Brazilian Pineapple and Coconut Rice Pudding

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Creamy rice pudding infused with tropical pineapple and coconut flavors, a refreshing and sweet Brazilian-inspired dessert. This brazilian-inspired desserts ready in about 45 minutes layers medium grain white rice, water, coconut milk into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 5 min Cook: 40 min Serves 4 Brazilian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Rinse 3/4 cup medium grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear.
  2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and 1 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 1 1/2 cups coconut milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1 tsp vanilla extract into the cooked rice. Cook uncovered over low heat, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
  4. Step 4: Fold in 1 cup diced fresh pineapple and cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let pudding cool slightly before serving. Garnish each serving with 2 tbsp toasted shredded coconut for a crunchy contrast.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Brazilian Pineapple and Coconut Rice Pudding take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (5 min prep + 40 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Brazilian Pineapple and Coconut Rice Pudding?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Brazilian Pineapple and Coconut Rice Pudding?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Brazilian Pineapple and Coconut Rice Pudding for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Brazilian Pineapple and Coconut Rice Pudding?

Brazilian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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