineapple, and passion fruit, folding them into the pudding just before serving for a vibrant island-inspired treat.
  • Chocolate Coconut Dream: Melt dark chocolate chips into the mixture during the final cooking stage, creating a rich and decadent dessert with deep cocoa undertones.
  • Spiced Nutty Variation: Sprinkle toasted almonds and a pinch of cardamom while cooking, adding warm, fragrant notes and crunchy texture to the creamy pudding.
  • Coffee Coconut Indulgence: Stir in a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee at the end, transforming the pudding into a sophisticated, caffeinated dessert with subtle mocha flavors.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe

Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Silky coconut rice pudding whispers tropical comfort with each spoonful. Creamy grains nestled in sweet coconut milk create a blissful dessert that transports you to island paradise.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup short-grain white rice
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 1 (13.25 ounces / 375 grams) can coconut milk
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

Dairy and Cream:

  • ⅓ cup heavy cream

Spices and Optional Toppings:

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅓ cup golden raisins
  • ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • Toasted shredded coconut (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Combine rice, whole milk, and coconut milk in a large pot, heating over medium-high flame until the liquid reaches a vigorous boil.
  2. Immediately lower the temperature to a gentle simmer, covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and moisture.
  3. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, until the grains become tender and fully cooked.
  4. Introduce sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and optional raisins into the mixture, continuing to cook on low heat.
  5. Gently stir the ingredients, watching the consistency transform into a rich, creamy texture with a luxurious sheen.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat source and fold in shredded coconut, distributing it evenly throughout the pudding.
  7. Let the pudding rest for a few minutes to slightly cool and allow flavors to meld together.
  8. Serve immediately while warm for a comforting dessert, or refrigerate for a refreshing chilled version.
  9. Optional: Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top for an added layer of flavor and textural contrast before serving.

Notes

  • Requires patience and careful attention during cooking to prevent burning or sticking.
  • Best enjoyed warm or chilled, making it a versatile dessert for any season.
  • Sweetness can be adjusted by controlling the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
  • Toasting coconut beforehand enhances the nutty flavor and adds delightful crunch.
  • Choose high-quality whole milk and coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture.
  • Optional raisins provide extra sweetness and a delightful chewy element to the pudding.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 40 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 77 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star