Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding

Name: Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups coconut milk; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Chef | Easy Steps

I absolutely love making Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding because it’s a delightful way to welcome the vibrant flavors of summer. The creamy coconut milk complements the sweet, juicy strawberries perfectly, creating a comforting yet refreshing dessert. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and when I serve it, the combination of textures and flavors never fails to impress. Whether it's for a casual get-together or a special occasion, this pudding truly captures the essence of warm, sunny days. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked!

Created by

The Chefkarlcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T19:30:28.300Z

When I first tried making Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and straightforward the process was. Using Arborio rice not only adds creaminess but also enhances the overall texture, making each spoonful comforting and indulgent. I also discovered that allowing the pudding to chill for at least an hour really brings out the flavors, as the coconut melds beautifully with the sweet strawberries.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to use fresh strawberries when they’re in season for the best flavor. I also like to reserve a few slices for garnish right before serving; it adds a pop of color and makes the dessert look even more inviting. It’s a combination of small techniques that leads to a truly delightful dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Creamy texture with hints of coconut and fresh strawberries
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfect for warm weather and summertime gatherings

Understanding Rice Selection

Using Arborio rice is key to achieving the creamy texture of this Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding. Arborio rice has a high starch content, which releases during cooking, giving the pudding a rich, velvety consistency. You could use other types of short-grain rice, like sushi rice, for a similar effect, but avoid long-grain varieties as they won't yield the same creaminess.

Make sure to rinse your Arborio rice under cold water before cooking. This step removes any excess starch on the surface, which can lead to clumping and uneven cooking. Rinsing helps maintain the rice's individual grains while still allowing for that perfect pudding texture.

Enhancing Flavors and Textures

The choice of coconut milk plays a crucial role in the overall flavor profile. For a lighter pudding, you can opt for light coconut milk, although this may alter the richness. If you prefer a more intense coconut flavor, try using full-fat coconut milk. You can also experiment with adding a splash of coconut extract for an extra boost if you desire.

When incorporating strawberries, timing matters. Adding the strawberries while the pudding is still warm allows them to soften slightly, melding their sweetness into the pudding. However, if you prefer the strawberries to retain a bit more texture and freshness, you might wait until the pudding has cooled before gently folding them in.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups coconut milk
2 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making this delicious pudding!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, coconut milk, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to low and cover, allowing the mixture to cook for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the pudding thickens.

Add Strawberries

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the sliced strawberries, reserving some for garnish. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Chill and Serve

Transfer the pudding into serving bowls or a large dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with extra strawberries and mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Coconut Strawberry Rice Pudding!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling honey or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pudding is an excellent choice for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator overnight. Just ensure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors from your fridge. Before serving, give it a good stir and taste to see if it needs a touch more sweetness.

If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pudding can typically last for up to three days. Just be aware that the rice will continue to absorb moisture, which might affect the texture. To revive it, you can stir in a bit more coconut milk or regular milk when serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation, consider serving the pudding in individual cups or jars. This not only makes for a beautiful display but also allows guests to easily grab their serving. Top each portion with a sprig of fresh mint and a beautiful slice of strawberry for a pop of color and added freshness.

For a bit of added texture, consider drizzling toasted coconut flakes over the top just before serving. This contrast between the creamy pudding and crunchy coconut will provide a delightful tasting experience with every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Ripe mangoes or sautéed peaches make for delicious alternatives.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, use only coconut milk and a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or soy milk.

→ Can I make this pudding vegan?

Yes, the recipe is vegan-friendly as is, as long as you use a suitable sugar.