The Best Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding: Easy, Tropical, and Irresistibly Rich

Discover the ultimate indulgence with this quick and easy coconut rice pudding recipe. Homemade with simple, wholesome ingredients, this delightful dessert comes together in just 30 minutes of active cooking. Prepare to be whisked away to a tropical paradise with every spoonful of this rich, creamy pudding, generously loaded with a luxurious blend of four distinct types of milk: whole milk, rich coconut milk, sweet condensed milk, and velvety heavy cream. It’s a dessert that promises comfort, warmth, and an exotic escape, all in one bowl.

Rice pudding is a timeless classic, a comforting dessert enjoyed across cultures for centuries. This coconut-infused version elevates the traditional recipe, infusing it with vibrant tropical flavors that are both familiar and exciting. It’s just as deliciously satisfying as a classic Easy Rice Pudding but with an exotic twist that makes it truly special. The luscious sweetness of coconut perfectly balances the deep richness provided by the combination of milks, creating a symphony of flavors that will make everyone’s taste buds tingle with delight. If you’re a fan of creamy, delightful puddings, you’ll also adore my Vegan Chocolate Pudding, Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding, and Chia Seed Pudding.

This recipe is designed for ease and speed, ensuring you can whip up a gourmet-quality dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re craving a cozy treat for a quiet evening at home or looking to impress guests with a unique dessert, this creamy coconut rice pudding is a perfect choice. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it suitable for any season or occasion.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Why This Coconut Rice Pudding is the Best

What makes this particular coconut rice pudding stand out from the rest? It’s all about the perfect blend of ingredients and a simple technique that yields incredible results:

• Unmatched Creaminess: The secret lies in using four types of milk – whole milk for a rich base, coconut milk for tropical depth, condensed milk for sweetness and added body, and heavy cream for an ultra-velvety finish. This quartet creates an unparalleled creamy texture that coats your palate.
• Tropical Flavor Burst: Fresh orange zest and shredded coconut aren’t just garnishes; they’re integral to the pudding’s tropical character, offering bright, aromatic notes that beautifully complement the coconut milk.
• Quick & Easy: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is incredibly straightforward. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have a batch of this delicious pudding ready in under an hour, not including chilling time.
• Versatile & Customizable: From adding fresh fruits to experimenting with spices, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. It’s easily adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
• Comfort Food Redefined: Rice pudding itself is pure comfort. Add coconut, and you elevate it to a new level of cozy, exotic indulgence, perfect for soothing the soul on any day.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Coconut Rice Pudding

Crafting this heavenly coconut rice pudding starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that rich, creamy, and tropically-flavored perfection. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• White Rice: Essential for the pudding’s base. You should use uncooked short to medium-grain white rice for the best results, as it releases more starch, contributing to the pudding’s creamy texture. Long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati can also be used if you prefer a less sticky, more defined grain texture in your pudding. Avoid instant or minute rice, as they don’t hold up well to the slow cooking process required for a truly luscious rice pudding.
• Whole Milk: The foundation of our creamy pudding. Whole milk, with its higher fat content, is crucial for achieving that incredibly rich and luxurious texture that makes this dessert so satisfying. Avoid skim or low-fat milk, as they will result in a thinner, less flavorful pudding.
• Coconut Milk: The star of the show, infusing our pudding with its signature tropical flavor. Be sure to use unsweetened full-fat coconut milk (from a can, not the carton beverage) for maximum flavor and creaminess. The fat in canned coconut milk is key to its richness. Shake the can well before opening to ensure the cream and liquid are fully combined.
• Condensed Milk: This ingredient serves a dual purpose: it adds a significant amount of sweetness and also contributes to the pudding’s thick, creamy consistency. Do not confuse it with evaporated milk, which is unsweetened and will not provide the same sweetness or thickness. Sweetened condensed milk is a must for the desired flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: For an extra layer of decadence and an unbelievably smooth finish. Don’t try to skimp on the fat here; heavy cream is what takes this pudding from delicious to absolutely divine, creating a truly velvety mouthfeel.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer that brings warmth and depth to almost any dessert. It perfectly complements the sweetness and tropical notes, rounding out the overall flavor profile. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• Orange Zest: A secret weapon for brightening the tropical flavors. The zest adds a subtle yet vibrant citrus note that cuts through the richness and highlights the coconut, without making the pudding taste overtly orange.
• Shredded Coconut: This adds textural interest and reinforces the coconut flavor. You will want to use the sweetened kind for an extra touch of sweetness within the pudding. Be sure to save some extra for garnish, perhaps even toasted, to add a lovely visual appeal and a nutty crunch.

Creative Variations for Your Coconut Rice Pudding

This coconut rice pudding recipe is wonderfully versatile, offering a fantastic base for endless creative variations. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Pudding with Leftover Rice: This is a fantastic time-saver! If you have about 1 cup of cooked white rice (ideally slightly overcooked), you can significantly reduce the cooking time. Simply add the cooked rice along with the milks and other ingredients, and cook until the mixture is thickened to your liking. The cooking time will be shorter, as the rice is already tender.
• Add Fresh Fruits: Enhance the tropical theme by mixing in fresh fruits at the end or using them as a vibrant garnish before serving. Mangoes, bananas, blueberries, raspberries, pineapples, and strawberries all pair beautifully with coconut. For best results, add softer fruits like berries after the pudding has cooled slightly, to maintain their texture.
• Try Other Sweeteners: While condensed milk provides unique texture and sweetness, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave syrup. Note that this may alter the overall flavor and consistency. For example, brown sugar will add a deeper, caramel-like note, while honey offers a floral sweetness. Adjust quantities to taste.
• Add Chocolate: Chocolate and coconut are a match made in heaven! Sprinkle some mini chocolate chips on top just before serving, or mix them into the warm pudding while cooking to allow them to melt and create a marbled effect. Dark chocolate balances the coconut flavor particularly well.
• Explore Other Garnishes: Beyond toasted coconut, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and spice. A dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or even a few fresh mint leaves can also elevate the presentation and taste.
• Make it Healthier: For a lighter version, try using brown rice for added fiber, or swap regular condensed milk for condensed coconut milk and incorporate other low-fat milks. Please note that these substitutions will significantly alter the consistency, flavor, and texture, potentially resulting in a less creamy and rich pudding.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: Introduce a delightful textural contrast by stirring in chopped almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pistachios. Toasting the nuts beforehand will intensify their flavor. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking or as a garnish.
• Mexican-Inspired Pudding (“Arroz con Leche”): To give it a Mexican flair, omit the orange zest and instead add rum-soaked raisins and a couple of egg yolks (tempered and whisked in) for a richer, more custard-like consistency. A pinch of cinnamon can also be added.
• Indian-Inspired Pudding (“Kheer”): For an Indian take, use aromatic basmati rice (a more slender grain) and infuse it with ground cardamom and cinnamon, a splash of rose water, and a garnish of chopped pistachios and slivered almonds. Omit vanilla extract and orange zest for this variation.
• Try Other Extracts: While vanilla is classic, you can experiment with other extracts to change the flavor profile. Caramel, almond, anise, butterscotch, or even a pure coconut extract can offer unique twists.
• Use Other Zests: Instead of orange, try lemon or lime zest for a different citrusy brightness. Lemon zest provides a sharper, more refreshing note, while lime offers a distinct tropical aroma.

How to Make Homemade Coconut Rice Pudding: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this creamy coconut rice pudding is simpler than you might think! Follow these steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Combine Rice and Milks: In a large, heavy-bottomed non-stick pot, combine the uncooked white rice, whole milk, and coconut milk. Stir everything together gently to ensure the rice is submerged. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
2. Simmer to Soften Rice: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for approximately 12-15 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the liquids and become very soft and tender. Make sure to stir the pudding halfway through the simmering process to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: After the rice is soft, remove the lid and stir in the condensed milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange zest. This is where the pudding really starts to develop its signature rich flavor and creamy texture.
4. Thicken to Perfection: Continue cooking the pudding uncovered for another 8-10 minutes over low to medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Keep an eye on the consistency; the pudding will gradually thicken to your desired richness as the liquid evaporates. Remember, it will thicken further as it cools.
5. Stir in Shredded Coconut: Once the pudding has reached your preferred thickness, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut. The residual heat will soften the coconut slightly, infusing its flavor throughout the pudding.
6. Chill and Garnish: For the best flavor and texture, allow the pudding to cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 1-2 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling process is crucial as it allows the pudding to fully set and achieve its creamy consistency. Before serving, garnish with extra toasted shredded coconut for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. If you prefer a slightly thinner, creamier consistency after chilling, you can mix in about ¼-½ cup of cold milk before serving.

Expert Tips and Techniques for the Best Rice Pudding

Achieving a consistently perfect coconut rice pudding involves a few simple techniques and considerations. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your dessert is always a success:

• How to Thicken Rice Pudding: The key to a thick rice pudding is patience. Continue cooking over low heat, allowing the excess liquid to evaporate and the mixture to reduce naturally. The starches from the rice will also release and contribute to the thickening. Remember, rice pudding will always thicken significantly more as it chills in the fridge, so don’t overcook it on the stovetop. If it still feels too thin after chilling, you can gently reheat it and simmer a bit longer, or simply enjoy it as a thinner, pourable pudding.
• How to Make Pudding Thinner: If your pudding becomes too thick, either while cooking or after chilling, simply mix in a little more milk (whole milk, coconut milk, or even regular milk) a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. You can add cold milk directly to chilled pudding.
• Stir Often: This is a crucial step! Especially during the simmering phase, stir the pudding frequently to prevent the rice and milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. Constant stirring also helps to evenly distribute the heat and encourages the starches to release, contributing to the pudding’s creamy texture.
• Use a Non-Stick Pan: A heavy-bottomed, non-stick pot is highly recommended. This significantly reduces the chances of the rice sticking and burning, making the cooking process much easier and cleanup a breeze.
• Serving Temperature: Rice pudding can be served either warm or cold, and it truly comes down to personal preference. Many find it most delicious when served chilled, as the flavors meld and the pudding sets to a perfect creamy consistency. However, a warm bowl of freshly made pudding can be incredibly comforting on a cold day. Experiment to find your favorite!
• Embrace Full-Fat Ingredients: For the richest, creamiest, and most decadent results, stick with full-fat dairy ingredients as specified (whole milk, heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk). The fat content is essential for achieving that luxurious texture and deep flavor.
• Chilling is Important: Do not skip the chilling step! Freshly cooked pudding will appear quite runny. It needs several hours (or ideally overnight) in the fridge to fully thicken and allow the flavors to deepen. Chilling transforms it into that perfectly scoopable, creamy dessert.
• Use Clear Extracts: For a pristine white or lightly colored pudding, opt for clear vanilla extract if available. Regular vanilla extract can sometimes impart a slight brownish tint. This is purely for aesthetics and doesn’t affect flavor.
• Don’t Rinse the Rice: Unlike cooking rice for a savory dish, you generally don’t want to rinse the rice for pudding. The starch on the outside of the rice grains is crucial for helping the pudding thicken and achieve its creamy consistency.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your pudding before removing it from the heat and after chilling. You can always add a touch more sweetener, a pinch more zest, or another splash of extract to fine-tune the flavors to your liking.

Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe FAQs

Storage Instructions for Coconut Rice Pudding

Proper storage ensures your delicious coconut rice pudding remains fresh and enjoyable for longer.

• Room Temperature: Once cooked, allow the pudding to cool at room temperature for no more than 2-3 hours before transferring it to the refrigerator. This prevents rapid temperature changes that can affect its texture.
• Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pudding will thicken even more in the fridge, so you might want to stir in a splash of cold milk before serving to restore its creamy consistency.
• Freeze: I generally don’t recommend freezing rice pudding. The consistency of the pudding can significantly deteriorate upon thawing, often becoming watery or grainy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the refrigerator.
• Make Ahead: This is an excellent make-ahead dessert! You can easily prepare it up to 3 days in advance and keep it stored in a sealed container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prepping.

More Irresistible Coconut Desserts to Try

If you’re a fan of coconut, you’ll love these other delightful recipes that celebrate its unique flavor and versatility:

• Easy Coconut Macaroons (With Condensed Milk)
• Chewy Coconut Cookies
• Coconut Sugar Cookies
• Chocolate Coconut Bars (Macaroon Bars)
• Easy Christmas Cranberry Cake (With Cake Mix)

Recipe Card: Easy Coconut Rice Pudding