Name: Creamy Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding for Pure Comfort
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed); 2 cups coconut milk (full-fat recommended); 1 cup water; ½ cup granulated sugar (can substitute with maple syrup); 1 pinch salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (ensure vegan-friendly); ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 pinch ground nutmeg

As I stirred the pot, the sweet aroma of coconut wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean. This Creamy Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding is a vibrant reminder that dessert can be both comforting and light, making it the perfect choice when you want to indulge without the heaviness. With its lush coconut milk and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this vegan-friendly and gluten-free delight ensures everyone can savor its tropical essence. Better yet, it comes together quickly using pantry staples, making it an effortless crowd-pleaser for any occasion. So, are you ready to whip up this tropical treasure that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings?

Why is this pudding a must-try?

Simplicity reigns in this delicious recipe, allowing you to create a mouthwatering dessert with minimal effort. Tropical flavors shine through the creamy coconut and warm spices, making each spoonful a delight. Vegan-friendly and gluten-free, it caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Perfect for any occasion, it impresses guests, whether served warm or chilled. If you love desserts like Coconut Snowball Truffles or are in the mood for something classic like Chris Corn Pudding, this is a wonderful addition to your collection!

Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding Ingredients

• To create this delightful dessert, here’s what you’ll need.

For the Pudding

Long-grain white rice – Provides structure and creaminess; avoid substituting with brown rice as it requires different cooking times.
Coconut milk – Adds luxurious creaminess and tropical flavor; using full-fat ensures a richer pudding.
Water – Combines with coconut milk for the right consistency.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dish perfectly; can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan twist.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the pudding.
Vanilla extract – Infuses warm, aromatic flavor; ensure it’s vegan-friendly if needed.
Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and complements the sweetness beautifully.
Ground nutmeg – Complements the spices with a hint of nutty flavor, enhancing the tropical experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding

Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain white rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, preventing the rice pudding from becoming gummy. Take your time here, as this helps to ensure a perfectly creamy Caribbean coconut rice pudding.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Pot
In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of full-fat coconut milk, 1 cup of water, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to blend all the ingredients together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated. This mixture will cook down to create that luscious, tropical flavor that defines the pudding.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Turn on the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As it heats, keep an eye out for bubbles breaking the surface. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid, trapping the steam to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Rice
Allow the rice to simmer gently over low heat for about 20 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes to avoid scorching and to check for doneness. You want the rice to be tender but still have a slight bite, constructing that perfect texture for your Caribbean coconut rice pudding.

Step 5: Add Flavorings
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and carefully stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. The warm spices will elevate the comforting flavors of the pudding. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes with the lid on to allow it to thicken beautifully.

Step 6: Serve or Chill
Now, your creamy Caribbean coconut rice pudding is ready to be served! You can enjoy it warm for that cozy feel or transfer it to individual bowls and chill it in the fridge if you prefer a thicker texture. Whichever way you choose, this dessert is bound to bring you a taste of the tropics with every delicious spoonful.

What to Serve with Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding

Indulging in a bowl of creamy coconut rice pudding is just the beginning of a tropical dining experience.

Fresh Mango Slices: The sweet, juicy flavor of ripe mango adds a bright contrast to the creamy pudding, enhancing its tropical vibe.
Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie blended with pineapple and coconut milk complements the dessert beautifully, echoing the Caribbean theme.
Crispy Coconut Meringues: These light and airy cookies offer a delightful crunch that balances the pudding’s creamy texture, making every bite a treat.
Chilled Passion Fruit Sorbet: The tartness of passion fruit sorbet refreshes the palate, providing a delightful balance to the sweetness of the pudding.
Warm Cinnamon Buns: Soft, gooey buns with a hint of cinnamon echo the spices in the pudding, creating a cozy and comforting meal pairing.
Mint-Infused Iced Tea: The refreshing notes of mint in chilled tea cleanse the palate while promoting a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying your dessert.
Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of walnuts or almonds adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enriching the overall experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of dark chocolate brings a luxurious flair, perfect for those who love the harmony of coconut and chocolate.

Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Caribbean coconut rice pudding recipe and customize it to your liking!

Tropical Toppings: Add toasted coconut flakes, sliced bananas, or fresh mango for a delicious fruit twist. Each bite becomes a journey through a tropical paradise.
Healthier Option: Substitute half the full-fat coconut milk with light coconut milk to lighten the pudding while still keeping its creamy richness.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for a delightful crunch and added texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pudding.
Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness, creating a unique flavor profile.
Maple Sweetness: Swap out granulated sugar for pure maple syrup—it adds a lovely, rich flavor and keeps the recipe vegan-friendly.
Choco-Coconut Fusion: Try adding cocoa powder for a chocolaty version of this pudding. The combination of chocolate and coconut is downright heavenly!
Dessert Parfait: Layer chilled pudding with your favorite fruits and granola to create an eye-catching and delicious parfait. Perfect for serving at gatherings!
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of rum or coconut rum for an adult twist that truly captures the spirit of Caribbean cuisine.

If you’re a fan of delightful desserts, don’t forget to check out my recipes for Banana Pudding Pie or Chris Corn Pudding. They’re sure to bring a smile to your loved ones!

Make Ahead Options

These Caribbean coconut rice pudding delights are perfect for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the pudding base up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it and then allowing it to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. To maintain its creamy texture, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent skin formation. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring in a bit of coconut milk to restore creaminess. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a comforting dessert ready with minimal effort, perfect for impressing family and friends!

Expert Tips for Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch; this prevents gumminess in your Caribbean coconut rice pudding.
Watch Your Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer; too high of heat can scorch the pudding, ruining its creamy texture. Stir often for the best results.
Let It Rest: Allow the pudding to sit with the lid on for 5 minutes after cooking to thicken perfectly. This step enhances the creamy consistency.
Mind the Transit: If the pudding does scorch, transfer only the unburnt mixture to a new pot, avoiding any burnt bits that could impart bitter flavors.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to avoid skin formation, preserving freshness and texture.

How to Store and Freeze Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding

Fridge: Store leftover Caribbean coconut rice pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Press plastic wrap against the surface to prevent skin formation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers, leaving room for expansion. It will last up to 1 month in the freezer.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess if needed.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pudding at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its freshness.

Caribbean Coconut Rice Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of rice should I use for the best results?
Absolutely, long-grain white rice is the way to go for a creamy texture in your Caribbean coconut rice pudding. Avoid using brown rice, as it requires different cooking times and will not yield the same delightful consistency.

How should I store leftover rice pudding?
To keep your Caribbean coconut rice pudding fresh, store it in an airtight container and press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface to prevent a skin from forming. It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge, allowing for that comforting taste whenever you crave it.

Can I freeze the pudding for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can! Portion your Caribbean coconut rice pudding into airtight containers, leaving some room for it to expand as it freezes. It’s best consumed within 1 month, but be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of coconut milk to bring back that delicious creaminess.

What if my pudding is too thick after cooking?
Very good question! If your pudding turns out thicker than expected, don’t worry. You can simply stir in a bit of coconut milk or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Also, ensure you’re monitoring the cooking time and heat—cooking it too long can lead to a thicker texture than desired.

Is this recipe safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This Caribbean coconut rice pudding is vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for anyone with dietary concerns. However, if there are additional allergens like nuts or soy, make sure to read the labels of your coconut milk and any toppings you choose to use.

What signs indicate that my coconut milk has gone bad?
Oh, that’s important to watch out for! Coconut milk should have a creamy texture and a pleasant coconut aroma. If you see separation, dark spots, or any signs of mold, it’s best to discard it. Always check the expiration date and give it a sniff before using to ensure you’re working with fresh ingredients!