Best Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe – Easy & Creamy Arroz con Leche

Instant Pot Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting, and nostalgic dessert ready in just 25 minutes! Inspired by Abuelita’s traditional Arroz con Leche, this one-pot recipe simplifies the process while maintaining rich, authentic flavors.

Creamy, comforting, pressure cooker rice pudding, a nostalgic dessert that’s ready in just 25 minutes! This one-pot recipe uses pantry staples and brings the rich flavor of traditional Arroz con Leche into your kitchen without the need to stand over a hot stove for hours.

A Miami-Inspired Classic Made Easy

Back when I lived in Miami decades ago, I fell in love with Cuban and Spanish flavors, especially Arroz con Leche. This creamy rice pudding was something I only got to enjoy when Abuelita made it. After enough waiting, I finally asked her for the recipe.

My first attempt? Let’s just say I had buckets of rice and burned more than just the pan. Hours of stirring made me rethink my obsession. But now, thanks to the Instant Pot, I’ve perfected this treat in a fraction of the time—and it’s Abuelita-approved!

This is not only the BEST Instant Post Rice Pudding; it’s the ORIGINAL Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Rice Pudding

• Quick and Easy: 25 minutes from start to finish!
• One-Pot Recipe: Minimal cleanup.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and mix-ins.
• Family Favorite: Comforting and nostalgic, just like grandma made.

Instant Pot Rice Pudding Ingredients

• 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended, but almond or coconut milk works too)
• 1¼ cups water
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• ⅛ cup vanilla sugar (or granulated sugar, optional)
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (I like Nielsen-Massey Vanillas)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Additional cinnamon for garnish

Optional Toppings and Mix-Ins

• Raisins or dried cranberries
• Toasted nuts (almonds, pecans)
• Maple syrup or fruit jam
• Orange zest or coconut flakes

How to Make Instant Pot Rice Pudding

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Add rice, milk, water, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.

 

• Secure the lid and set the valve to SEALING. Press the Porridge button and cook for 20 minutes.

• Allow Natural Pressure Release for 10 minutes, then turn the valve to VENTING to release remaining pressure.
• Open the lid carefully. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
• Turn on the Sauté function and cook while stirring until the mixture thickens, about 1–3 minutes.

• Turn off the Instant Pot, serve warm or chilled, and garnish with cinnamon or your favorite toppings.

Expert Tips for the Creamiest Instant Pot Rice Pudding

• Use Whole Milk for Creaminess
  Whole milk gives the pudding its rich, velvety texture. Skip the heavy cream—it might curdle under pressure.

• Customize with Milk Alternatives
  Want to switch things up? Try coconut, almond, or oat milk for a fun twist on the classic flavor.

• Infuse with Flavor
  For an unexpected upgrade, steep Earl Grey or chai tea in the milk before cooking. It adds depth and a cozy vibe.

• Add Raisins (No Soaking Required)
  Just toss them into the Instant Pot with the other ingredients—they’ll plump up perfectly while cooking.

• Sweetness Level
  Sweetened condensed milk adds just the right touch for most, but you can always stir in extra sugar to taste.

• Spice It Right
  Use high-quality cinnamon and nutmeg. A little goes a long way, and fresh spices make all the difference.

• Reheat Like a Pro
  The pudding thickens as it cools. When reheating, stir in a splash of milk or cream to bring back that silky texture.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of milk to loosen the texture.

Make a complete Spanish Meal with Abuela Approved Black Beans and Arroz con Pollo for a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own or served with:

• Fresh berries
• A drizzle of honey or caramel
• A sprinkle of pumpkin spice for fall vibes

Why not give your Instant Pot a deep clean when you’re finished?