Making chocolate pudding in a rice cooker using just rice and chocolate is a simple yet ingenious way to create a creamy, indulgent dessert with minimal ingredients.
The natural starches in the rice break down during cooking, creating a thick and velvety texture that mimics traditional pudding—without the need for cornstarch or eggs. By blending the cooked rice and chocolate with honey and almond milk (or any milk of choice), the mixture transforms into a smooth, rich treat with deep chocolate flavor and just the right amount of sweetness.
Served warm or chilled, this chocolate rice pudding is a comforting and satisfying dessert. Whether you’re looking for a naturally gluten-free treat or just a new way to use your rice cooker, this recipe is worth trying.
What Type of Rice to Use
Choosing the right type of rice can be confusing, especially with so many varieties available. Japanese short-grain or medium-grain rice is almost always my go-to choice. But for this dessert, any type of rice will do!
Short-grain rice, often labeled as sushi rice, is particularly prized for its soft and chewy texture. Medium-grain rice is a great alternative if short-grain isn’t available (I actually almost always use medium-grain myself because it’s generally cheaper where I live!).
Recommended Rice Cookers
Do I need to have a fancy rice cooker to make this meal? NO!
Just like anything, generally, the higher the quality, the better. But you can make my rice cooker meals in a cheap rice cooker, too!
Click the rice cooker photos to see my top picks, from $20–$200! I use the Tiger 5.5-cup model shown. About 1/2 cup of Japanese short- or medium-grain rice makes 1 serving.
While basmati rice is what’s traditional for this dish, you can also experiment with other types of rice.
Key Features to Look For in a Rice Cooker:
- Steaming Basket or Tray: Allows you to steam vegetables or cook other ingredients while the rice cooks.
- Multiple Cooking Functions: Ensure it has settings for steaming, slow cooking, and possibly even baking.
- Non-Stick Inner Pot: Makes cleaning easier and prevents sticking.
- Timer and Keep Warm Function: Useful for planning meals ahead of time and keeping them warm until you’re ready to eat.
5.5 cups or 10 cups
5.5 cups or 10 cups
3 cups
2 cups
Easy 4-Ingredient Chocolate Pudding in a Rice Cooker
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This creamy, rich chocolate pudding is made in a rice cooker using just rice, chocolate, honey, and almond milk, creating a naturally thick and indulgent treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (I used medium grain rice, although any rice should do)
- 1 bar of chocolate, about 3-5 oz. (any type of chocolate will do)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 3/4 cup milk (any type of milk will do)
- Optional garnishes: nuts, berries, chocolate shavings, cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Begin by washing your rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly and place it in the rice cooker. Add water as you normally would for the rice you are using.
- Place the chocolate bar directly on top of the rice and water. Cook on the standard setting until the rice is soft and fully cooked.
- When the rice is done cooking, transfer the chocolate-coated rice into a blender or food processor.
- Add the honey and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk as needed for desired consistency.
- Pour into bowls and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, optionally topped with nuts, fruit, or extra chocolate shavings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
What!? You can make pudding in a rice cooker. Excited to make this.
Yes! It’s so easy! Hope you love it 🙂
Didn’t expect the rice cooker to handle this so well — rich, glossy, and no lumps.
Hi Marissa! It is pretty wild how well it works. Thanks for sharing!