Originally posted on 9 October 2023 @ 14:31

Can You Make Rice Pudding in an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have become an increasingly popular kitchen appliance in recent years, allowing you to make fried foods with less oil. But can you use an air fryer to make creamy rice pudding? The short answer is yes – with a few modifications, you can make delicious rice pudding in an air fryer.

Rice pudding is a classic comfort food dessert made by cooking rice in milk until thick and creamy, often flavored with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Traditional rice pudding recipes call for cooking the rice slowly on the stovetop or baking it in the oven. But using an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make rice pudding without heating up your kitchen.

The key to making rice pudding in an air fryer is to use the right ratio of ingredients and keep a close eye on it as it cooks. Here is a simple air fryer rice pudding recipe to try:

Ingredients:

• 1⁄2 cup uncooked short-grain white rice
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1⁄8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1⁄4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

Rinse the rice well and drain. Place the rice and milk in a round baking dish that fits in your air fryer basket. Stir well.

Sprinkle the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the top and stir again. Add the raisins if desired.

Place the baking dish in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 300°F and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.

After 25 minutes, begin checking the pudding for doneness every 2-3 minutes. The rice should be fully cooked and the milk absorbed, leaving a creamy texture.

Once done, remove it from the air fryer. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls and enjoy!

The cooking time can vary depending on the size of your air fryer and type of rice used. White rice will cook faster than brown rice. You may need to cook brown rice pudding for 30-40 minutes, checking often after 25 minutes.

Tips for Making Rice Pudding in an Air Fryer

Use a shallow, oven-safe baking dish that fits in your air fryer basket. This allows for faster, more even cooking.

• Give the rice and milk mixture a good stir every 5 minutes while cooking. This helps prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
• For creamier results, use short-grain rice like Arborio rice or rice made specifically for rice pudding. Long-grain rice can work but may not get as thick.
• Add a pinch of salt to boost the flavor. Vanilla extract, lemon zest, or other spices like cardamom also pair well.
• Leftover rice works great for quick rice pudding. Just use 2 cups cooked rice with 2 cups milk and bake until heated through and creamy.
• Let the pudding cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. It will thicken up more as it cools. Garnish with extra cinnamon, raisins, or your favorite toppings.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute full-fat coconut milk for the regular milk. Increase cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

FAQs 

Can you make rice pudding in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make rice pudding in an air fryer.

How do I cook rice pudding in an air fryer?

To cook rice pudding in an air fryer, you will need to follow a simple recipe. Mix rice, milk, sugar, and any additional ingredients in an air fryer-safe dish. Cook at a specified temperature and time, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and the pudding has thickened.

What is the cooking time for rice pudding in an air fryer?

The cooking time for rice pudding in an air fryer can vary depending on the recipe and the specific air fryer model. However, it generally takes around 30-40 minutes to cook rice pudding in an air fryer.

Can I use a Ninja air fryer to make rice pudding?

Yes, you can use a Ninja air fryer to make rice pudding. The cooking process would be similar to any other air fryer.

What are some other air fryer recipes for rice pudding?

Some other air fryer recipes for rice pudding include using almond milk, adding rum for flavor, or adding a pinch of cinnamon for a twist on the classic dessert.

How do I cook rice for rice pudding in an air fryer?

To cook rice for rice pudding in an air fryer, rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Then, add the rice to the air fryer with the appropriate amount of water and cook according to the recipe.

Can I use condensed milk in an air fryer rice pudding?

Yes, you can use condensed milk in an air fryer rice pudding. It adds a rich and creamy flavor to the pudding.

Can I bake rice pudding in an air fryer?

No, you cannot bake rice pudding in an air fryer. Baking requires a different cooking method and temperature than air frying.

Is it easy to rustle up rice pudding in an air fryer?

Yes, it is easy to rustle up rice pudding in an air fryer. With minimal effort required, you can enjoy this take on a classic dessert in no time.

How can I explore more rice pudding recipes for my air fryer?

You can explore more rice pudding recipes for your air fryer by searching on Pinterest or other cooking websites. There are many creative and delicious variations to try.

The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Rice Pudding

While rice pudding is traditionally cooked on the stovetop or in the oven, using an air fryer has some advantages:

• It’s faster – Rice pudding bakes up quickly in an air fryer, ready in 25-40 minutes versus over an hour baking in the oven.
• Adds convenience – Simply throw the ingredients in the fryer basket and walk away. No need to constantly stir and monitor the stovetop.
• Cooks evenly – The circulating hot air prevents scorching and allows even cooking.
• Uses less energy – Air fryers require less electricity to run than an oven.
• Doesn’t heat up the kitchen – Since it’s smaller, an air fryer adds less ambient heat than the oven. Perfect for hot summer days.
• Easy cleanup – With only the baking dish to wash, cleanup is minimal. No stovetop splatters to deal with.

So don’t be afraid to try your hand at rice pudding in the air fryer! With a simple recipe and a few tips, you can make this classic comfort food with ease. The air fryer allows you to enjoy homemade rice pudding any night of the week with little effort required.

Conclusion

Rice pudding is a versatile dessert that’s easy to make in an air fryer. With the right ratio of rice to milk and frequent stirring, you can whip up creamy, cinnamon-spiced rice pudding with no fuss. The air fryer’s circulating hot air cooks the rice evenly in under half an hour for a quick weeknight treat.

Top your air-fried rice pudding simply with milk and spices, or get creative with mix-ins like fresh fruit, nuts, honey, or sauces. This classic comfort food dessert takes on new convenience thanks to the air fryer – all while avoiding the hassle and heat of the stovetop or oven.