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

1. Rinse the basmati rice in several changes of cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 10–15 minutes, then drain.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
3. 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.
4. Stir in the sugar and condensed milk (if using). Cook, stirring, until dissolved (about 5–7 minutes more).
5. Add cardamom, half the nuts, raisins, and saffron if using. Cook for another 2–3 minutes. (Kheer should be creamy but pourable.)
6. Turn off the heat. Stir in rose water if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly — kheer will thicken as it cools.
7. 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!