CREAMY PROTEIN RICE PUDDING (3 WAYS)

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Creamy Protein Rice Pudding (3 ways) is made with vanilla protein powder, milk, a hint of cinnamon, vanilla, sweetener, and a trio of delicious topping options. You’ll want to make this healthy dessert (or breakfast) again and again. It is packed with protein to help you power through your day or recover after a tough workout.

P.S. I think you will love my yogurt cluster bites recipe next time!

Protein rice pudding with fresh strawberries.

It's protein time 💪

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PROTEIN RICE PUDDING

It’s flexible enough for anyone, including people who are into building muscle or those who prefer vegan or dairy-free options, make it with almond milk or coconut milk.

Whether prepping for tomorrow’s workout, treating yourself to a healthy dessert, or enjoying a cozy evening, this quick recipe covers you.

Protein rice pudding with strawberries and cream.

WANT TO TRY THESE DESSERTS NEXT TIME?

High protein pudding with berries and sprinkles. — **PROTEIN PUDDING**

A stack of pancakes sliced and showing the fluffy centre. — **PROTEIN PUDDING**

🍓 THREE TOPPING IDEAS

strawberries and cream (super comforting)
peanut butter and jelly (It’s like a PB&J sandwich)
Mango, yogurt, and honey (tropical vibes 🌴)

Protein rice pudding with mango and coconut.

❤️ HERE'S WHY YOU WILL LOVE PROTEIN RICE PUDDING

Creamy + With a Tender Bite

Easy One Pot Recipe

Simple Ingredients

Healthy + Customizable

Protein pudding with peanut butter and jelly.

🥄 INGREDIENTS NEEDED AND SUBSTITUTIONS

RICE:

Use white rice or even sushi rice for the best creamy texture in your pudding. You can also use brown rice, but keep in mind the texture will be slightly chewier and less smooth.

MILK:

Milk adds creaminess and richness to the pudding.

Substitution: Use almond, coconut, or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative.

MAPLE SYRUP:

Maple syrup serves as a sweetener.

Substitution: Replace with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free syrup for a lower-calorie option.

CINNAMON:

Cinnamon adds a warm, spicy sweetness to the pudding.

Substitution: Replace with nutmeg, ground ginger, or allspice for a similar warm spice profile, or omit for a milder taste.

VANILLA:

Vanilla brings a warm and sweet aromatic flavor.

Substitution: Use almond extract, or for a different twist.

VANILLA PROTEIN POWDER:

Vanilla protein powder adds a boost of protein.

Substitution: Replace with plain or flavored protein powder (like chocolate or caramel) or leave it out and increase the vanilla extract slightly.

SALT:

Use sea salt, kosher salt, or even a pinch of flaky salt.

Ingredient list for protein rice pudding.

👩🏼‍🍳 HOW TO MAKE PROTEIN RICE PUDDING (3 WAYS)

Note: Please scroll to the full printable recipe card at the bottom for ingredient quantities and the method.

Cook the Rice:
In a medium-sized pot, combine the rice, 2 ½ cups of milk, cinnamon, cardamom pod (optional) salt, and maple syrup. Bring it to a boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Simmer:
Once boiling, cover the pot with the lid slightly at an angle to prevent it from boiling over. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cooking time will vary depending on the type of rice: white rice takes about 10-15 minutes, while brown rice can take longer. Check on the rice occasionally and give it a stir to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Add Extra Creaminess:
Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the additional cup of milk and vanilla extract. Remove the cardamom pod. Continue to simmer for another 2-5 minutes until the pudding is creamy and rich.

Add the protein powder to the cooked rice.

Add Protein Powder:
Remove the pot from heat, stir in your scoop of vanilla protein powder, and mix well. If you want it sweeter, feel free to add more maple syrup or sweetener.

Absorb the Flavors:
Cover the pot with the lid again and let the pudding sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors fully. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk. If you like it thicker, you can let it sit longer.

Top It Off:
Now, it’s time to add your toppings! Choose from one of the three delicious options below, or get creative and make your own combo.

Sweeten to Taste: If you need a little more sweetness, go ahead and drizzle in some extra honey or maple syrup. Scoop into bowls.

3 Protein-Packed Topping Ideas

Now that you’ve got your creamy rice pudding base, it’s time to go wild with toppings. We’ve got three delicious variations that’ll take this pudding from breakfast to dessert, or even a post-workout snack.

1. Strawberries and Cream

Fresh strawberries, halved
A swirl of cream or dairy-free coconut cream
Extra vanilla protein powder (optional, mix it into the cream for extra protein!)

This classic combo is berry delicious. Top your rice pudding with a handful of juicy strawberries and a swirl of cream. Perfect for a sweet morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Strawberries and cream on protein rice pudding. — **STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM PROTEIN RICE PUDDING.**

2. Mango, Coconut & Yogurt

Fresh or frozen mango chunks
A dollop of Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or granola.

Tropical vibes, anyone? Creamy rice pudding topped with ripe mango, cool yogurt, and crunchy coconut flakes is like Thailand in a bowl. Use coconut yogurt if you’re going vegan for extra creaminess.

Mango and coconut rice pudding. — **MANGO AND COCONUT RICE PUDDING WITH PROTEIN.**

3. Peanut Butter & Jelly

A spoonful of peanut butter
A drizzle of your favorite jam or jelly
Crushed peanuts (for crunch!)

Peanut butter lovers, this one’s for you! Mix your PB into the pudding for a creamy, nutty flavor, then top it off with a spoonful of jelly. It’s like a PB&J sandwich.

Peanut butter and jelly protein rice pudding. — **PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY PROTEIN RICE PUDDING.**

📝 TIPS AND TRICKS

Dairy-Free Option: Sub out the whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk. You’ll still get that rich, creamy texture but with a tropical twist.

Chocolate Protein Rice Pudding: Use chocolate protein powder and 2 teaspoons of good quality cocoa powder to make chocolate rice pudding.

❓ FAQS

Can I make this with whey protein?

Absolutely! Whey protein blends in smoothly and enhances that creamy vanilla flavor. If you're opting for vegan protein, go for something like pea or rice protein.

What’s the best milk for a creamy texture?

For the ultimate creaminess, use full-fat milk. But semi-skimmed works wonders too.

Is rice pudding gluten-free?

Rice is gluten-free. Make sure that the protein powder is also gluten-free.

Can I make this with cooked rice?

I haven't tried it myself but please let me know in the comment below if you do.

MAKE-AHEAD, STORAGE AND REHEATING

MAKE-AHEAD

The best part about this Creamy Protein Rice Pudding is that it’s perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Rice pudding lasts 3 -4 days in the fridge. Just follow the recipe, let the pudding cool to room temperature, then portion it into individual containers.

STORAGE

Fridge: Store your rice pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 -4 days. If you’re adding fresh toppings like strawberries or mango, wait to add them just before serving to keep them fresh.

Freezer: Want to keep it longer? Freeze the rice pudding (without the toppings) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

REHEATING

Microwave: For a quick warm-up, pop your rice pudding in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk (or almond/coconut milk) if it looks too thick.

Stovetop: If you prefer to reheat on the stovetop, add a little milk to loosen it up, then warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through.

Did you make this recipe? Let me know what you think by leaving a ★★★★★ star rating & comment below. It genuinely helps me & I really appreciate your support! Nikki 💚