If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day or a sweet, creamy treat that comforts the soul, this Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe is just what you need. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them in a slow cooker into a luscious, velvety pudding that’s perfectly spiced and rich, with a texture that delights every bite. Whether you’re new to rice pudding or a devoted fan, this recipe will become an easy favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the magic of this Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe. Each component plays an important role — from the butter that adds richness to the cinnamon that introduces warm, fragrant notes.
- Butter (1/4 cup): Melts to coat the rice for a creamy, smooth base and prevents sticking in your slow cooker.
- Milk (6 cups): Whole milk is best because it adds luscious creaminess; avoid skim for the perfect rich texture.
- Success Rice – 2 bags: Pre-boiled, this rice cooks up soft and tender without getting mushy.
- Sugar (1 cup): Balances the dish with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Pinch of Salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the pudding from tasting flat.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a subtle spicy aroma that complements the creamy pudding beautifully.
- Vanilla (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a comforting sweetness that elevates the whole dessert.
- Brown Sugar (1/3 cup): Offers a molasses note and helps create a lovely caramelized finish on top.
How to Make Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by placing the butter at the bottom of your slow cooker. This step is essential because as the butter melts, it will create a rich, buttery base that coats every grain of rice, ensuring your pudding has that luscious texture you’re dreaming of.
Step 2: Add and Coat the Rice
Once the butter has fully melted, add the uncooked rice right into the pot. Stir it well to coat every grain with the melted butter. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and prevents clumping, setting the stage for a perfectly creamy pudding.
Step 3: Combine the Flavorful Ingredients
Pour in the milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Give it a good stir to mix everything thoroughly. This mixture is where the magic of the Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe really starts to come together — rich, sweet, and fragrantly spiced.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Seal the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally during this period to keep everything well combined and ensure the pudding thickens evenly without sticking to the sides.
Step 5: Check for Thickness and Doneness
When the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened up beautifully, your dessert is ready. The texture should be creamy with soft rice, but not soupy. This moment is what makes the Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe so special — creamy, comforting, and utterly satisfying.
Step 6: Cool Slightly
Turn off the slow cooker and let the pudding cool for about 15 minutes. Cooling slightly allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set just enough for an easier, cleaner serve.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Dish your pudding into small bowls or ramekins, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for a beautiful finish, and get ready to indulge. This is the point where hearts are won over with every spoonful.
How to Serve Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg is a classic way to garnish, but you can also try freshly grated nutmeg, a handful of toasted chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce for an extra treat. These additions add texture and a visual pop that makes your pudding even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit such as berries or sliced peaches to balance its creaminess with a burst of freshness. Alternatively, a cup of strong coffee or spiced tea complements the warm flavors perfectly for an afternoon snack or dessert course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve your Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe in individual glass jars or vintage ramekins topped with edible flowers or a crisp cookie on the side. Layering the pudding with fruit compote or jam creates an elegant parfait-style dessert that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover rice pudding to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a convenient and delicious treat to enjoy anytime your sweet tooth calls.
Freezing
You can freeze rice pudding, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. Stir often to prevent the pudding from drying out or sticking as it warms. This way, your Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe tastes just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
For the best results, the recipe uses Success Rice because it easily cooks to the perfect texture without becoming mushy. However, short-grain or medium-grain rice can also work if carefully monitored, but adjustments in cooking time may be necessary.
Is it necessary to use whole milk?
Yes, whole milk adds the richness and creaminess that make this rice pudding so smooth. Skim or low-fat milk tends to create a thinner, less satisfying texture. If you want to use a milk alternative, choose one that is full-fat and unsweetened.
What if I don’t have a Crock-Pot?
You can technically make this recipe on the stovetop, but it will require constant stirring to prevent burning and sticking. The Crock Pot’s low and slow cooking method is what makes the pudding perfectly creamy without as much hands-on effort.
Can I add raisins or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! If you love raisins, nuts, or even shredded coconut, add them during the last hour of cooking so they soften and meld with the pudding without becoming overly chewy or losing their flavor.
How long will the pudding keep in the refrigerator?
The pudding will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating leftovers.
Final Thoughts
Making this Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe is like inviting a little bit of cozy comfort into your kitchen without any fuss. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dessert that feels homemade and special every single time. So, don’t hesitate — treat yourself and your loved ones to this warm, dreamy pudding that’s bound to become a cherished family favorite.
Print
Crock Pot Rice Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and comforting Crock Pot Rice Pudding recipe delivers a rich, perfectly cooked dessert with minimal effort. Made in a slow cooker, it uses whole milk and a blend of sugars and spices to create a warm, satisfying pudding that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 6 cups Milk (whole milk is best – skim milk is too watery, so use at least 2%)
- 2 bags Success Rice – Boil in bags
- 1 cup Sugar
- Pinch Salt
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
- 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Place the butter in the bottom of a 4 quart slow cooker or Crock-Pot, and let it melt completely.
- Coat Rice: When the butter has melted, add the uncooked rice and stir to coat all the grains evenly with the melted butter.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Stir all together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Cook Pudding: Cover the Crock-Pot with its lid and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: When the rice is fully cooked and the pudding has thickened to a creamy consistency, the dish is ready.
- Cool Slightly: Turn off the Crock-Pot and let the rice pudding cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Spoon the pudding into small dishes or ramekins, sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired, and enjoy this warm, comforting dessert.
Notes
- Using whole milk is crucial for a creamy texture; skim milk produces a watery pudding.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the Crock-Pot.
- If you prefer a sweeter pudding, adjust sugar amounts to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.
- Adding raisins or nuts is an optional variation to enhance texture and flavor.
