If you’ve ever found yourself craving an old-fashioned dessert that tastes like a loving hug from the past, you need to try this Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert. With its creamy texture, aromatic vanilla and spices, and the irresistible sweetness of raisins, this classic pudding practically cooks itself while you go about your day. The best part? There’s almost no hands-on time, so you get all the nostalgia and comfort without babysitting a saucepan. Whether you’re serving it warm on a chilly evening or chilled for a sweet summer treat, this Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert is practically made for sharing with friends and family.

Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient has a purpose and combines effortlessly to create a dreamy dessert. By using a few kitchen staples and a handful of flavor boosters, you’ll get that classic rice pudding flavor and luscious, creamy consistency.

Arborio or long-grain white rice: For the creamiest texture, Arborio rice is unbeatable, but any long-grain white rice will do in a pinch.
Whole milk: This is the secret to a luxuriously rich and smooth pudding; feel free to swap in coconut or almond milk for a dairy-free spin.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to tie everything together.
Salt: Don’t skip this! A small pinch is crucial to enhancing all the flavors.
Vanilla extract: Provides that irresistible bakery-style aroma and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy spice note—highly recommended for warmth and depth.
Ground nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch takes the pudding from ordinary to truly memorable.
Unsalted butter: Stirred in at the end for glossy richness and a silky finish.
Raisins or golden raisins (optional): Plump and sweet, they’re a classic addition— but feel free to leave them out if you’re not a fan.

How to Make Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert

Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray—this simple step saves you from scrubbing and ensures every creamy spoonful releases with ease. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

Into the slow cooker, add your rice, whole milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give everything a good stir so every grain of rice gets coated in the sweet, spiced milk mixture. At this stage, your kitchen will already start to smell amazing!

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Pop the lid on and cook the mixture on LOW for 2 and a half to 3 hours. Make it a point to give it a quick stir once or twice while it bubbles away to distribute the rice and keep things from sticking—a good excuse to sneak a whiff of that homey aroma. You’re aiming for tender rice and a thick, creamy pudding.

Step 4: Stir in the Final Ingredients

When the rice is soft and the pudding has thickened up, stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and raisins if you’re going the classic route. Leave the lid off and let it cook for another 15 to 20 minutes—this step gives you an extra rich, pudding-like consistency and plumps up the raisins perfectly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once cooked, your Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert might look a little loose, but don’t worry! It continues to thicken as it cools. Serve it warm for cozy comfort, or chill it for an ultra-creamy cold treat. Either way, add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert

Garnishes

The easiest way to elevate your Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert is with a handful of simple toppings. Think a dusting of ground cinnamon, a dollop of softly whipped cream, or a few extra golden raisins. For a modern twist, try a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped pistachios for color and crunch.

Side Dishes

Since this pudding is rich and creamy, it compliments a bright fruit salad beautifully, or you could serve it alongside a platter of citrus wedges and fresh berries. If you’re in the mood for full-on comfort, a small oatmeal cookie or shortbread on the side makes a perfect partner for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can really make this Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert shine. Try spooning it into little jars for individual servings, layering it parfait-style with stewed fruit, or serving it in teacups at your next brunch. A drizzle of honey or a swirl of berry compote on top is guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert tasting fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pudding will set up a bit more as it chills, making it even creamier the next day.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze rice pudding, keep in mind the texture may change slightly and become a bit more grainy after thawing. For best results, freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge. Stir well before serving to restore some creaminess.

Reheating

If you like your Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert warm, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–40 seconds, stirring halfway through. A splash of milk stirred in will help bring back its silky texture. Warm on the stovetop over low heat if you prefer to reheat a larger batch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! Arborio rice yields the classic creamy texture, but any long-grain white rice will work. Just keep in mind, short-grain rice tends to make the pudding extra thick, while long-grain produces a lighter feel.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Swap out whole milk for coconut milk or almond milk, and use a plant-based butter substitute. The result is still rich, creamy, and entirely satisfying.

Can I add other mix-ins besides raisins?

Definitely! Diced dried apricots, chopped dates, or even toasted nuts make delicious additions. Customize your Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert to fit your cravings or the season.

Why is my rice pudding still runny?

Don’t worry if it looks loose right after cooking—rice pudding thickens a lot as it cools. If you want it thicker, just let it rest, or pop it in the fridge for a few hours. Stirring in a spoonful of cream or extra rice can help as well if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

You sure can! Just be sure not to fill your slow cooker more than two-thirds full to avoid spillovers, and add a bit of extra cook time since a larger batch takes longer to thicken.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something magical about digging into a bowl of Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert, whether it’s cozying up on a rainy day or treating yourself at the end of a busy week. If you’re looking for the ultimate foolproof comfort dessert, give this recipe a try—it might just become your new favorite way to slow down and savor the sweet moments.

Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in this comforting Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and spiced just right. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a make-ahead treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Pudding:

3/4 cup Arborio or long-grain white rice
4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 cup raisins or golden raisins (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of a slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook the Pudding: Add rice, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender.
Finish the Pudding: Stir in butter, vanilla extract, and raisins (if using). Cook uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes.
Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled, dusted with cinnamon.