Creamy & Healthy Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free & 21 Day Fix Approved
Unlock the nostalgic flavors of classic rice pudding with this revolutionary Healthy Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding recipe! It’s everything you loved about the creamy dessert from your childhood, but thoughtfully re-engineered to be entirely dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined-sugar-free. Plus, it’s proudly 21 Day Fix approved, making it a guilt-free pleasure you can enjoy anytime. This post contains affiliate links for products I am obsessed with, meaning if you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Confession: I almost didn’t share this recipe with you. After weeks of relentless testing, tweaking, and tasting, my inner perfectionist nearly convinced me to keep this creamy delight a secret. But after finally cracking the code to a truly “perfect” healthy brown rice pudding, I knew I had to share it. You see, I grew up with some seriously high standards for rice pudding. My Aunt Margie’s festive Christmas rice pudding and Grandma Helen’s unique, equally delicious version set the bar incredibly high. Crafting a healthier, Instant Pot-friendly, brown rice-based alternative that could stand up to those cherished memories was no small feat.
The Quest for the Perfect Healthy Brown Rice Pudding
The journey to this Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding was filled with delicious (and sometimes not-so-delicious) experiments. My primary goal was to create a recipe that was not only healthy and 21 Day Fix approved but also delivered that rich, creamy texture and comforting flavor we all adore. The main challenge? Using brown rice instead of white, keeping the sugar content low, and making it dairy-free – all while harnessing the power of the Instant Pot for convenience.
For weeks, my family and I embarked on a rigorous “rice pudding diet,” which, I must admit, wasn’t the worst job in the world! Through trial and error, I discovered the secret to achieving that luscious creaminess with brown rice: significantly increasing the liquid ratio during the initial cooking phase. Once that crucial detail was perfected, the rest of the recipe fell into place quite beautifully.
Why Brown Rice? A Healthier Foundation
Opting for brown rice in this pudding isn’t just a dietary choice; it’s a nutritional upgrade. Unlike white rice, brown rice is a whole grain, meaning it retains its bran and germ layers. These layers are packed with fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals like magnesium and selenium. The increased fiber content helps promote satiety, aids digestion, and can help regulate blood sugar levels, making this dessert a more wholesome choice that keeps you feeling satisfied longer. It contributes to the “healthy” aspect of this Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding, without compromising on taste or texture.
The Magic of the Instant Pot for Rice Pudding
The Instant Pot truly shines in this recipe. Its pressurized cooking environment not only drastically cuts down on cooking time but also helps tenderize the brown rice to a sublime, creamy consistency that would take much longer on the stovetop. It transforms what could be a lengthy process of simmering and stirring into a largely hands-off affair. Simply set it and forget it, and you’ll be rewarded with perfectly cooked, ready-to-be-transformed brown rice that forms the base of this amazing pudding.
Thoughtful Ingredient Choices for a Healthier Indulgence
Every ingredient in this healthy rice pudding recipe was carefully selected to maximize flavor and creaminess while adhering to a healthy, dietary-friendly profile. Here’s a closer look at the key players:
- Dairy-Free Creaminess with Coconut Cream: One of the biggest game-changers for making this recipe dairy-free and 21 Day Fix approved is the inclusion of canned coconut milk (specifically the thick, creamy part). I know what you might be thinking: “Will it taste like coconut?” And I promise you, it absolutely will not! Coconut cream is an incredible, rich substitute for heavy cream, adding a luxurious texture without any overt coconut flavor in this application. It’s a staple in many of my healthy, dairy-free recipes for my son, and it works wonders here.
- Natural Sweeteners: To keep this recipe refined-sugar-free, I opted for maple syrup. However, I’ve tested it with raw sugar and coconut sugar, and they both work beautifully, each imparting a slightly different depth of flavor. You have the flexibility to choose your favorite or even combine them to taste. I personally love the subtle caramel notes that raw sugar brings to the pudding.
- The Role of the Egg (Optional for Vegan): While this recipe calls for one beaten egg, primarily for traditional texture and richness, it is absolutely optional. If you’re vegan, have an egg allergy, or simply don’t have eggs on hand, you can confidently omit it. The pudding will still be incredibly delicious and creamy, thanks to the other ingredients and the cooking method. The egg just adds that extra layer of classic pudding indulgence.
- Flavor Boosters: A touch of cinnamon and vanilla extract are essential. Cinnamon adds a warm, inviting spice that pairs perfectly with rice, while vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors, giving the pudding a comforting aroma and taste.
Serving Suggestions & Customization
This Healthy Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding is incredibly versatile. It’s delicious served warm right out of the pot, or chilled for a refreshing treat. A simple sprinkle of extra cinnamon is always a winner, but don’t stop there! Get creative with your toppings:
- Dried Fruit: Raisins (a classic pairing!), chopped dates, or cranberries add natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a burst of freshness and color.
- Nuts: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans offer a delightful crunch and healthy fats.
- Nut Butters: A drizzle of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter turns this into a satisfying breakfast or a more substantial snack. Seriously, try it for breakfast with a dollop of peanut butter – it’s divine!
- Granola: For an extra layer of texture and a touch more sweetness.
Whether you enjoy it as a nutritious breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a wholesome dessert, this brown rice pudding is sure to become a new favorite in your home.
Quick Video Tutorial
Want to see just how easy this healthy Instant Pot brown rice pudding is to make? Watch this quick video to guide you through each step!
Frequently Asked Questions About This Healthy Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding
Can Rice Pudding Be Made in the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! The Instant Pot is a fantastic tool for making rice pudding. Unlike traditional stovetop methods, which require constant stirring, the Instant Pot allows for a mostly hands-off approach. The key to achieving that perfect creamy consistency with brown rice in the Instant Pot is adjusting the liquid ratio and cook time. While I typically use a 1:1 ratio for cooking plain rice, for this pudding, I triple the amount of liquid and cook the rice longer. You can use either the “Porridge” button or the “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) setting on your Instant Pot for best results.
Is this Instant Pot Rice Pudding recipe truly healthy?
Yes, this recipe is designed to be incredibly healthy! We’ve made several conscious choices to elevate its nutritional profile:
- Brown Rice Base: Swapping white rice for fiber-rich brown rice adds essential nutrients and promotes better digestion.
- Reduced & Refined-Sugar-Free: We significantly reduce the overall sugar content and replace refined sugars with natural alternatives like maple syrup, coconut sugar, or raw sugar.
- Dairy-Free: Heavy cream is replaced with nourishing coconut cream, making it suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or following a vegan diet.
This combination of ingredients makes it not just a healthier alternative, but a truly wholesome dessert or breakfast option. And the best part? For those following the 21 Day Fix program, this recipe isn’t even considered a “treat swap” – it’s that clean!
Does Brown Rice Pudding taste good?
It tastes wonderful! I understand some might be skeptical about brown rice in a pudding, especially if they’re used to traditional white rice versions. However, the rich, nutty flavor of brown rice, combined with the creamy texture achieved in the Instant Pot and the warm spices, creates a truly comforting and delicious experience. As someone who grew up with fantastic homemade rice pudding, I wouldn’t put my name on this recipe if it didn’t live up to those high standards. It offers a depth of flavor that many find even more satisfying than its white rice counterpart.
Can I make this healthy rice pudding without eggs?
Yes, absolutely! The egg in this recipe primarily adds a touch more richness and a traditional custard-like quality. However, if you’re following a vegan diet, have an egg allergy, or simply don’t have eggs available, you can easily omit it without compromising the overall deliciousness or creaminess of the pudding. The combination of coconut milk, almond milk, and the cooking method ensures a lovely texture even without the egg.
I see you use coconut milk in this Instant Pot Rice Pudding, does the pudding taste like coconut?
No, not at all! This is a common concern, and I can assure you that the coconut milk (specifically the thick, creamy part from a can) adds incredible richness and creaminess without imparting a distinct coconut flavor. I’m a huge advocate for using coconut cream as a dairy-free and cleaner substitute for heavy cream in both sweet and savory dishes, precisely because it blends so seamlessly into recipes without overpowering other flavors. You’ll simply get a wonderfully creamy pudding, not a tropical one!
How do I store leftover Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding?
Store any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes great both cold and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If reheating, you might want to add a splash of almond milk to restore its creaminess.
Can I prepare this pudding ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes, this healthy brown rice pudding is an excellent option for meal prep! Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out into individual containers. It makes for a quick and satisfying breakfast or snack on busy mornings. Simply grab and go, adding your favorite fresh toppings when ready to eat.
Looking for more 21 Day Fix Approved Healthy Dessert Recipes?
If you love the idea of wholesome, satisfying desserts that fit your healthy lifestyle, especially those that aren’t “treat swaps” on the 21 Day Fix, then you’re in luck! Here are some other delicious, healthy dessert recipes you might enjoy:
- 21 Day Fix Easy Chocolate Macaroons (Allergy Friendly)
- 21 Day Fix Instant Pot Apple Crisp (Gluten & Dairy Free)
- Healthy Lemon Bars | My Crazy Good Life
- Pumpkin Pudding | The Foodie and The Fix
- Baked Apples | Carrie Elle
Healthy Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- Salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- 1/4 cup canned coconut milk use the thick, creamy part of the milk
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon plus more for topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, vegan butter, or ghee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg beaten well (optional for vegan)
- 4 tablespoons maple syrup, coconut sugar, raw sugar, or any combination of these can add more to taste. I love it most with raw sugar.
- Optional topping ideas – Dried fruit, berries, nuts, nut butter
Instructions
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Place 1 cup of brown rice in your Instant pot, along with water and almond milk, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of Himalayan or sea salt. Lock lid and set to manual or porridge for 25 minutes. After cook time, do a natural release.
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Once it’s safe to unlock your IP, remove lid and stir rice. Set pot to saute and stir in canned coconut milk, sweetener, butter, and cinnamon.
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Slowly whisk in the beaten egg (if using), stirring continuously until all of the egg is added and pudding further thickens. Remove inner pot from heat immediately and allow pudding to cool a bit before serving.
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Serve warm or cold with a sprinkle of cinnamon and your favorite toppings. So yummy for breakfast with a drizzle of peanut butter (just sayin).
Video
Notes
WW: 6 points (per serving) [Calculated using maple syrup and without optional toppings]
Nutrition