Discover the luscious and delightful world of our Instant Pot Rice Pudding, where every spoonful takes you on a journey of velvety bliss. As you indulge in the perfectly cooked grains of rice, you’ll be met with an explosion of rich flavors and just the right touch of sweetness, promising pure comfort and satisfaction.
Crafted to perfection, this recipe brings the magic of homemade goodness straight to your Instant Pot. Effortlessly created, it’s the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness combined. Whether you prefer to savor it warm or chilled, this heavenly dessert has the power to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart.
Our Instant Pot Rice Pudding stands as the ultimate blend of convenience and culinary brilliance. In just 30 minutes, you can experience the aromatic and creamy delight of Arroz con Leche, a classic that never disappoints. The best part? The recipe is so easy that you probably already have all the ingredients waiting in your pantry.
Infuse your rice pudding with your favorite spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or any other delightful twist that suits your taste buds. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a personalized version of this beloved classic.
No need to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen; our Instant Pot Rice Pudding takes care of everything, making it the best option for your instant gratification. It’s not just any recipe; it’s a cherished favorite, cherished by both novice and seasoned Instant Pot users alike.
So why wait any longer? Elevate your dessert game and discover a new level of culinary bliss with our Instant Pot Rice Pudding. Treat yourself to the creamy, aromatic, and soul-soothing goodness that has made it a timeless and cherished treat. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a quick dessert fix, or a delightful surprise for your loved ones, this recipe is destined to become one of your all-time favorite Instant Pot creations.
Try it today, and let your taste buds revel in the joys of this comforting delicacy. Unleash the magic of our Instant Pot Rice Pudding and embark on a culinary adventure that is bound to leave you craving more.
This is not only the BEST Instant Post Rice Pudding; it’s the ORIGINAL Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe.
The Best Instant Pot Rice Pudding
Indulge in the unparalleled delight of our Best Instant Pot Rice Pudding – a blissful marriage of simplicity and taste that will leave you craving for more. Making this creamy and luscious dessert has never been easier, as our recipe guarantees perfect results in just 30 minutes. Prepare to be rewarded with a velvety smooth texture, infused with delightful sweetness and a fragrance that will tantalize your senses.
This culinary gem has a special place in my heart, harking back to my time in Miami decades ago when I first fell in love with its rich and diverse food culture. Among my favorites was Arroz Con Leche, also known as Rice Pudding, a dessert that held a cherished spot in my culinary repertoire.
Once upon a time, I yearned to recreate the classic rice pudding I enjoyed as a child. I turned to my mother-in-law, who generously shared her old-fashioned stovetop recipe. While the result was undeniably delicious, the process demanded considerable time and endless standing by the stove, which wasn’t always practical.
But then, the Instant Pot came into my life, and everything changed. With this magical kitchen device, my favorite dessert was now a breeze to prepare. It turned out creamy, rich, and oh-so-delicious, evoking memories of nostalgia and comfort. Indeed, it’s like coming home to a warm embrace from your past.
Rice pudding holds a unique place among comfort foods; its creamy texture, perfectly balanced sweetness, and familiar flavors make it a timeless classic. Every spoonful brings forth an explosion of taste that wraps around your heart, leaving you with a sense of contentment and gratitude for life’s simple pleasures.
The very essence of our Best Instant Pot Rice Pudding goes beyond its ingredients; it carries a soul-warming quality that reaches deep into your being. Each bite serves as a reminder of the little joys in life and the cherished memories we hold dear.
So, if you’re seeking the ultimate comfort dessert that evokes eye-rolling bliss and heartfelt sighs of contentment, look no further. Our Instant Pot Rice Pudding is the embodiment of culinary magic, inviting you to rediscover the art of savoring every moment and every flavor. Embrace this journey of taste and soul-warming indulgence (thoughtful catalog); your palate will thank you, and your heart will be filled with gratitude as you count your blessings (Forbes).
Why make Rice Pudding in the Instant Pot?
Rediscovering Delight: Instant Pot Rice Pudding
As a child, I found myself captivated by the enticing aroma of Abuelita’s homemade rice pudding. It was a treat I cherished, but it seemed that she held the secret to its perfect creation. Determined to partake in this delightful dessert more often, I mustered the courage to ask her for the cherished recipe. Armed with her culinary wisdom, I embarked on my first attempt, but the outcome left me with buckets full of overcooked rice and a reconsideration of my love affair with rice pudding.
Embracing Effortless Mastery: Instant Pot Arroz con Leche
Fast forward to the present, and my love for Arroz con Leche has been rekindled, all thanks to the marvels of the Instant Pot. In just about 35 minutes from start to finish, I now produce a creamy and delicious masterpiece that rivals Abuelita’s finest.
Here are a few compelling reasons why making rice pudding in the Instant Pot has become my go-to choice:
- Time-saving convenience:
The Instant Pot’s time-saving convenience is second to none. Compared to the endless hours I spent standing in front of a hot stove in my earlier attempts, the Instant Pot pressure cooks the rice pudding to perfection in a fraction of the time. Gone are the long waits; now, I can indulge in this delightful dessert in a jiffy.
- Foolproof results:
With its precise temperature control and automated settings, the Instant Pot guarantees foolproof results. There’s no more guesswork involved, as it ensures consistent outcomes with every batch. The fear of overcooking or undercooking the rice is a thing of the past.
- Effortless hands-off cooking:
The Instant Pot’s effortless hands-off cooking is a game-changer. Once I set the cooking time, it takes charge, leaving me with the freedom to focus on other tasks. Gone are the days of constantly monitoring the heat or stirring the pudding – now, I can let the Instant Pot do all the work.
- Consistency and texture:
The consistency and texture achieved by the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking method are unparalleled. The rice absorbs the liquid evenly, resulting in a luxuriously creamy and velvety texture, with every grain cooked to perfection.
- Versatile flavor options:
Experimentation is part of the fun, and the Instant Pot encourages just that. With its versatility, I can play with various flavor combinations by adding spices, extracts, or even trying different types of milk. The possibilities are endless, and I can easily customize my rice pudding to suit my taste preferences, creating exciting new variations.
- Easy cleanup:
Aside from the delectable results, the Instant Pot also simplifies cleanup. With only one pot to wash, the kitchen remains relatively tidy, and I can enjoy my rice pudding without the added stress of a messy aftermath.
Experience the magic of making rice pudding in the Instant Pot – a delightful journey of convenience, reliability, and culinary satisfaction. Elevate your dessert game with minimal effort, and savor the comforting joy of this timeless classic, made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. Rediscover the delight of Arroz con Leche and immerse yourself in the luscious flavors and creamy textures that the Instant Pot delivers.
What Goes Good with Rice Pudding?
Enhancing the Bliss: Personalizing Your Instant Pot Rice Pudding
When it comes to rice pudding, we can’t resist generously sprinkling it with cinnamon – a classic combination that always warms our hearts. But let’s not stop there; let’s dive into the world of customization and make this dessert truly our own.
Personalizing your Instant Pot rice pudding opens up a realm of possibilities, allowing you to experiment with flavors that excite your taste buds. Here are some creative ideas to spark your culinary imagination:
- Add your favorite spices: Elevate the flavor profile by incorporating spices like aromatic cinnamon, earthy nutmeg, exotic cardamom, or a hint of warming cloves. These spices infuse the rice pudding with depth and warmth, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
- Experiment with extracts: Unleash a burst of tantalizing aroma and flavor by adding a splash of vanilla, almond, or coconut extract. Each extract imparts a unique personality to the rice pudding, making it a truly distinctive treat.
- Use alternative milks: Embrace variety by substituting traditional cow’s milk with almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. Each milk brings its own distinct taste, allowing you to explore and find your preferred match.
- Sweeten to taste: Tailor the sweetness level to suit your cravings. Whether it’s sugar, honey, maple syrup, or alternative sweeteners like agave or stevia, add them gradually and taste as you go to achieve your perfect level of sweetness.
- Incorporate fruits and nuts: Introduce a burst of freshness by folding in your favorite fruits such as plump raisins, succulent chopped apples, sweet sliced bananas, or vibrant berries. For added crunch and texture, sprinkle toasted nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios on top – a delightful symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
- Drizzle with sauces: Elevate the indulgence by drizzling your rice pudding with velvety caramel sauce, rich chocolate sauce, or tangy fruit coulis. These sauces add a touch of decadence and elevate the dessert to new heights.
- Infuse with citrus zest: Give your rice pudding a zing of brightness by grating some lemon, lime, or orange zest into the mix. This refreshing twist pairs beautifully with the creamy base, creating a symphony of flavors on your palate.
Remember, as you embrace the world of customization, one word of caution: avoid using heavy cream, as it may curdle and lead to an unpleasant texture – yuck! Instead, rely on the myriad of other options available to create a sumptuous and uniquely yours Instant Pot rice pudding.
So, let your creativity soar and embark on a journey of taste exploration. Your Instant Pot rice pudding will become a canvas for your culinary artistry, delivering a dessert experience that satisfies not only your sweet tooth but also your heart’s desire for personalized delight. Happy experimenting!
Check out this dessert recipe using Earl Grey Tea: Earl Grey Amira Rice Pudding with Wine, Lemon and Vanilla Nectarines Recipe
You may also want to check out my Pinterest Instant Pot board for more great recipes like this pressure cooker rice pudding!
This easy instant pot rice pudding recipe is a basic recipe.
It is quick to make, and by adding toppings, you can customize it to your own liking.
It makes enough for the four of us to indulge and still have some leftover.
We love it warm.
Trust me; it’s so good warm.
We love it cold.
If it’s a special occasion or we have guests, we sometimes serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The hot and cold really makes it quite spectacular and it’s an easy dessert.
Please note that when you store it in the refrigerator, it will come back out “dry”… add a splash of milk (or other liquid) and stir back to your desired consistency.
I love that the ingredients are my pantry’s basic staples.
Seriously, you probably already have everything you need to make this Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe.
Start to finish it’s about 35-minutes. I can wash dishes from dinner and have dessert done at the same time.
When you take the lid off, it will look “mushy.”
Don’t panic
Just start adding the condensed milk and stirring.
It is going to get thicker the longer it sits.
Make a complete Spanish Meal that includes Abuela Approved Black Beans and Arroz con Pollo for a complete meal!
Here is the Instant pot version of my mother-in-law’s rice pudding.
Easy Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups milk (I use whole milk, but it’s up to you. Almond milk, coconut milk, or a combination of milk also works)
1¼ cups water
1 cup long-grained rice (you can use short-grain rice, jasmine rice, or arborio rice if you like)
1 can sweetened condensed milk
⅛ cup sugar (optional)
⅛ teaspoon sea salt (table salt works too)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon (more for garnish)
How to Make Rice Pudding in the Instant Pot:
Rinse rice well using a fine mesh colander (You don’t have to, sometimes I’m wild and throw it in without rinsing)
Add milk to the Instant Pot
Now add sugar to the electric pressure cooker (this is optional).
Next, add a pinch of salt to Instant Pot.
Pour the water into Instant Pot.
Now mix the rice with the milk mixture.
This is where you would add a cinnamon stick, lemon zest, fresh fruits (like raisins), or dried fruit if you wanted.
Stir
Place lid on Instant Pot, seal lid, and close vent.
Press the Porridge button.
If you don’t have a Porridge button, Manual high-pressure works.
The rice will take 20 minutes to cook time to cook in this setting.
When the timer beeps, allow Natural Pressure Release (Natural Release-NR) for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, press the Cancel button and Quick Release (open the vent to release pressure).
When depressurized, open the lid.
Add the sweetened Condensed milk and vanilla.
Stir until well mixed.
Serve in small bowls with optional toppings and additional milk if you like.
Enjoy this Easy Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe!
This sweet rice, an easy dessert, is the sweet stuff dreams are made from!
Why not give your Instant Pot a deep clean when you’re finished?
Leftovers:
You can serve your rice pudding immediately or let it cool to room temperature and store it in the fridge in an airtight container for a cold, breakfast (top it with fruit and add extra milk) or snack.
The pudding will keep in your fridge for about four days.
Unlike that other plain-cooked rice bowl, it probably won’t last that long.
Can I freeze Rice Pudding:
This fuss-free dessert can also last for up to three months frozen. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave on defrost is usually the easiest way to thaw rice pudding that has been frozen. I find it best to portion the rice pudding so I can defrost one serving at a time. You can place them in airtight containers or thick freezer bags (the latter allows better placement in the freezer). Just remove any excess air from the freezer bags, seal, and store.
Yes, you can freeze Instant Pot rice pudding.
Here’s how:
- Allow the rice pudding to cool completely. It’s important to freeze it when it’s at room temperature or chilled.
- Transfer the rice pudding to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Seal the container tightly to prevent freezer burn and place it in the freezer.
- When you’re ready to enjoy the rice pudding, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- To serve, you can enjoy it cold or reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy consistency if needed.
It’s worth noting that freezing may slightly change the texture of the rice pudding, but it should still be delicious and enjoyable after thawing.
Pressure Cooker Rice Pudding Tips Tricks and FAQs
Here are some instant pot tips and FAQs for making rice pudding:
- Use the right rice: Opt for medium grain rice, Arborio rice, or short-grain rice for the best results in achieving a creamy texture.
- Adjust liquid ratios: For a thicker pudding, use less liquid. If you prefer a more liquid consistency, add a bit more liquid to the recipe.
- Avoid overfilling: Rice and liquid expand during cooking, so avoid filling the Instant Pot beyond the recommended capacity to prevent spills and ensure even cooking.
- Natural release vs. quick release: Letting the pressure release naturally for a few minutes before doing a quick release can help prevent rice from splattering out through the valve.
- Stir after cooking: Once the rice pudding is done, stir it well to distribute any excess liquid and ensure a creamy consistency.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use different types of milk?
A: Yes, you can use various types of milk like whole milk, almond milk, coconut milk, or even a combination for a unique flavor profile.
Q: Can I add spices and flavorings?
A: Absolutely! Enhance your rice pudding with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, or flavorings like vanilla extract or almond extract for a delightful twist.
Q: How long does rice pudding last?
A: Stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, rice pudding can last for 3-5 days.
Q: Can I freeze rice pudding?
A: Yes, rice pudding can be frozen. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw and reheat gently when ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: You can double the ingredients for rice pudding, but avoid exceeding the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I make vegan rice pudding?
A: Substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, and use a vegan-friendly sweetener.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific Instant Pot model and refer to the recipe you’re using for precise measurements and cooking times.
What Rice Is Best for Rice Pudding?
While taste preferences may vary, here are some observations on the best rice options for Instant Pot rice pudding:
- Medium grain rice: Creates a creamy pudding with soft but not mushy rice grains, blending well with creamy sweetness.
- Arborio rice: A go-to choice that may require slightly more liquid, resulting in a rich and creamy pudding.
- Jasmine rice & short-grain rice: Ideal for achieving softer rice grains and a smoother texture in the pudding.
- Long-grain rice: Provides a firmer texture and more textural contrast in the pudding.
- Brown rice: While it works, it tends to be too firm and may not achieve the desired creamy texture.
- Basmati rice: Similar to long-grain rice, it offers a texture similar to that of long-grain rice.
Remember, using uncooked rice is essential as it allows the starch to thicken the milk mixture and coat the grains, resulting in the creamy texture rice pudding deserves. Avoid using cooked rice, as it will yield a mushy consistency instead.
What I’ve Learned About the Other Ingredients:
- Milk – it’s all good. Dairy, non-dairy like coconut milk, hemp milk, almond milk, and oat milk. They all work and are easy ways to change the flavor profile.
- Butter – I didn’t add this to the recipe, but try smearing your serving bowls with butter. It adds a nice flavor and ensures you get every grain!
- Sugar – The sweetened condensed milk offers sweetness. Adding any extra is optional. My family likes it extra sweet, but it’s not for everyone.
- Raisins (Sultanas) – You don’t have to soak the raisins if you add them to the pressure cooker. Try 1/2 cup of your favorite raisin variety!
Recipe Tips:
- I use white, long-grain rice in this recipe. Basmati or sushi rice is also a good choice. Jasmine rice and Basmati rice are less chewy than Arborio Rice.
- You may want to wait to add the sugar; condensed milk may add enough sweetness.
- Splurge on the nutmeg and cinnamon, even if it is just a dusting. It elevates the flavor incredibly.
- Add raisins to the pot if you want a more complex flavor, or you can add them at the end if you prefer a more chewy texture.
- Canned coconut milk is a delicious substitute if you prefer a more low fat version.
Is rice pudding served warm or cold?
Rice pudding can be served both warm and cold, depending on personal preference. Some enjoy it warm, freshly cooked and fragrant, while others prefer it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together for a refreshing dessert.
It is really up to you how you enjoy your rice pudding. Latin American countries prefer it warm–we do too…it’s creamy and delicious. We also like it the next day, cold–we just add milk to bring it back to the creamy texture.
Helpful Instant Pot Rice Pudding Tips:
Creating the perfect rice pudding requires a delicate balance of flavors and textures.
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your rice pudding turns out creamy, delicious, and absolutely delightful:
- Choose the right rice: Use short-grain rice, such as Arborio or sushi rice, for the best results. These rice varieties are high in starch content, which helps create a creamy texture.
- Rinse the rice: Before cooking, rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch. This will prevent the rice pudding from becoming overly sticky.
- Don’t skimp on liquid: Ensure you have enough liquid in the Instant Pot to cook the rice properly and create the desired creamy consistency. A good rule of thumb is to use about 2 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of rice.
- Add sweetness gradually: If you’re using sugar or another sweetener, add it gradually to avoid oversweetening the pudding. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.
- Use the sauté function wisely: When cooking the rice initially, use the sauté function to bring the liquid to a gentle simmer before sealing the Instant Pot. This will help prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Flavor creatively: Experiment with different flavorings like vanilla, spices, extracts, or citrus zest to add depth and complexity to your rice pudding. However, avoid using heavy cream, as it may curdle during cooking.
- Cool and thicken: After cooking, allow the rice pudding to cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit liquidy right after cooking.
- Serve warm or chilled: Rice pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Some people prefer it warm and comforting, while others savor it cold on a hot day.
- Garnish with style: Sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or any other favorite topping on top of the rice pudding just before serving. The garnish adds both visual appeal and extra flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll master the art of making rice pudding and treat yourself to a dessert that’s truly worth savoring.

Instant Pot Rice Pudding Recipe
This is the most amazing Instant Pot rice pudding recipe ever. It takes just 20 minutes in the pressure cooker. Plus you probably already have the ingredients for this pressure cooker rice pudding in your pantry.
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (I use whole, but it's up to you)
- 1¼ cups water
- 1 cup long-grained rice (you can use short-grain if you like)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅛ cup sugar (I use Vanilla sugar)
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt (table salt works too)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Rinse rice well using a fine mesh colander
- Add milk, sugar, water, and sea salt to Instant Pot
- Add rice to the milk mixture.
- Stir
- Place lid on Instant Pot, seal lid, and close vent.
- Press the Porridge button. The rice will take 20 minutes to cook in this setting.
- When the timer beeps, allow Natural Pressure
- Release for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, press the Cancel button and open vent to release pressure.
- When depressurized, open lid.
- Add Sweetened Condensed milk and vanilla.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Serve with an optional choice of toppings.
Notes
When you take the lid off, it will look “mushy”. Don’t panic. Just start adding the condensed milk and stirring. It is going to get thicker the longer it sits.
When you store it in the refrigerator it will come back out “dry”…just add milk (or other liquid) and stir back to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 171Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 143mgCarbohydrates: 29gFiber: 0gSugar: 11gProtein: 6g
Nutritional information may not be accurate
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About Julee:
Julee Morrison is a blogger and mother of six living in Virginia’s foothills with their four dogs.
Her first book The Instant Pot® College Cookbook: 75 Quick and Easy Meals that Taste Like Home, celebrates her family recipes and making quick meals everyone will love.
Her writing has appeared on The Huffington Post, Scary Mommy, Pop Sugar, SheKnows, Yahoo Shine, Love What Matters, and Ellen Nation. Her recipes have been featured on Bon Appetite, SparkPeople, and The Huffington Post.