Slow Cooker Creamy 3-Ingredient Rice Pudding: The Easiest, Coziest Dessert You’ll Make All Winter

• Uncooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine works best)—about ½ cup
• Sweetened condensed milk—1 (14 oz) can (the magic ingredient that adds richness, sweetness, and creaminess without eggs!)
• Milk—2 cups (whole milk for ultra-creamy results, or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version)

 No Stirring. No Watching. No Stress.

Unlike stovetop versions that require constant attention to prevent scorching, the slow cooker’s gentle, even heat infuses the rice with creamy goodness while you live your life.

 Budget-Friendly & Pantry-Friendly

Total cost per serving: under $0.75. And since the ingredients keep for months, you can make this anytime the craving strikes.

 Nostalgia Meets Modern Convenience

This recipe honors the old-world simplicity of Depression-era desserts—where families turned humble rice and milk into something special—while using the ultimate modern shortcut: your Crock-Pot.

How to Make Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Rice Pudding

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• ½ cup uncooked long-grain white rice (do not use instant or quick-cook rice)
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups whole milk (or unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
• Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, or ¼ cup raisins (add at the end)

 Instructions

1. Grease your slow cooker lightly with butter or non-stick spray (prevents sticking).
2. Add rice, sweetened condensed milk, milk, and a pinch of salt to the slow cooker.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours (or on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours).
   → Do not lift the lid early! Trapped steam is essential for perfect texture.
5. Check consistency: The pudding should be thick, creamy, and the rice fully tender.
6. Stir in vanilla or cinnamon (if using).
7. Serve warm, or chill for 2+ hours for a firmer, classic texture.

5 Delicious Ways to Customize Your Rice Pudding

This simple base is a canvas for creativity:

1. Dairy-Free Dream: Use coconut milk + condensed coconut milk for a tropical twist.
2. Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder after cooking.
3. Breakfast Pudding: Top with fresh berries, sliced banana, or a sprinkle of granola.
4. Holiday Spice: Add a cinnamon stick while cooking, then remove before serving.
5. Decadent Finish: Drizzle with caramel, sprinkle with toasted coconut, or add a dollop of whipped cream.

• Warm: Creamiest texture, perfect with a sprinkle of cinnamon—ideal for cold winter nights.
• Chilled: Firmer, more traditional—great for make-ahead desserts or summer evenings.
• Room temp: A happy middle ground, especially for potlucks or holiday buffets.

Why Rice Pudding Belongs in Every Home Cook’s Repertoire

As someone who values simple, high-quality meals and desserts that feed both body and soul, you’ll love how this recipe:

• Takes 5 minutes to prep
• Uses no eggs, no flour, no fuss
• Feels special enough for guests, yet humble enough for a Tuesday night
• Brings comfort to teens and adults alike—especially on stressful days

And if your family is anything like ours, they’ll start requesting it by name—just like mashed potatoes!

Final Thought: Dessert Should Be Simple, Not Stressful

In a world of complicated desserts and 20-ingredient recipes, this 3-ingredient rice pudding is a gentle reminder that true comfort lies in simplicity. It’s proof that with just a few good ingredients and a little patience, you can create something deeply nourishing—without ever turning on your oven.

So plug in that slow cooker, stir once, and let time do the rest. Your reward? A bowl of creamy, dreamy, soul-soothing sweetness—with only one dish to wash.

Love easy slow cooker desserts? Try our Slow Cooker Peach Cobbler, 3-Ingredient Applesauce, or Creamy Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake next!