If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s warm, comforting, and surprisingly simple to whip up, Vegan Rice Pudding is about to become your new go-to favorite. This luscious pudding brings creamy richness, a hint of coconut, and the perfect amount of sweetness, all without any dairy or eggs. Using pantry staples and a handful of cozy spices, it delivers all the nostalgia of a classic rice pudding with a fresh, plant-based twist. Whether enjoyed warm from the pot or chilled straight from the fridge, Vegan Rice Pudding is a true crowd-pleaser that easily fits into any occasion.

Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Vegan Rice Pudding lies in how a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together for something truly magical. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to that dreamy creaminess, just-sweet-enough flavor, and lovely hint of spice that makes this pudding irresistible.

Arborio or short-grain white rice: This type Dessert.
Water: A quick pre-cook helps the rice start to soften and absorb the milky flavors later.
Unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk): The backbone of our creamy liquid, keeping things dairy-free and light.
Canned coconut milk: For luxurious richness and a touch of tropical aroma that’s impossible to resist.
Maple syrup or agave nectar: Natural sweeteners that add warmth and depth, with a gentler flavor than plain sugar.
Vanilla extract: The essential flavor enhancer that rounds out every bite with sweet, mellow notes.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses cozy warmth and a familiar spiced aroma to the pudding.
Salt: Just a pinch to make all the flavors pop, balancing out the sweetness.
Nutmeg (optional): For those who crave a little extra spice complexity, a dash of nutmeg is a cozy addition.
Raisins or chopped dates (optional): A classic touch, these provide bursts of sweetness and lovely, chewy texture.
Chopped nuts or fruit for topping (optional): Finish things off with a bit of crunch or fresh brightness, however you like.

How to Make Vegan Rice Pudding

Step 1: Simmer the Rice

Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan, then add the arborio or short-grain rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This step softens the rice just enough so it’s ready to take on all the creamy goodness you’ll add soon.

Step 2: Add the Milks and Spices

After that initial simmer, it’s time to transform your rice! Stir in the almond milk, creamy coconut milk, maple syrup (or agave), ground cinnamon, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re feeling fancy. Turn the heat to medium-low and let everything come to a gentle simmer, stirring often to keep the rice from sticking and to help the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook Until Creamy

Let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. Frequent stirring is key here—this coaxing helps the rice release its starches, ensuring your Vegan Rice Pudding ends up thick, rich, and oh-so-creamy. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is tender and the pudding has reached that perfect, spoon-coating consistency.

Step 4: Finish and Customize

When your pudding is looking luscious, take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a final layer of flavor. If you love a bit of chew, now’s the moment to add raisins or chopped dates. Let the pudding cool slightly—it will thicken a bit as it sits—then decide whether you want to serve it warm and cozy or pop it in the fridge to enjoy chilled later on.

How to Serve Vegan Rice Pudding

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, go wild with toppings! A sprinkle of chopped nuts gives you crunch, a scattering of sliced fresh fruit adds color and brightness, and an extra dash of cinnamon or a drizzle of plant milk will make each serving feel special. Anything goes, so play around with your favorites.

Side Dishes

Vegan Rice Pudding is satisfying on its own, but if you’re feeling extra, pair it with fresh berries, a tangy fruit compote, or even a crisp almond biscotti for contrast. These additions create a dessert plate that’s worthy of any dinner party or delightful weekend treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Spoon the pudding into glass jars for easy snacks, layer it in parfait glasses with fruit and granola, or mold it into mini portions using ramekins or silicone muffin cups for a bit of whimsy. However you serve it, Vegan Rice Pudding is ready to shine at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Vegan Rice Pudding keeps beautifully. Cool it completely, then transfer to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll happily hang out for up to four days, ready whenever you crave a sweet treat or need a quick dessert for guests.

Freezing

Craving pudding next week? Freezing is simple! Portion Vegan Rice Pudding into freezer-safe containers (leaving a little room for expansion), seal tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving cold.

Reheating

To restore that creamy consistency after chilling, just add a splash of almond or coconut milk and stir gently as you warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Low and slow is best—this keeps it velvety and prevents sticking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While arborio or short-grain rice makes the pudding extra creamy, you can use medium-grain or even jasmine rice in a pinch. Just note that the final texture may vary slightly, and you might need to adjust cook time or liquid.

How do I make my Vegan Rice Pudding even creamier?

For a decadent, dessert-worthy result, swap all the almond milk for full-fat canned coconut milk or a barista blend oat milk. You’ll get a beautifully rich, custardy texture that feels totally indulgent but remains 100 percent plant-based.

Can I control the sweetness?

Definitely! Start with less maple syrup or agave, taste as you go, and adjust to your personal preference. Brown sugar makes a cozy substitute if you want a deeper caramel note.

Is this pudding good both warm and cold?

That’s the magic of Vegan Rice Pudding—it’s delicious right off the stove, creamy and comforting, but also lovely served chilled on a warm day. Try both and see which you like best!

Are there any fun flavor variations to try?

Yes! Play with spices like cardamom or ginger, stir in citrus zest, or add a spoonful of almond butter for a nutty twist. Toppings like toasted coconut, cacao nibs, or dried cranberries can change it up too.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dessert that checks every box—sweet, creamy, heartwarming, and easy to share—give Vegan Rice Pudding a try. With pantry-friendly ingredients and endless ways to serve it, this pudding is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl, and enjoy every cozy, delicious bite!

Vegan Rice Pudding Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Indulge in a delicious and creamy Vegan Rice Pudding that’s dairy-free and bursting with flavor. This stovetop dessert is easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

¾ cup arborio or short-grain white rice
2 cups water
2½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk)
½ cup canned coconut milk (for creaminess)
⅓ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Additions:

pinch of nutmeg
raisins or chopped dates
chopped nuts or fruit for topping

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Instructions

Boil the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil, add rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add Ingredients: Stir in almond milk, coconut milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg if using. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring often.
Simmer: Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until thick and creamy, stirring frequently. Add vanilla extract and optional raisins or dates.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm or chill for a cold option. Top with nuts, fruit, or extra plant milk.