Cozy Slow Cooker Rice Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every creamy spoonful. Made with simple pantry ingredients and gently cooked to perfection, this classic treat transforms rice, milk, and sugar into a rich, velvety pudding that feels both humble and indulgent.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop gradually while creating a luxuriously creamy texture without constant stirring. Whether served warm on a cold evening or chilled for a refreshing dessert, rice pudding remains a timeless favorite.
Why Make Rice Pudding in a Slow Cooker
Traditional stovetop rice pudding requires frequent stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. A slow cooker simplifies the process by maintaining gentle, consistent heat. This method allows the rice to absorb the milk slowly, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency.
The slow cooking process also enhances the flavor, giving the pudding a subtle depth that feels richer and more developed than quick-cooked versions.
Ingredients
* 3/4 cup uncooked Arborio rice or short-grain white rice
* 4 cups whole milk
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
* 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
* 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
How to Prepare Cozy Slow Cooker Rice Pudding
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter to prevent sticking. Add the uncooked rice, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Cover and cook on low for approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking if possible. The rice will gradually soften and absorb much of the liquid, creating a thick and creamy texture.
About 20 minutes before the cooking time is complete, stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and raisins if using. Continue cooking until the rice is tender and the pudding reaches your desired consistency.
If the pudding appears slightly loose at first, allow it to rest uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. It will thicken further as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
Serve rice pudding warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top. A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce can add extra sweetness and depth.
For a chilled version, refrigerate the pudding for several hours and serve with fresh berries or toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
Tips for Perfect Texture
Short-grain rice works best because it releases more starch, which contributes to creaminess. Avoid rinsing the rice before cooking, as the surface starch helps thicken the pudding naturally.
If the pudding becomes too thick after refrigeration, stir in a small splash of warm milk until the desired consistency returns.
For a richer variation, replace part of the whole milk with additional heavy cream.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen the texture.
Final Thoughts
Cozy Slow Cooker Rice Pudding captures the essence of homemade comfort food. Its creamy texture, gentle sweetness, and warm aroma make it a dessert that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.
With minimal preparation and effortless slow cooking, this recipe delivers dependable results and timeless flavor every time.