Get ready to discover pure comfort in a bowl with this Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe, a creamy and dreamy twist on a timeless classic! Imagine tender grains of rice swimming in a lush coconut-milk custard, swirled with cinnamon, and studded with sweet golden raisins and chewy coconut flakes. Whether you serve it warm just off the stove or chilled for a refreshing treat, this pudding is a hug for your senses – one that’s sure to win over both coconut lovers and die-hard rice pudding fans.

Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe shine is its simplicity: each ingredient works double-time to bring creaminess, sweetness, and irresistible richness. Here’s how they build layers of flavor and decadence in every spoonful.

Short-grain white rice: Delivers that essential soft, clingy texture that gives pudding its trademark comfort.
Whole milk: Adds mellow richness and helps the rice cook up silky and tender.
Coconut milk: Stars as the flavor backbone, giving the pudding full-bodied coconut aroma and lush mouthfeel.
Sweetened condensed milk: This brings candy-sweet, concentrated creaminess, making the pudding extra dreamy.
Heavy cream: A splash boosts the decadence and makes each bite irresistibly rich.
Cinnamon: Offers cozy warmth and a gentle spice note that keeps every bite interesting.
Golden raisins (optional): Adds chewy, juicy bursts of sweetness that contrast beautifully with creamy rice.
Sweetened shredded coconut (optional): Doubles down on coconut, adding texture and flavor.
Toasted shredded coconut (optional garnish): Sprinkling some on top brings crunch and a toasty aroma that sends this dessert over the top.

How to Make Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Start the Rice

In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine your short-grain white rice, whole milk, and coconut milk. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil – watch closely and give it a stir now and then to keep things from sticking. Once bubbling, drop the heat to low and cover the pot. This mellow simmer coaxes out the creamy starches and lets the rice soak in all that gorgeous coconut flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Rice to Tender Perfection

Let your rice mixture cook, covered, for 14 to 16 minutes. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon, scraping the bottom so nothing scorches. The goal here is soft, perfectly tender rice that’s absorbed most of the liquid – the foundation of a great Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe.

Step 3: Build Creaminess and Add Flavors

Once the rice is just right, stir in the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and, if you love them, golden raisins. These additions dissolve into the pudding, making the base even creamier and infusing every spoonful with heady cinnamon and bursts of sweetness. Let this luscious mixture cook over low heat for about 12 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens into pure comfort.

Step 4: Finish with Coconut and Cool

Remove your pot from the heat. Now stir in the sweetened shredded coconut, which will melt in for a touch of chew and even more coconut essence. Let the pudding cool slightly if you’re craving something cozy and warm, or take it all the way to room temperature before chilling in the fridge for a cool, satisfying treat.

How to Serve Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

If you want your Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe to stand out visually and flavor-wise, top each serving with a little toasted shredded coconut. The toasty bits add irresistible crunch and a nutty note that plays off the creamy base – a finishing touch that really wows.

Side Dishes

Serve this rich pudding after spicy mains like curry, or pair with fresh tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, or papaya on the side. Their tang cuts through the richness and turns dessert into an island-inspired treat. For a special brunch, consider tiny cups alongside dark espresso or chai tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Up the wow factor by layering the pudding in glass jars with alternating stripes of mango puree, or mound it in coconut shell bowls for a playful island vibe. Tiny shot glasses make it perfect for parties, while a family-style bowl scattered with a jewel-toned mix of raisins and coconut lets everyone dive in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The pudding tends to thicken as it chills, so give it a good stir before serving and, if needed, loosen with a splash of milk or coconut milk.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze portions for later! Scoop cooled pudding into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top. It’ll keep well for about two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir well to bring back the creamy texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready for a warm treat, gently reheat your pudding on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or coconut milk to revive creaminess. A quick microwave zap works too – just pause to stir once or twice for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Definitely! While short-grain white rice creates the creamiest pudding, medium-grain or even Arborio rice will work too. Just avoid long-grain varieties, as they won’t get quite as soft and starchy.

Is the Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe is naturally gluten-free – just double-check that your coconut flakes and sweetened condensed milk don’t have additives if you’re sensitive.

Can I make it vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the whole milk and cream for extra coconut milk or any plant-based milk, and use vegan sweetened condensed milk. The result will still be deliciously coconutty and just as irresistible.

How sweet is the finished pudding?

It’s pretty sweet and dessert-like, thanks to the sweetened condensed milk and optional coconut. If you prefer it less sweet, use unsweetened coconut and reduce the condensed milk, replacing with extra regular milk or coconut milk.

What’s the best way to toast coconut for the topping?

Spread shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir constantly until golden and fragrant. It only takes a couple of minutes, so don’t walk away!

Final Thoughts

There’s something downright magical about this Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe – every bite combines nostalgic comfort with tropical flair. Whether you’re cuddling up on a chilly night or treating yourself after dinner, I can’t recommend it enough. Dive in and make it your new favorite dessert; I promise, your friends and family will be begging for seconds!