Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table, then you’re in for a treat with Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to whip up. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you need something sweet without the fuss. The combination of warm rice, sweet pineapple, and creamy coconut creates a light and refreshing dish that feels like a mini-vacation in every bite.

What makes this Hawaiian Rice Pudding so special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a comforting dessert after dinner or serve it at parties as a unique treat. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use leftover rice! I can almost smell the tropical aromas wafting through the kitchen as you prepare this delightful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dessert that will impress your family and friends.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet flavors and creamy texture, making it an instant hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this dish in advance and chill it until you’re ready to serve—perfect for busy schedules!
• Tropical Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple and coconut gives this pudding an exotic twist that transports your taste buds straight to Hawaii.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hawaiian Rice Pudding is made from simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Pudding

• 2 cups cooked rice (warm)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• One 8 oz. can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1/3 cup shredded coconut
• 8 oz. whipped topping (thawed)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Tropical Twist: Mix in diced mango or banana for added sweetness and texture.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped nuts like macadamia or almonds for some crunch.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whipped topping with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}

Step 1: Combine Rice and Sugar

In a large bowl, stir together the warm rice and brown sugar. This step is important because mixing them while the rice is warm helps dissolve the sugar quickly, ensuring every bite of pudding is sweet!

Step 2: Add Pineapple

Once the brown sugar has melted into the rice, add the crushed pineapple along with its juice. Stir everything together until combined. The juicy pineapple adds moisture and vibrant flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Step 3: Chill Your Mixture

Next, cover your bowl and chill the pineapple rice mixture in the refrigerator. This cooling step allows all those delicious flavors to meld together while giving it a refreshing texture.

Step 4: Fold in Coconut and Whipped Topping

Just before serving, gently fold in the shredded coconut and thawed whipped topping. This adds creaminess and richness to your pudding while keeping it light and fluffy—exactly what we want!

And there you have it! A wonderfully easy dessert that’s sure to become one of your favorites. Enjoy every spoonful of your Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}, whether it’s after dinner or as a delightful treat any time of day!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}

Making this delightful dessert is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure your Hawaiian Rice Pudding turns out perfectly every time!

• Use warm rice: Starting with warm rice helps the brown sugar dissolve more easily, ensuring a smooth and sweet base for your pudding.
• Chill for flavor: Allowing the mixture to chill not only enhances the flavors but also gives the pudding a creamy texture that is incredibly satisfying.
• Fold gently: When folding in the coconut and whipped topping, use a gentle hand. This preserves the lightness of the whipped topping and keeps your pudding airy.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite fruits or nuts on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that can make each bite unique!
• Make it in advance: Preparing this pudding a few hours ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.

How to Serve Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}

Serving Hawaiian Rice Pudding can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this dish and impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Toasted coconut flakes: A sprinkle of toasted coconut adds a crunchy texture and enhances the tropical flavor.
• Fresh fruit slices: Slices of kiwi, strawberries, or mango can brighten up the dish and introduce fresh acidity to balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Tropical fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will complement the richness of the rice pudding, adding brightness and color to your meal.
• Grilled chicken skewers: These savory bites provide a nice contrast to the sweet dessert, making for a balanced dining experience.
• Crispy vegetable spring rolls: Their crunchiness and savory filling will create an exciting textural contrast alongside the creamy pudding.
• Coconut curry soup: This warm, aromatic soup makes a flavorful pairing that highlights tropical ingredients while satisfying any savory cravings.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you can turn your Hawaiian Rice Pudding into an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy creating this delightful dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian} is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how you can store it effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to stir gently before serving again to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezing

• If you want to keep it longer, scoop portions into freezer-safe containers.
• Label them with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, ensure they are well-sealed.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Gently reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through.
• You can add a splash of coconut milk or almond milk to restore creaminess if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert!

What is Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian}?

Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian} is a tropical twist on traditional rice pudding, combining warm rice with crushed pineapple, brown sugar, shredded coconut, and whipped topping for a creamy dessert that transports your taste buds!

Can I make Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian} without whipped topping?

Yes! You can substitute whipped topping with coconut cream for a dairy-free option or use a blend of yogurt and almond milk for a lighter version while still enjoying that creamy consistency.

How long does Hawaiian Rice Pudding stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Hawaiian Rice Pudding stays fresh for about 3 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Hawaiian Rice Pudding {aka Rice Hawaiian} as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re prepping for busy weeknights or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients and let the tropical flavors whisk you away—happy cooking!