Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a comforting yet delightfully unique dessert, I have just the thing for you: a Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe that’s as soothing as it is vibrant. This creamy, subtly green pudding blends the earthy flavor of matcha with the rich texture of arborio rice, making it a fan-freaking-tastic treat you’ll want to whip up again and again. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll discover why it’s quickly become a favorite in my kitchen!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe come together like a dream, with arborio rice lending creaminess that’s perfect for pudding, and matcha powder bringing that gorgeous green color and unique taste. I always recommend using good-quality matcha for the best flavor—you’ll notice the difference immediately!

• Arborio Rice: This short-grain rice cooks up creamy and soft, ideal for puddings.
• Water: Helps start the rice cooking process before adding milk.
• Milk of Choice: Dairy or plant-based milks both work; whole milk gives extra richness.
• White Sugar: Adds the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the matcha.
• Matcha Powder: Use good-quality ceremonial or culinary grade for best taste and color.
• Butter (Softened): Adds richness and a silky texture to the pudding.
• Vanilla Essence: Rounds out the flavors and balances the earthiness of matcha.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gives the pudding a luscious sweetness and creamy body.
• Pinch of Salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness.
• White Chocolate Chips (Optional): For little pockets of sweetness that melt into the pudding beautifully.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you want to make it vegan, add extra flavors, or switch up the texture, there’s lots of room to personalize.

• Vegan Matcha Rice Pudding: I often make this with coconut milk and vegan butter to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Less Sweet Version: My kids prefer it milder, so I cut the sugar and balance with more vanilla.
• Nutty Addition: I sometimes sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds on top for crunch.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a splash of citrus zest or a dollop of sweet red bean paste for a Japanese dessert vibe.

How to Make Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients in a Saucepan

Start by adding the arborio rice, water, milk, sugar, matcha powder, softened butter, vanilla essence, sweetened condensed milk, and a pinch of salt to a medium-sized saucepan. I love how everything comes together in one pot here—that means less cleanup and full flavor integration. Give it a gentle stir to loosely combine.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil Over Medium-High Heat

Place your saucepan on the stove over medium to high heat. Stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking to the bottom. When it reaches a boil, you’ll see the mixture start bubbling and releasing a cozy aroma—the matcha notes are subtle but unmistakable.

Step 3: Reduce to a Simmer and Cook Gently

Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. This is the magic phase where the rice soaks up all those flavors and softens beautifully. Keep stirring every few minutes, so nothing sticks or burns. It usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened to that perfect creamy consistency.

Step 4: Stir in the White Chocolate Chips (Optional) and Cool

After turning off the heat, gently fold in the white chocolate chips if you’re using them. They melt slightly, creating sweet bursts throughout the pudding. I like to let it cool a bit before diving in, but it’s also fantastic warm or chilled. Refrigerate for an hour or more if you prefer it cold—it really transforms into a refreshing treat that way.

How to Serve Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a little extra matcha powder on top for a pop of green and added earthiness, but chopped pistachios or toasted coconut flakes also add wonderful texture. Sometimes I drizzle a bit of honey or matcha-infused syrup if I want to up the sweetness. These little touches make it look so pretty and inviting.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs beautifully with fresh berries or slices of stone fruit when in season. If I’m serving it as part of a tea spread, I love offering light green tea or jasmine tea alongside—it complements the flavors perfectly and keeps the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to present the Matcha Rice Pudding in clear glass jars or elegant bowls, layered with a swirl of whipped cream or coconut cream on top. Adding a small edible flower or a few matcha-dusted almond slivers always makes it feel that much more special. Guests are always impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and the pudding keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld! Just give it a good stir before serving to bring back its creamy texture.

Freezing

While I rarely freeze this rice pudding because I like it fresh, you absolutely can. Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. The texture changes slightly but warming gently on the stove can help bring it back.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your rice pudding into a saucepan on low heat and stir steadily. Adding a splash of milk or cream while warming helps loosen it up if it’s thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent dryness—gentle stovetop heating is my go-to.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Matcha Rice Pudding Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines traditional comfort food with an elegant twist. Every time I make it, the lovely green hue and delicate matcha flavor surprise and delight my family — and I know you’ll love serving it at your table, whether for a cozy night in or a special gathering. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be coming back to it over and over again!

Print