Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding

Name: Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding. This creamy dessert has a beautiful balance of rich coconut flavor and sweet vanilla, making it irresistible. On a particularly warm day, I decided to prepare this pudding as a refreshing treat. The method I used involved simmering the rice slowly in coconut milk, which allows all those delicious flavors to meld perfectly. It became a family favorite, and I believe it will be for you too, especially topped with a sprinkle of toasted coconut!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:42:29.163Z

I first discovered the magic of Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding while experimenting with a recipe handed down from my grandmother. The combination of coconut milk and vanilla extract creates an exceptionally creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the rice. One tip that I found particularly useful is allowing the pudding to cool slightly before serving; this not only enhances the flavor but also thickens the pudding for a luxurious finish.

Over time, I've perfected the recipe by playing with the sweetness and texture. For a delightful twist, I like to stir in some toasted coconut flakes before serving, which adds a wonderful crunch. This simple yet exquisite dessert has become a staple in my kitchen, surprising everyone who tries it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Heavenly coconut aroma that fills your kitchen
Creamy texture that lingers with every bite
Perfectly balanced sweetness with a touch of vanilla

The Beauty of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice for this pudding is a game-changer. This type of rice is short-grained and rich in starch, which gives the pudding its luxurious and creamy texture. When simmered, the rice absorbs the coconut milk beautifully, creating a velvety consistency that coats your spoon. Make sure not to rinse the rice before cooking, as rinsing removes the starch that contributes to the creamy mouthfeel.

Arborio rice requires a gentle cooking approach, so keep the heat low after you reach a boil. This allows the rice to release its starch gradually, resulting in a pudding that’s not just thick, but also incredibly rich in flavor. If you find the pudding too thick while cooking, adding a splash more coconut milk or water can help you achieve your desired consistency.

Enhancing Coconut Flavor

To elevate the coconut flavor, consider using full-fat coconut milk rather than light versions. The creaminess of full-fat coconut milk enhances both the richness and flavor profile of your pudding. If you're looking to experiment, try adding a tablespoon of coconut extract in addition to the vanilla for an even more intense coconut experience.

To bring brightness to the dish, feel free to stir in some fresh lime or lemon zest right before serving. The citrus will cut through the richness and add a delightful contrast that makes each bite more refreshing. This way, your dessert transcends typical rice pudding and becomes a tropical escape.

Perfecting Your Pudding

Achieving the right texture for rice pudding is key. If you notice after 30 minutes that the rice still hasn’t reached tenderness, keep simmering and stirring frequently. Adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning can be crucial. It’s better to be patient during this step; a slow simmer allows the soothing flavors to develop more fully.

For storage, this pudding can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you find it thickens too much in the fridge, simply reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of coconut milk or water. This will help revive its creamy allure, ensuring it remains irresistible even after a few days.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)

Once you have everything, you're just moments away from a delightful dessert!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened.

Add Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool for a few minutes, as it will thicken even more.

Serve

Spoon the rice pudding into serving dishes and top with toasted coconut flakes. Enjoy warm or chilled!

Serve it warm for a comforting dessert or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat later.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding warm for a comforting dessert, or let it chill for a refreshing treat on hot days. Topping it with toasted coconut flakes adds not only a delightful crunch but also an extra layer of coconut flavor and visual appeal. You might also consider drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup over the top to amplify the sweetness, especially if you enjoy a sweeter profile.

For a fun twist, consider adding seasonal fruits on top, such as mango or pineapple. Their natural sweetness and acidity will enhance the overall flavor of the pudding, giving it a more vibrant and tropical character. This can also make for a stunning presentation at a dinner party.

Dietary Alternatives

If you're looking to make this pudding dairy-free, rest assured that it's already suitable! However, if you need to substitute the sugar, a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar works beautifully. Just remember to adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences, as these alternatives tend to be sweeter.

For a protein boost, you could incorporate a tablespoon or two of chia seeds during the last few minutes of cooking. Chia seeds not only add texture but will also thicken the pudding slightly without compromising its creamy goodness. They are a fantastic alternative if you're looking to enrich the nutritional value of this indulgent dessert.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down to suit your needs. For a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients, and keep the cooking method the same; just ensure you use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume. Monitor the cooking time, as you may need to allow a few extra minutes for the rice to become tender.

If you are making a smaller batch, you can halve the recipe with no issues, and it will still yield a delicious result. Just keep an eye on the cooking process, as shorter cooking times may be required. This flexibility ensures that you can always have a fresh batch ready, whether for a cozy night in or a festive celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular rice instead of Arborio rice?

While Arborio rice is preferred for its creaminess, you can use jasmine or basmati rice in a pinch, but the texture will differ slightly.

→ Can I make this pudding dairy-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally dairy-free by using coconut milk, which adds rich flavor without any dairy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat before serving.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste preference. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners.