This silky, comforting treat comes together effortlessly with help from your slow cooker. The gentle heat coaxes out deep layers of flavor—with warm cinnamon, sweet maple syrup, and a hint of creamy vanilla. The result? Pure bliss in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings or a sweet indulgence any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups whole milk (or your favorite milk alternative)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: fresh berries, chopped nuts, or extra cinnamon sugar
Instructions
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. First, add the rinsed rice along with the milk to the slow cooker. Stir in the maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Then, secure the lid and set your slow cooker to low. Let the rice mixture cook for about three to four hours, stirring once or twice halfway through to break up any clumps.
When the pudding is done, it will have a luscious, creamy texture and the grains will be fully tender. Turn off the slow cooker, stir the mixture well, and taste for sweetness—adding an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired. Serve the pudding warm in bowls, topped with fresh berries, toasted nuts, or just a sprinkle of cinnamon for the finishing touch.
Enjoy your warm rice pudding right away, or chill it for a thicker, custard-like treat.
Slow Cooker Rice Pudding is a delightful comfort food that caters to both sweet tooth cravings and minimalist cooking enthusiasts. The slow cooker handles most of the work, offering a fuss-free dessert (or even a sweet breakfast!) the whole family can savor. For those seeking a lighter version, low-fat or plant-based milks can fit seamlessly.
Experiment with additional flavor twists—like cardamom, nutmeg, or even dried fruits for a chewy burst of sweetness. Whether you’re aiming to please a crowd or just your own cozy craving, this recipe brings all the creamy warmth you could ever need.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
