Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Slow cooker rice pudding is a comforting, creamy dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum deliciousness. This easy recipe allows the flavors to meld gently over time, resulting in a perfectly tender and rich pudding.

Ingredients
- ¾ cup uncooked white rice (short-grain or medium-grain works best)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Add the rice, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- Step 3: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–5 hours. Stir every 45–60 minutes if possible to prevent the rice from sticking and to help it cook evenly.
- Step 4: Once the rice is tender and the mixture is thick and creamy, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5: Add cinnamon and raisins if using, stirring to combine.
- Step 6: If the pudding becomes too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Step 7: Let the pudding sit uncovered for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use short-grain rice for a creamier texture, but medium-grain works well too.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with cinnamon for extra warmth and spice.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, though cooking times may vary.
- Mix in toasted nuts or coconut flakes for added texture before serving.
Storage
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the pudding if it thickens too much when chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
Short-grain or medium-grain rice is best for a creamy texture. Long-grain rice tends to be less starchy and may result in a less creamy pudding, but it can still be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Do I need to stir the pudding while it cooks?
Stirring every 45–60 minutes helps prevent the rice from sticking to the slow cooker and ensures even cooking, but if you’re busy, it’s okay to stir less often—just be careful near the end to avoid burning.
PrintSlow Cooker Rice Pudding Recipe
This creamy Slow Cooker Rice Pudding is an easy and comforting dessert made by slowly cooking rice with milk, cream, sugar, and a touch of vanilla until perfectly tender and rich. Optional cinnamon and raisins add warm spices and sweetness, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 5 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¾ cup uncooked white rice (short-grain or medium-grain works best)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter to prevent the rice pudding from sticking during cooking.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked rice, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients well.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–5 hours. Stir the mixture every 45–60 minutes if possible to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Finish the Pudding: When the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency, stir in the vanilla extract. If using, add the ground cinnamon and raisins, mixing well. If the pudding is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the pudding sit uncovered for about 10 minutes after cooking. It will thicken further as it cools, resulting in a smooth and luscious texture ready to serve.
Notes
- Stirring occasionally during cooking helps prevent rice from sticking to the slow cooker sides and improves texture.
- You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits such as chopped dates or dried cranberries.
- Use short-grain rice for a creamier pudding, but medium-grain rice works well too.
- Adjust the sugar amount according to your preference for sweetness.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whole milk but note the texture will be less rich.
Keywords: rice pudding, slow cooker dessert, creamy rice pudding, easy dessert recipe, cinnamon rice pudding, raisin dessert

