If you’ve never started your day with a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl, you’re in for a cozy surprise. This simple yet indulgent dish turns an ordinary breakfast into something that tastes straight out of a dessert café. Think of it as the perfect balance between comfort and nutrition—creamy, warm, and naturally sweet, but packed with complex carbs to keep you fueled all morning. Whether you love cream of rice with chocolate chips, crave a strawberry shortcake cream of rice, or just want a more dessert-style rice porridge, this bowl fits right in.
The magic of a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl lies in its versatility. You can make it classic and simple or go all out with whipped toppings, drizzles, and fruits. It’s the ideal way to enjoy something indulgent without feeling weighed down—kind of like dessert for breakfast, but smarter. Plus, it’s gluten-free, easy to digest, and perfect for meal prep.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from what cream of rice really is, to how to cook it to silky perfection, plus irresistible topping ideas like peanut butter swirls, chocolate chips, and cinnamon-dusted berries. You’ll also learn a few creative twists—like turning your base into strawberry shortcake cream of rice or chocolate indulgent cream of rice breakfast.
Looking for more comforting, high-energy breakfast inspiration? Check out High Protein Vegan Overnight Oats — it’s another easy, nutritious recipe that pairs perfectly with your morning routine.
And if you love discovering fun and beautiful breakfast ideas, follow us on Facebook or explore our creative boards on Pinterest for more dessert-inspired bowls and meal ideas.
Table of Contents
What Is Cream of Rice and Why It Makes the Perfect Dessert Bowl
What Exactly Is Cream of Rice
Cream of rice is simply finely ground white rice cooked with water or milk until it turns into a smooth, pudding-like porridge. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to digest, and light—ideal for breakfast or a pre-workout meal. Unlike oatmeal, it’s silky and mild, making it the perfect base for sweet toppings like chocolate chips, nut butter, or fresh fruit.
Why It’s Great for Dessert-Style Bowls
Because cream of rice has such a neutral flavor, it easily takes on whatever you mix in—vanilla, cocoa, cinnamon, or berries. This makes it perfect for creating sweet cream of rice dessert bowls that taste indulgent but stay nutritious. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, plain or dressed up like strawberry shortcake cream of rice.
Nutritionally, it’s all about clean energy: rich in complex carbs for stamina, low in fat, and often fortified with iron for an extra boost. One serving provides roughly 45g of carbs and 70% of your daily iron needs—fuel that tastes like dessert.
Print
Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowl
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
A warm, cozy, and simple sweet cream of rice bowl topped with berries and nut butter – perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup cream of rice (45g)
- 1¼ cup water or milk
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2–3 droppers liquid stevia
- ½ cup fresh berries
- 2 tsp nut butter drizzle
- Optional: whipped cream, flake salt
Instructions
- Bring water and salt to a boil.
- Whisk in cream of rice and cook until thick and creamy.
- Stir in cinnamon and stevia.
- Top with berries, nut butter, and a sprinkle of flake salt.
- Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
For extra indulgence, top with a swirl of whipped cream and a pinch of flake salt. You can also swap berries for sliced banana or stone fruit.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 259
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43.5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Looking for more ways to make breakfast feel like a treat? Check out Healthy Chocolate Overnight Oats — another cozy recipe that satisfies your sweet side without the guilt.
How to Make the Perfect Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowl
Basic Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl is that it’s simple to make with just a handful of pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to start:
- ¼ cup cream of rice cereal
- 1¼ cups water or plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut milk work great)
- A pinch of kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Stevia, maple syrup, or honey for sweetness
- Fresh berries or banana slices for topping
- Optional: peanut butter or almond butter drizzle
These ingredients form the perfect foundation. Once you get comfortable, you can play around with flavor add-ins like cocoa powder for cream of rice with chocolate chips or mashed strawberries for a strawberry shortcake cream of rice.
Stovetop vs. Microwave Method
You can make cream of rice two ways:
Stovetop:
- Bring water and salt to a gentle boil.
- Gradually whisk in the cream of rice.
- Lower the heat and stir for about 2–3 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Remove from heat and mix in cinnamon and your chosen sweetener.
Microwave:
- Combine water, salt, and cream of rice in a bowl.
- Cook on high for 2 minutes, whisk, then heat for another 2 minutes.
- Stir again and let it sit for a minute to thicken.
Tip: Keep whisking to avoid lumps and get that silky dessert-style texture.
Pro Tips for Creamy Perfection
- Always use a whisk—not a spoon—for smoother consistency.
- If you want it richer, replace half the water with plant-based milk.
- Chill it for 1–2 hours for a pudding-like dessert bowl.
Once you’ve got your base, go wild with toppings—berries, nut butters, chocolate chips, or even a spoonful of yogurt for creaminess.
Learn more about Banana Bread Overnight Oats for another quick, cozy breakfast idea you can make ahead.
Flavor Variations — Turning Your Cream of Rice Into Dessert-Inspired Bowls
Strawberry Shortcake Cream of Rice
For a fruity, refreshing twist, transform your base into strawberry shortcake cream of rice. Simply mix in a few mashed strawberries and a splash of vanilla extract while cooking. Once it’s ready, top it with fresh strawberry slices, crushed graham crackers, and a light swirl of whipped cream. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and tastes just like dessert—without the guilt.
Pro tip: Let it chill for 30 minutes before adding toppings. The cool, pudding-like texture pairs perfectly with the berries and crunch.
Chocolate Chip Indulgence
If you’re craving something cozy and chocolatey, cream of rice with chocolate chips is the way to go. Stir a teaspoon of cocoa powder into your cream of rice as it cooks, then sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips on top while it’s still warm so they melt just a bit. For extra flavor, drizzle with peanut butter or a spoonful of coconut cream.
This version feels like dessert but fuels you with complex carbs and iron—perfect for mornings when you want comfort food that still fits your nutrition goals.
Cinnamon Swirl and Nut Butter Dream
For something classic yet rich, add extra cinnamon and a drizzle of almond or peanut butter. The combination of warm spice and creamy nut butter makes your sweet cream of rice dessert bowl feel indulgent, like a warm cinnamon roll in a bowl.
You can also add crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch or a spoon of vanilla protein powder for extra nutrients.
Don’t miss our Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats — another dessert-style breakfast that feels like a treat but keeps your macros balanced.
Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowls
A Balanced Blend of Comfort and Nutrition
One of the best things about a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl is that it delivers comfort and energy in one bite. It’s rich in complex carbohydrates that digest slowly, providing steady fuel throughout your morning or workout. Despite tasting indulgent, it’s naturally low in fat and cholesterol-free.
A ¼-cup serving of dry cream of rice contains roughly:
| Nutrient | Amount | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 | Provides lasting energy |
| Carbs | 45g | Supports stamina and focus |
| Protein | 2–3g | Helps recovery and fullness |
| Iron | 70% DV | Boosts blood oxygen levels |
| Fat | 0g | Light and easy on digestion |
A Smarter Indulgence
Most dessert-style breakfasts are loaded with sugar and heavy cream, but a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl uses natural sweeteners and wholesome toppings. Swap processed sugar for honey, maple syrup, or stevia, and layer it with fruits, nut butters, or cocoa powder to satisfy cravings the smart way.
It’s also ideal for gluten-free eaters and those with sensitive digestion. Its simplicity and nutrient profile make it a better option than processed cereals or pastries.
A Great Pre-Workout or Recovery Meal
Athletes love cream of rice because it’s easy to digest while providing fast fuel. Add a bit of nut butter or protein powder, and you’ve got a well-rounded pre- or post-workout meal that doesn’t feel heavy. It’s the kind of energy that powers you through a workout and keeps your recovery on track.
Looking for another performance-friendly recipe? Learn more about High Protein Overnight Oats for Weight Loss — it’s a similar balance of carbs and protein in a grab-and-go format.
Step-by-Step Guide — How to Cook the Perfect Cream of Rice
The Classic Stovetop Method
For the silkiest, most comforting texture, the stovetop method is unbeatable.
- Boil water or milk: Bring 1¼ cups of liquid to a gentle boil with a pinch of salt.
- Whisk in cream of rice: Slowly add ¼ cup of cream of rice, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer and thicken: Reduce heat to low and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring until it becomes creamy and smooth.
- Sweeten and flavor: Stir in stevia, cinnamon, or vanilla extract for your desired flavor.
Once it’s ready, spoon it into a bowl, top with berries, nut butter, or chocolate chips, and enjoy warm—or chill it for a dessert-like pudding.
Quick Microwave Version
Short on time? The microwave version is just as delicious.
- Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cook on high for 2 minutes, stir, then heat another 2 minutes.
- Let it sit for 1 minute to thicken.
- Add your favorite toppings.
Microwave cooking gives a lighter texture but still delivers that classic creamy flavor.
Bonus Tip: Chill It Like a Dessert
If you prefer a pudding-style texture, refrigerate your cooked cream of rice for 1–2 hours. The cool, firmed-up texture is perfect for layering with yogurt, fruit, or whipped cream for a dessert-style rice porridge.
For more creative breakfast transformations, check out Banana Berry Overnight Oats — it’s another sweet, colorful bowl that fits right into your morning routine.
Toppings and Mix-Ins for Your Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowl
Elevate Your Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowl
What makes a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl truly irresistible is what you put on top. This is where you can get creative and turn your warm breakfast into a dessert masterpiece. From fruits to nut butters to chocolate drizzles, your topping choices can completely transform the flavor and texture of your bowl.
Start with your base—creamy, lightly sweetened cream of rice—then layer on some of these delicious ideas.
| Topping | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) | Sweet and tangy | Adds freshness and antioxidants |
| Chocolate chips or cocoa nibs | Sweet, rich | Gives that dessert-style edge |
| Nut butter drizzle (almond, peanut, cashew) | Creamy, nutty | Boosts protein and flavor |
| Cinnamon or nutmeg | Warm, cozy | Enhances sweetness naturally |
| Coconut flakes | Tropical, light | Adds crunch and aroma |
| Flake salt | Subtle savory contrast | Balances sweetness perfectly |
Dessert-Inspired Combinations
- Chocolate Dream Bowl: Stir in cocoa powder and top with melted chocolate chips and banana slices.
- Strawberry Shortcake Cream of Rice: Add strawberry purée, crushed graham crackers, and whipped cream.
- Nutty Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in cinnamon and finish with a drizzle of almond butter and crushed walnuts.
These combinations turn your sweet cream of rice dessert bowl into something that feels like a cheat meal—but isn’t.
Texture Tips
If you want extra creaminess, use a 50/50 mix of water and plant-based milk. For a pudding-like dessert, chill your cooked cream of rice for a few hours before serving. The texture becomes thicker and smoother, perfect for layering with fruits or yogurt.
Looking for more topping ideas? Discover great ideas like Gelified Oat Parfait — it’s full of creative combinations that will inspire your next breakfast creation.
Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowl for Special Diets (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Vegan Options)
Gluten-Free Goodness
One major advantage of a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl is that it’s naturally gluten-free. Since cream of rice is made from finely milled white rice, it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Unlike oats—which can sometimes contain traces of gluten—rice cereal is clean, simple, and easy to digest. Just double-check the label to ensure it’s certified gluten-free if you have severe allergies.
Dairy-Free & Vegan Alternatives
It’s effortless to make your sweet cream of rice dessert bowl fully dairy-free or vegan. Replace cow’s milk with plant-based options like almond, oat, or coconut milk. For toppings, use nut butters, fruit compotes, or dairy-free whipped cream. If you want that luscious creamy texture, stir in a bit of coconut yogurt or cashew cream before serving.
For sweetness, stick with natural alternatives like maple syrup, agave, or stevia instead of honey to keep it 100% vegan-friendly.
High-Protein Vegan Boost
To make your indulgent cream of rice breakfast more balanced, add a scoop of plant-based protein powder or a spoonful of chia seeds. This combination provides a sustained energy release, making it ideal for post-workout recovery or busy mornings.
Here’s a quick vegan-friendly combo idea:
- Base: Cream of rice cooked in almond milk
- Mix-ins: Cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup
- Toppings: Peanut butter drizzle, sliced bananas, and dark chocolate chips
Simple, nourishing, and fully plant-based.
Looking for another vegan-friendly option? Learn more about Vegan No Powder Overnight Oats — a creamy, protein-packed breakfast that fits perfectly with your clean-eating goals.
FAQs About Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowls
What is cream of rice made out of?
Cream of rice is made from finely ground white rice. The rice is milled until it becomes a smooth flour-like texture, then cooked with water or milk until it thickens into a creamy cereal. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to digest, and perfect for turning into a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Is cream of rice the same as rice pudding?
Not quite. While both are rice-based, cream of rice is made from ground rice cereal, while rice pudding uses whole or partially cooked rice grains. Cream of rice is smoother, faster to make, and usually served as a breakfast bowl, while rice pudding is a richer, dessert-style dish that’s cooked longer and typically includes sugar, cream, and eggs.
Which traditional dessert is made from rice?
Rice pudding is the most common traditional rice-based dessert, enjoyed in many cultures around the world. However, the sweet cream of rice dessert bowl offers a lighter, quicker way to enjoy those same comforting flavors without all the extra sugar and dairy.
How to make creamed rice pudding?
To make a simple creamed rice pudding, simmer cooked rice in milk (or plant milk) with sugar and vanilla until thick and creamy. For a healthier twist, try using your sweet cream of rice dessert bowl base—cook cream of rice with milk, sweeten lightly with honey or stevia, and top it with fruit and cinnamon. It tastes like traditional pudding but takes only minutes to prepare.
Is Cream of Rice healthy?
Yes, it’s a nutritious choice—low in fat, cholesterol-free, and rich in complex carbs that keep you energized. It’s also fortified with iron and often B vitamins. When paired with healthy toppings like berries and nut butter, a sweet cream of rice dessert bowl becomes a balanced meal that supports energy, digestion, and endurance.
Can you use milk for Cream of Rice?
Absolutely! Using milk—especially plant-based varieties like almond, oat, or coconut—makes your cream of rice richer and creamier. It enhances the texture and adds natural sweetness, turning your simple cereal into a decadent dessert-style rice porridge. For a dairy-free twist, coconut milk gives a lush, tropical flavor that works beautifully.
For more creative ways to enhance your breakfast, check out Overnight Oats 101 Guide — it’s packed with useful tips and mix-in ideas for creamy, customizable bowls.
Conclusion — Why Sweet Cream of Rice Dessert Bowls Deserve a Spot in Your Breakfast Routine
A sweet cream of rice dessert bowl proves that breakfast doesn’t have to be boring. It’s warm, creamy, and indulgent, yet packed with the nutrients your body actually needs to start the day strong. Whether you love the simplicity of the classic version or crave dessert-inspired twists like strawberry shortcake cream of rice or cream of rice with chocolate chips, this bowl gives you endless ways to satisfy your cravings while staying balanced.
Beyond the flavor, it’s versatile, gluten-free, and easy to prepare in minutes—ideal for busy mornings or pre-workout fuel. You can keep it clean with just fruit and cinnamon, or make it feel luxurious with nut butters, cocoa powder, and coconut cream. Either way, it’s a delicious reminder that wholesome food can still feel like a treat.
If you’re ready to explore more creative, energy-boosting breakfasts, don’t miss our Cream of Rice vs Oatmeal Nutrition comparison to find the perfect fit for your diet and taste.
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