Rice Kheer Recipe: A Creamy, Traditional Indian Rice Pudding Dessert
Slow-simmered milk thickened to creamy perfection, fragrant cardamom infusing every spoonful, and soft rice grains melting gently into sweetness—Rice Kheer Recipe stands as one of the most cherished desserts in Indian cuisine. Often prepared during festivals, celebrations, and family gatherings, this comforting sweet dish carries both tradition and nostalgia in every bite.
Across Indian households, Rice Kheer is more than just a dessert; it represents warmth, celebration, and togetherness. Whether served at Diwali, Eid, weddings, or simple Sunday meals, its rich aroma fills the kitchen and instantly creates a sense of joy. The combination of milk, rice, sugar, and nuts creates a dessert that is simple in ingredients yet luxurious in taste.
What makes Rice Kheer truly special is its slow cooking process, where patience transforms everyday ingredients into a silky, aromatic pudding. Each spoon delivers a balance of creaminess, sweetness, and subtle spice from cardamom, making it a timeless favorite across generations.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati rice | ½ cup | 340 kcal |
| Full cream milk | 1 liter | 610 kcal |
| Sugar | ½ cup | 385 kcal |
| Cardamom powder | 1 tsp | 6 kcal |
| Cashew nuts | 2 tbsp | 170 kcal |
| Almonds (sliced) | 2 tbsp | 160 kcal |
| Raisins | 2 tbsp | 85 kcal |
| Saffron strands (optional) | Few strands | 5 kcal |
| Ghee (for roasting nuts) | 1 tbsp | 120 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Wash and Soak the Rice
Rinse basmati rice thoroughly under running water. Soak it for 20–30 minutes to soften grains and ensure even cooking.
2. Boil the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring full cream milk to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Rice in Milk
Add soaked rice to the boiling milk. Reduce heat and simmer slowly, stirring frequently to avoid burning at the bottom.
4. Add Sweetness and Flavor
Once rice becomes soft and milk thickens, add sugar and cardamom powder. Stir well until sugar dissolves completely.
5. Prepare Nuts and Dry Fruits
In a small pan, heat ghee and lightly roast cashews, almonds, and raisins until golden and aromatic.
6. Combine Everything
Add roasted nuts and saffron strands to the kheer. Mix gently and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
7. Final Simmer
Cook until desired consistency is reached—thick and creamy or slightly runny based on preference.
8. Serve
Allow the kheer to cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Replace sugar with jaggery for a richer, earthy flavor
- Use condensed milk for extra creaminess and sweetness
- Add coconut milk for a South Indian twist
- Include pistachios for enhanced texture and color
- Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience
- Add rose water for a floral aroma variation
- Adjust thickness by controlling milk reduction time
Nutritional Information
Rice Kheer is a rich and energy-dense dessert.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310–320 |
| Carbohydrates | 45–50g |
| Protein | 7–9g |
| Fat | 12–15g |
| Sugar | High (based on added quantity) |
| Calcium | High (from milk) |
| Iron & Magnesium | Moderate (from nuts and rice) |
While indulgent, it also provides calcium, healthy fats, and energy, making it suitable for festive consumption in moderation.
Serving Suggestions
Rice Kheer pairs beautifully with a variety of occasions and accompaniments:
- Serve warm during winter for comfort
- Chill and serve during summer for a refreshing dessert
- Garnish with extra nuts and saffron strands
- Pair with Indian festive meals like biryani or pulao
- Serve in small clay bowls for traditional presentation
- Add a drizzle of honey or rose syrup for extra flavor
Rice Kheer Recipe: A Creamy, Traditional Indian Rice Pudding Dessert
6
servings10
minutes50
minutes310-320
kcalIngredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| ————————– | ———– |
| Basmati rice | ½ cup |
| Full cream milk | 1 liter |
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Cardamom powder | 1 tsp |
| Cashew nuts | 2 tbsp |
| Almonds (sliced) | 2 tbsp |
| Raisins | 2 tbsp |
| Ghee (for roasting nuts) | 1 tbsp |
| Saffron strands (optional) | Few strands |
Directions
- Wash and soak rice for 20–30 minutes.
- Boil milk in a heavy pan on medium heat.
- Add soaked rice and simmer on low heat.
- Stir frequently until rice becomes soft and milk thickens.
- Add sugar and cardamom powder, mix well.
- Roast nuts and raisins in ghee separately.
- Add roasted nuts and saffron to the kheer.
- Simmer for a few more minutes until creamy.
- Serve warm or chilled as desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Always use full cream milk for a rich, creamy, and authentic texture.
Soaking the rice for 20–30 minutes helps it cook faster and become softer in the kheer.
Stir frequently while cooking to prevent the milk and rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
FAQs
1. What is Rice Kheer?
Rice Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert made by slowly cooking rice in milk, sugar, and cardamom, often enriched with nuts and dry fruits.
2. Which type of rice is best for kheer?
Basmati rice is most commonly used because it becomes soft, aromatic, and blends well with milk for a creamy texture.
3. Can I make Rice Kheer without sugar?
Yes, sugar can be replaced with jaggery, honey, or natural sweeteners like dates for a healthier version.
4. How long does Rice Kheer take to cook?
It usually takes 40–60 minutes, depending on the desired thickness and how slow the milk is reduced.
5. Can I use low-fat milk instead of full cream milk?
Yes, but full cream milk gives a richer, creamier texture, while low-fat milk results in a lighter version.
Conclusion
Rice Kheer remains one of the most beloved traditional desserts in Indian cuisine, offering a perfect blend of simplicity, richness, and cultural heritage. Its slow-cooked creaminess, aromatic spices, and nutty crunch create a dessert that feels both comforting and celebratory.
