Easy Kheer Recipe: Creamy Indian Rice Pudding
Easy Kheer Recipe: Creamy Indian Rice Pudding There’s nothing quite like the comfort of creamy, slow-cooked kheer — especially when you want to end a meal on a sweet, soulful note. Kheer, or Indian rice pudding, isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition, warmth, and those little family moments we cherish. Whether it’s…
Easy Kheer Recipe: Creamy Indian Rice Pudding
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of creamy, slow-cooked kheer — especially when you want to end a meal on a sweet, soulful note. Kheer, or Indian rice pudding, isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition, warmth, and those little family moments we cherish. Whether it’s Diwali, Eid, a family get-together, or you’re simply craving something cozy, kheer is the answer.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the easiest way to make velvety, restaurant-style kheer at home, with all the secrets for rich flavor and that signature creamy texture. Scroll down for a foolproof, beginner-friendly recipe, ingredient swaps for kitchen emergencies, and pro tips to ensure your kheer is perfect every single time!
What is Kheer? A Cozy Dessert with Centuries of Tradition
Kheer (pronounced [keer]) is India’s answer to rice pudding. This beloved dish features slow-cooked rice, simmered gently in milk and sweetened with sugar, then finished with cardamom, nuts, and sometimes saffron. It’s a staple at Indian celebrations, but also the sort of treat grandmothers whip up at home.
Unlike other international rice puddings, kheer’s magic comes from using whole milk, fragrant spices, and a gentle, loving cook time. It’s naturally gluten-free, incredibly adaptable, and always crowd-pleasing.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Kheer Recipe
– **Ultra creamy:** We use a mix of full-fat milk and a hint of condensed milk for the richest texture.
– **Minimal ingredients:** Pantry staples, no fancy equipment needed.
– **Budget-friendly:** Made with rice, milk, and a handful of nuts.
– **Easily customizable:** Dairy-free, vegan, or sugar-free? I’ll share substitutions below.
– **Make-ahead dessert:** Perfect for parties or afternoon tea — kheer gets even silkier after a few hours in the fridge.
Kheer Ingredients: From Classic Staples to Clever Swaps
Here are the essential ingredients for traditional, creamy kheer — plus the swaps I recommend if you’re missing something.
| Ingredient | Role in Recipe | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati rice | Aromatic, holds shape | Short-grain rice, jasmine rice |
| Whole milk | Creamy base | Almond or oat milk (for vegan) |
| Sugar | Sweetener | Coconut sugar, stevia, condensed milk* |
| Cardamom | Fragrance, warmth | Vanilla extract, cinnamon |
| Almonds/pistachios | Crisp, nutty topping | Cashews, raisins, coconut flakes |
| Saffron (optional) | Color, aromatic | Skip or add a pinch of turmeric |
*If using condensed milk, reduce granulated sugar accordingly.
Creamy Kheer: Step-by-Step Cooking Tips
Let’s make sure your kheer turns out lush, not gloopy or runny. Here are some dos and don’ts for classic Indian rice pudding:
- Rinse the rice: Wash until the water runs clear to prevent stickiness.
- Slow cook is key: Let everything simmer on low. Stir often, so the milk doesn’t stick or burn.
- Don’t rush sugar: Add sugar after rice is nearly cooked. Adding it too early can make rice tough.
- Use heavy-bottomed cookware: Prevents scorching or sticking as the milk reduces.
- Add nuts last: For texture and color, sprinkle roasted nuts and saffron just before serving — or chill for an hour for firmer kheer.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
Kheer is endlessly adaptable, and you can make it suit any diet or taste:
– **Dairy-Free Kheer:** Swap whole milk with almond or coconut milk for a vegan version. It’s richer with a mix of both.
– **Sugar-Free Option:** Use stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol. Taste as you go!
– **Festive Add-Ins:** Rose water, dried fruit, or a touch of ghee are gorgeous additions.
– **Quick Rice Hack:** Got leftover cooked rice? Use 1.5 cups cooked rice for a 10-minute, shortcut pudding.
How to Serve Kheer
Kheer tastes amazing both warm and cold. For authentic flavor, finish with a dusting of cardamom powder, some toasted nuts, and maybe a few rose petals if you’re feeling fancy! It’s a lovely make-ahead dessert for holiday feasts — or even for a sweet breakfast.
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Kheer Nutrition: Healthy Indulgence
Kheer is indulgent but offers some surprising nutrition perks:
| Calories | Carbohydrates | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 220 kcal | 36g | 6g | 6g |
Per 1/2-cup serving. Nutrition may vary depending on substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Easy Creamy Kheer Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup basmati rice (uncooked)
- 4 cups full-fat milk (whole milk)
- 1/3 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (freshly ground if possible)
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds and/or pistachios
- 1 tablespoon golden raisins (optional)
- Pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rose water (optional, for fragrance)
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice in several changes of cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 10–15 minutes, then drain.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add the drained rice. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 30 minutes or until rice is soft and milk is noticeably thickened.
- Stir in the sugar and condensed milk (if using). Cook, stirring, until dissolved (about 5–7 minutes more).
- Add cardamom, half the nuts, raisins, and saffron if using. Cook for another 2–3 minutes. (Kheer should be creamy but pourable.)
- Turn off the heat. Stir in rose water if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly — kheer will thicken as it cools.
- Spoon into serving bowls. Garnish with remaining nuts and a few saffron strands. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled from the fridge!
Recipe Notes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
| Calories | Carbs | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 220 kcal | 36g | 6g | 6g |
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Ready to Make the Creamiest, Dreamiest Kheer?
If you give this easy kheer recipe a try, I’d love to see your creations! Please:
- Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for cozy, festive desserts.
- Share photos or this link with your cooking group or on WhatsApp.
- Leave a comment below — let’s celebrate your pudding success together!
There’s no better time to make homemade kheer — and once you do, it’ll become your go-to celebration dessert. Enjoy every creamy spoonful!
