Appetizer & Dessert

Rice Pudding Recipe with Leftover Rice – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Rice Pudding Recipe with Leftover Rice – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1/3 cup dark raisins; 1/3 cup golden sultanas; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup full-fat milk; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg; 1/3 cup granulated sugar

Willie Regan February 11, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Imagine opening your refrigerator. You see the remnants of last night’s dinner: a bowl of leftover rice. What do you do? Toss it out or throw it into a stir-fry? How about transforming it into something creamy and comforting?

Yes, I’m talking about rice pudding! This recipe is not just a way to use up leftover rice; it’s an invitation to indulge in a delightful dessert that will take you back to your childhood.

I’ll share with you a simple yet delicious rice pudding recipe that puts those leftover grains to work. So, let’s dive in together!

What is Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice?

Rice pudding is a classic dessert made from rice, milk, and a sweetener. It’s typically cooked slowly to achieve a delightful creamy texture. When you use leftover rice, you cut down on cooking time.

You essentially skip the tedious part of boiling and cooking the rice until it’s softer than a cloud. Instead, you get to focus on mixing and heating up the already-cooked rice, which makes the process faster and more efficient.

This dish can be served warm or cold and can be dressed up however you like. Just a little sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of raisins can bring it to life.

Why You’ll Love This Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice

There are countless reasons to fall in love with rice pudding made from leftover rice.

It minimizes food waste.
It requires ingredients that you likely have on hand.
It’s simple and makes the most out of what you already have.
It’s a comforting and shareable dessert.

Finally, let’s not forget the joy of sharing this homemade dessert with friends and family. Picture it: everyone gathers around the table, bowls in hand, ready to savor a treat made with thought and care. There’s something about the rich, velvety texture and sweet aroma that makes it comforting.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious rice pudding:

⅓ cup dark raisins
⅓ cup golden sultanas
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 ½ cups cooked white rice
1 cup full-fat milk (or use coconut milk for a tropical twist)
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste
½ cup heavy whipping cream
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
⅓ cup granulated sugar

These ingredients make for a lush pudding that’s a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, the blend of textures and flavors is simply irresistible!

Rice Pudding Copycat Recipe with Leftover Rice

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Raisins

Start by soaking the dark raisins and golden sultanas in warm water. Let them sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will plump them up and add moisture to the pudding.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Pay attention here; you don’t want it to brown. Just a gentle melting will do.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked rice to the melted butter. Stir it up a bit to ensure it evenly coats the rice. Then, sprinkle in the brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and vanilla bean paste. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Add the Milk and Cream

Pour in the milk and heavy whipping cream. This is where the magic begins. Stir the mixture continuously until it’s heated through. You want a gentle simmer, so keep an eye on the heat.

Step 5: Incorporate the Egg

In a small bowl, beat the egg lightly. To temper the egg, gradually mix in about a cup of the warm rice mixture. This step is essential; it prevents the egg from scrambling when added to the hot mixture. After tempering, add the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Stir well.

Step 6: Cook Until Thickened

Continue cooking the pudding on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. Stir frequently. You’re aiming for a thick, luscious blend. Remember, it will thicken a bit more as it cools.

Step 7: Add the Raisins

At this point, don’t forget the raisins! Drain them from their soaking liquid and fold them into the pudding.

Step 8: Final Touches

Sprinkle in a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. It adds such a lovely flavor. Give everything one last good stir. Taste it! Adjust the sweetness if needed, and then remove from heat.

Step 9: Serve

You can serve the pudding warm or create a chilled version. If serving warm, you might like to present it in small ramekins. If you prefer it cold, allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least an hour.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t Overcook the Pudding: Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning. Stir frequently.
Experiment with Flavors: Add nutmeg, coconut flakes, or even a splash of almond extract for variation.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk such as almond or coconut milk.
Storage: Rice pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Don’t forget to cover it!
Topping Options: Consider fresh berries, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce to elevate the presentation.

Can I Store Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice?

Absolutely! In fact, rice pudding often tastes even better the next day. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure it is cooled to room temperature before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can eat it cold or warm a bit in the microwave.

What Can I Serve with Rice Pudding with Leftover Rice?

Many delightful accompaniments can enhance your rice pudding experience.

Fresh Fruit: Sliced strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes everything better.
Spiced Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can provide an interesting crunch.
Chocolates: Dark chocolate shavings can add an irresistible element.
Coconut Flakes: Sweetened coconut gives an exotic touch and texture.

Variations

Creating variations with rice pudding is a fun experiment! Here are five ideas to get you started:

Chocolate Rice Pudding: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate during the cooking process for a rich treat.
Tropical Pudding: Use coconut milk and incorporate pineapple pieces or mango for a tropical twist.
Spice It Up: Add cardamom and ginger for a warming flavor profile in cooler months.
Pumpkin Spice Pudding: Use puree pumpkin and add pumpkin spice mix. It’s perfect for fall!
Nutty Rice Pudding: Stir in finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts before serving for added crunch.

Best Rice Pudding Recipe with Leftover Rice

Conclusion

Rice pudding with leftover rice is not just a way to avoid waste; it’s an opportunity to enjoy a comforting dessert that caters to all tastes. With this easy recipe, you can impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Feel free to explore variations and personalize it to your heart’s content. Enjoy this lovely dish, warm or cold, and share the joy of cooking with those around you. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Rice Pudding Recipe with Leftover Rice – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 396 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Yes, I’m talking about rice pudding! This recipe is not just a way to use up leftover rice; it's an invitation to indulge in a delightful dessert that will take you back to your childhood.