Almond Milk Rice Pudding Recipe for Creamy Dessert Bliss

Updated On: October 12, 2025

Rice pudding has always been a beloved comfort dessert across cultures, cherished for its creamy texture and soothing flavors. But what if you want to enjoy this classic treat in a dairy-free, vegan-friendly way?

Enter almond milk rice pudding—a delightful twist that keeps the warmth and indulgence of traditional rice pudding while making it suitable for those avoiding dairy. Almond milk lends a subtle nutty taste and a velvety smoothness that perfectly complements the soft, tender rice.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also nourishing, making it a fantastic choice for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack on a chilly evening.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking to try something new, this almond milk rice pudding recipe offers a delicious and wholesome alternative. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite spices and toppings, allowing you to create a dessert that’s uniquely yours.

Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why this almond milk rice pudding will quickly become one of your go-to treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This almond milk rice pudding recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Dairy-free and vegan: Using almond milk makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
  • Rich and creamy texture: Despite being plant-based, the pudding is indulgently creamy and satisfying.
  • Quick and easy to make: With just a few staple ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly on the stovetop.
  • Customizable flavors: Add cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, or even fruit to tailor it to your taste buds.
  • Comfort food that’s nutritious: Almond milk provides healthy fats and vitamins, while rice offers a good source of energy.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice (short-grain rice works best for creaminess)
  • 4 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or sweetener of choice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional toppings: toasted sliced almonds, fresh berries, shredded coconut, or ground nutmeg

Equipment

  • Medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Bowl for serving
  • Optional: fine mesh strainer (if rinsing rice)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing the Arborio rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too gluey. Drain well.
  2. Combine rice and almond milk: In your saucepan, add the rinsed rice and 4 cups of unsweetened almond milk. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Simmer the pudding: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir frequently, about every 5 minutes, to keep the rice from sticking and burning at the bottom. This process should take about 25-30 minutes.
  5. Add sweetener and flavorings: When the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency, stir in 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Cook a little longer: Continue cooking for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to thicken further. If the pudding becomes too thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen it.
  7. Serve warm or chilled: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, or refrigerate for a few hours to enjoy it chilled.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra creamy pudding, try soaking the Arborio rice for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the rice absorb more liquid and results in a softer texture.”

  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg for an exotic twist.
  • Sweetener alternatives: Use agave syrup, coconut sugar, or brown sugar instead of maple syrup.
  • Fruit additions: Stir in fresh or dried fruits like raisins, chopped dates, or blueberries during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Nut butter swirl: For extra richness, swirl in a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter before serving.
  • Make it savory: For a unique take, reduce the sweetener and add a pinch of salt with freshly ground black pepper and fresh herbs for a savory rice pudding variant.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 180
Carbohydrates 33g
Protein 3g
Fat 4g
Fiber 1g
Sugar 10g
Calcium 300mg (from almond milk)

Serving Suggestions

This almond milk rice pudding is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

  • Top with toasted almond slivers and a drizzle of maple syrup for added crunch and sweetness.
  • Serve chilled with fresh seasonal fruits like mango, strawberries, or peaches for a refreshing treat.
  • Pair with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg powder for an aromatic finish.
  • For a decadent dessert, add a dollop of coconut whipped cream or vegan yogurt on top.

For more delicious plant-based dessert ideas, check out our Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy and Vegan Icecream Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious Treats.

Conclusion

Almond milk rice pudding is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert without dairy, and it’s perfect for anyone seeking a comforting, wholesome treat. The creamy texture combined with the subtle nutty flavor of almond milk creates a soothing and satisfying dish that can be served warm or cold.

Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while its versatility means you can tailor it to suit your own tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you’re after a cozy breakfast or a sweet ending to your day, this almond milk rice pudding is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different spices and toppings to keep things fresh and exciting.

For more easy and delicious vegan recipes, explore our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious and Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious. Happy cooking and indulging!

📖 Recipe Card: Almond Milk Rice Pudding

Description: A creamy and comforting rice pudding made with almond milk for a dairy-free twist. Perfect as a sweet snack or dessert.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine almond milk, rice, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring frequently.
  4. Cook for about 35 minutes until rice is tender and mixture thickens.
  5. Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then stir into the pudding and cook for 5 more minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  7. Serve warm or chilled, topped with sliced almonds and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 3.5 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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