Do you love Hot Chocolate? Well then you are going to LOVE my Hot Chocolate Rice Pudding! It is THE most perfect chocolatey, quick & easy dessert that is bound to impress! BTW...you only need 6 ingredients!
This Hot Chocolate Rice Pudding takes the creamy comfort of classic rice pudding and gives it a rich, chocolatey twist perfect for the holidays—or any chilly day.
With its velvety texture and festive toppings, it’s the ultimate sweet treat to share with loved ones or to enjoy in all by yourself while watching a cozy Christmas Classic!
If you love chocolatey sweet treats, you are also going to LOVE my classic Hot Chocolate Recipe, Fudgy Oreo Brownies & my Single Serving Molten Lava Cake!
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Ingredients
- Rice
- Cocoa Powder
- Milk
- Butter
- Sugar
- Dark Chocolate
See recipe card for quantities! Scroll allll the way down!:)
Instructions
Combine all spices into a large bowl and mix thoroughly into lean ground beef
Form into ball shape with your hands
Press into patties on the tray
Place into oven at 350 fahrenheit
- Cook the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, cocoa powder, milk, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. - Simmer to Perfection:
Let the mixture cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender but still surrounded by a silky, chocolatey sauce. If the mixture gets too thick, stir in more milk to keep it creamy. - Add the Chocolate:
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the dark chocolate, remaining butter, and salt until the chocolate is fully melted and the pudding is luscious and smooth. - Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the pudding into bowls and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a festive finish. Serve warm and enjoy the ultimate comforting dessert!
Substitutions
- Rice: Use arborio rice for a creamier texture or quinoa for a protein-rich alternative.
- Cocoa Powder: Substitute with unsweetened chocolate powder or hot cocoa mix (reduce sugar to balance sweetness).
- Milk: Replace with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Butter: Swap with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for similar richness.
- Sugar: Use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Dark Chocolate: Substitute with milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a milder flavor.
Equipment
- Saucepan or Saucier
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Storage
Store leftover Hot Chocolate Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the pudding's consistency.
Top tips for success!
- Stir Often: Prevent sticking and ensure even cooking by stirring frequently, especially as the rice thickens.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep some liquid in the pudding for a creamy texture; add extra milk if needed during cooking.
- High-Quality Chocolate: Use good dark chocolate for a rich, indulgent flavor—it makes all the difference!
FAQs
Yes! While white rice works best for its creamy texture, you can use arborio rice for extra creaminess or brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.
Substitute milk with your favorite plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and use dairy-free butter and chocolate. The result will still be deliciously creamy and indulgent!
Absolutely! Make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk to bring back its smooth, saucy consistency.
Keeep scrolling below for the full recipe card!!:)
Related Desserts...
Looking for other dessert recipes like this? Try these:
Easy & Creamy Hot Chocolate Rice Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, cocoa powder, milk, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer to Perfection: Let the mixture cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender but still surrounded by a silky, chocolatey sauce. If the mixture gets too thick, stir in more milk to keep it creamy.
- Add the Chocolate: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the dark chocolate, remaining butter, and salt until the chocolate is fully melted and the pudding is luscious and smooth.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the pudding into bowls and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a festive finish. Serve warm and enjoy the ultimate comforting dessert!
Food safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
Anna says
do you cook the rice beforehand or just put it in uncooked?
Maja Ilic says
You put it in uncooked! Make sure to wash it though!
-Maja