Rice pudding is a beloved dessert across many cultures, bringing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. In India, this creamy delight takes on various flavors and styles, often incorporating healthy ingredients that make it even more delightful. Get ready to explore four irresistible rice pudding recipes that not only taste amazing but also add a nutritious twist to your dessert table!
Classic Kheer with a Twist
Mango Kheer | Indian Mango Rice Pudding from Aromatic Essence
Ingredients: Fresh mango pulp, dried rose petals, cashew nuts, saffron, sugar Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.
Indian Rice Kheer – Instant Pot / Cooker / Stovetop version from Spices N Flavors
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Condensed milk, basmati rice, jelly, cashew nuts, clarified butter Total Time: 50 min.
Vegan Rice Kheer Pudding Recipe: A Creamy, Plant-Based Twist on a Classic Indian Dessert from Veggiecurean
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Brown rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, almond milk, maple syrup Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.
This traditional Indian dessert is a creamy rice pudding flavored with cardamom and topped with nuts. Made with brown rice, it offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing the rich taste. The addition of jaggery instead of sugar gives it a unique depth of flavor that you won’t forget!
The kheer is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, while the nuts add a crunchy texture. Enjoy it warm or chilled; either way, it’s a treat you can’t resist.
Coconut Chia Rice Pudding

Chia Coconut Pudding with Coconut Milk from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Coconut milk, unsweetened coconut milk, chia seeds, fresh strawberries, cinnamon Total Time: 30 min.

Coconut Chia Pudding from Choosing Chia
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Light coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, unsweetened coconut, vanilla extract Total Time: 10 min.

Vegan coconut rice pudding from Choosing Chia
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Light coconut milk, jasmine rice, maple syrup, orange zest, cinnamon stick Total Time: 25 min.
If you love coconut, this rice pudding will be your new favorite! With the creamy goodness of coconut milk and the health benefits of chia seeds, every bite feels like a tropical getaway. Sweetened with honey and topped with fresh fruits, this dish is not just a dessert but a nutritious snack!
The chia seeds add a delightful texture and a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat after dinner. You’ll find yourself making it over and over again!
Spiced Quinoa Rice Pudding

Quinoa Pudding Recipe (Low Sugar) from Everyday Healthy Recipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.

Rice and Quinoa Breakfast Pudding from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
This recipe takes a modern spin on the classic pudding by incorporating quinoa instead of traditional rice. The result is a protein-packed dessert that’s just as creamy and flavorful. Infused with cinnamon and a hint of vanilla, it’s comforting yet health-conscious.
Quinoa cooks quickly and has a lovely nutty flavor, making this pudding a breeze to whip up. Top it off with some sliced almonds or fresh berries for an extra crunch and a pop of color!
Almond Milk and Saffron Rice Pudding

Saffron-Almond Rice Pudding from Robin Robertson
Ingredients: Almond butter, basmati rice, almond milk, maple syrup, saffron

Saffron Rice Pudding from Food & Wine
Ingredients: Sweet rice, heavy cream, cooked rice, whole milk, saffron threads Total Time: 30 min.

Vegan Saffron-Almond Rice Pudding Recipe from Food Republic
Ingredients: Almond butter, basmati rice, almond milk, maple syrup, saffron Total Time: 45 min.
This luxurious pudding combines the richness of almond milk with the aromatic essence of saffron. The use of almond milk makes it a fantastic dairy-free option while still being creamy and satisfying. With a touch of sweetness from agave syrup, this dessert is simply divine!
What sets this recipe apart is the beautiful golden hue from the saffron, making it a showstopper at any gathering. Garnish with slivers of pistachios for that extra flair, and watch your guests fall in love with this exquisite treat!