DessertsEasyFlare-FriendlyGluten-Free

Vanilla Rice Pudding

Creamy vanilla rice pudding with zero fiber per serving. With lactose-free milk and gentle honey sweetness, this is one of the safest comfort desserts when your gut needs a break.

Vanilla Rice Pudding
Total Time
40m
Servings
6
Calories
185
Fiber
0g
Protein
5g
Carbs
32g
Fat
4g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Active FlareRecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

cinnamonmild

May irritate sensitive mouths or esophagus during active flares

Tip: Omit entirely—the pudding is delicious with just vanilla.

lactose-free milkmild

Some with dairy protein sensitivity (not lactose intolerance) may still react

Tip: Substitute with full-fat canned coconut milk for a completely dairy-free version.

honeymild

Contains excess fructose which can trigger symptoms in some with fructose malabsorption

Tip: Reduce to 1/4 cup or substitute with maple syrup (note: maple syrup is SCD-illegal).

Ingredients

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Combine rice and water in a medium saucepan over high heat.

    Equipment: medium saucepan
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.

    Tip: Do not lift the lid while simmering—trapped steam is essential for properly cooked rice
  3. Add lactose-free milk, honey, vanilla, and salt to the cooked rice. Stir well to combine.

  4. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

  5. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. The rice should be completely tender.

    Tip: Stir frequently in the last 10 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in butter if using—it adds richness and a silky finish.

  7. Sprinkle with cinnamon just before serving, or omit if you're sensitive to spices.

  8. Serve warm for maximum comfort, or refrigerate for at least 2 hours and serve chilled.

    Tip: Pudding continues to thicken as it cools. Add a splash of lactose-free milk when reheating to restore creamy texture.

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The pudding thickens significantly when cold—thin with a splash of warm lactose-free milk when reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Rice type

Short-grain or medium-grain white rice (like arborio or sushi rice) releases more starch, creating a creamier texture. Long-grain rice works but produces a less velvety pudding.

Dairy-free option

Replace lactose-free milk with full-fat canned coconut milk for an equally creamy, completely dairy-free version. Coconut milk is well-tolerated by most with IBD and adds healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).

Sweetness adjustment

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce honey to 1/4 cup. Maple syrup works as an alternative but is SCD-illegal if you're following that protocol.

Consistency control

Pudding continues to thicken as it cools due to starch gelation. If it becomes too thick, stir in additional lactose-free milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Scaling

This recipe halves or doubles easily. For half, use a smaller saucepan to maintain proper depth for even cooking.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches