Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding

Name: Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups almond milk; ½ cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; Pinch of salt; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Family Favorites

I absolutely love making Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding for a quick and satisfying dessert. The creamy, dreamy texture perfectly balances the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of coconut milk. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor that brings tropical vibes right to my kitchen. It’s a comforting dish that not only satisfies my cravings but is also quite simple to prepare. Perfect for any occasion, this pudding will surely be a hit with friends and family!

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-08T18:49:28.405Z

When I first crafted this Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding, I wanted to blend my favorite tropical flavors into a comforting dessert. The creamy coconut milk serves as the perfect base, providing a rich texture that pairs beautifully with ripe strawberries. Using jasmine rice adds a lovely fragrance and subtle sweetness. I discovered that simmering the rice slowly allows it to absorb all the coconut flavor while remaining tender and creamy.

This dish is now a staple in my home, especially during the warm months when strawberries are at their peak. I recommend letting the pudding chill for a bit before serving; it enhances the flavors and gives a refreshingly cool bite. Enjoying this pudding while reminiscing about beach vacations has become a delightful tradition in my family!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich coconut flavor complements sweet strawberries effortlessly
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Simple preparation makes it perfect for casual gatherings
A delightful twist on traditional rice pudding

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this pudding, providing a rich, creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. Using full-fat coconut milk ensures that the pudding achieves that velvety consistency that makes it so appealing. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can opt for light coconut milk, but be aware that this may affect the creaminess and the overall mouthfeel of the pudding.

The natural sweetness of coconut milk complements the strawberries beautifully, making it essential to the pudding's flavor. Even though sugar is included, you may find that the coconut milk adds enough sweetness on its own—so feel free to adjust the sugar based on your preference.

Perfecting the Rice Cooking Technique

When cooking the jasmine rice, it's crucial to maintain a gentle boil before reducing the heat. If the heat is too high, the mixture can become sticky or even burn at the bottom, ruining the pudding’s consistency. Stirring occasionally helps ensure that nothing sticks and that the rice cooks evenly, which typically takes about 25 minutes.

If you notice the pudding is too thick before the rice is tender, add a splash of almond milk to loosen it. A well-prepared rice pudding should be creamy without any graininess, so pay attention to the texture as it simmers.

Serving and Storage Tips

Allowing the pudding to chill for at least 30 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also allows it to set up properly, creating a delightful experience. I recommend serving it in clear bowls to showcase the lovely pink hue from the strawberries. Garnishing with fresh mint leaves not only adds a pop of color but will also give a refreshing aroma that elevates the dish.

For make-ahead options, the pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, be cautious as the texture might change once thawed. To thaw, simply transfer it back to the refrigerator for a few hours and give it a gentle stir before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making this delicious Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 cups almond milk
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Pinch of salt
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and results in a better texture.

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, almond milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.

Add Vanilla and Strawberries

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped strawberries. Allow the pudding to cool slightly.

Serve

Scoop the pudding into serving bowls and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with mint leaves before serving for a refreshing touch.

Your Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top before serving. It adds both texture and a delightful crunch!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find jasmine rice, other short-grain rices like arborio or sushi rice work in a pinch, though they may yield a slightly different texture. For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options, almond milk is a great alternative, but coconut milk remains integral for flavor.

You can also experiment with different fruits like mango or diced peaches if strawberries aren’t available. The key is to maintain a balance of sweetness; adjust the sugar accordingly based on the fruit you choose. If you prefer a tropical twist, consider adding a handful of shredded coconut for added texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pudding appears too runny after cooking, this could mean the cooking time was insufficient or the heat setting too low. A simple fix is to return it to low heat and let it simmer uncovered until thickened to your desired consistency. Stir often to prevent sticking.

Conversely, if the pudding has become too thick, adding a splash of warm almond milk can bring it back to a creamy texture. Always taste as you adjust, ensuring that the flavors remain harmonious and the dessert is just the way you like!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, you can use arborio rice or short-grain rice, but the cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a non-dairy option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace almond milk with any plant-based milk of your choice.

→ How long can I store the rice pudding?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding?

While you can freeze it, the texture may change upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh!