Pumpkin Rice Pudding – A Creamy, Cozy Dessert with a Fall Twist That Will Leave You Craving More!

If you're in the mood for a comforting, cozy dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and maple syrup, this Pumpkin Rice Pudding is a must-try! With its creamy texture and warm spices, this pudding will fill your home with the aroma of fall and leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Whether you opt for the traditional creamy milk or the coconut milk version for a dairy-free twist, this dessert is a delightful treat for any time of year.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Pumpkin Rice Pudding

Pumpkin-flavored everything is a hallmark of the fall season, but this recipe takes it to the next level with a comforting bowl of rice pudding. Rice pudding is a timeless, cozy dessert enjoyed across cultures, and adding pumpkin, warm spices, and maple syrup makes this version extra special. With the option to use coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, this versatile dessert is perfect for sharing with friends and family during chilly fall evenings, or just indulging in a cozy night in. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or a quiet dessert, this Pumpkin Rice Pudding is sure to impress.

Why Pumpkin Rice Pudding Will Be Your Go-To Fall Dessert

This pudding has everything you love about fall wrapped into one creamy, dreamy bowl. Arborio rice cooked slowly with milk or coconut milk gives it a luscious, smooth texture. The pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and pumpkin pie spice create a delicious fall flavor that’s hard to resist. Maple syrup adds the perfect touch of sweetness, while the raisins and coconut flakes add texture and a bit of natural sweetness. Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert is satisfying, nostalgic, and full of cozy flavors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fiber: 2g

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pumpkin Rice Pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled. If you want to go the extra mile, drizzle a bit of warm maple syrup or sprinkle some cinnamon over the top just before serving. This dessert is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For an extra indulgent experience, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Storage and Reheating Tips

You can store any leftover Pumpkin Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or coconut milk to loosen it up if needed. You can also microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds. This pudding also tastes great cold, so feel free to enjoy it straight out of the fridge!

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Fun Fact: The Global Love for Rice Pudding

Rice pudding is enjoyed in many countries around the world, each adding their own unique twist. From Arroz con Leche in Spain and Latin America to Kheer in India, this creamy dessert has been cherished for centuries. This version, infused with the flavors of fall, puts an autumnal spin on a beloved global favorite.

Cooking Tips

• Creamier Pudding: If you prefer an extra creamy texture, consider stirring in a bit more milk or coconut milk toward the end of cooking.
• Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less maple syrup. You can also swap in honey or brown sugar for a different flavor.
• Customize with Spices: Feel free to play around with spices! A pinch of nutmeg or a little extra cinnamon can elevate the flavor even more.

Optional Variations

• Coconut Lovers: For even more coconut flavor, add a splash of coconut extract or top the pudding with toasted coconut flakes before serving.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk in place of whole milk and coconut cream instead of evaporated milk to make this pudding fully dairy-free.

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Pumpkin Rice Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 3 cups whole milk or coconut milk (for a dairy-free version)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• 1-¼ cup evaporated milk (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
• ½ cup + 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
• ½ teaspoon vanilla paste
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom
• ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ cup raisins
• Drizzle of maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, 3 cups of milk (or coconut milk), sea salt, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring often to prevent the rice from sticking or the milk from boiling over.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring regularly, until the rice is soft and has absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the canned pumpkin puree, evaporated milk (or coconut cream), maple syrup, vanilla paste, cardamom, coconut flakes, pumpkin pie spice, and raisins. Mix well to fully incorporate all the ingredients.
4. Continue cooking: Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the pudding becomes creamy and thick. If the pudding becomes too thick, add more milk or coconut milk as needed. Keep in mind that the pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Serve: Once the pudding is ready, remove from heat. Serve in bowls and drizzle with maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Enjoy warm or chill in the refrigerator for a cold treat.

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Pumpkin Rice Pudding is the perfect autumn-inspired dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin pie with the creamy goodness of rice pudding. It's a cozy, satisfying, and versatile dish that can be made with regular milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Whether you’re serving it to guests or indulging in a bowl yourself, this pudding is bound to become a fall favorite. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting treat!