Creamy Kheer Rice Pudding Recipe Easy Homemade Cardamom Saffron Dessert
A creamy and fragrant rice pudding flavored with cardamom and saffron, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. This easy homemade dessert offers a silky smooth texture and nostalgic comfort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk
- ½ cup (100 grams) basmati rice
- ⅓ cup (65 grams) sugar
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- A pinch (about 10 strands) saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or cashews) – optional
- 1 tbsp raisins – optional
- ½ tsp rose water – optional
Instructions
- Rinse ½ cup (100 grams) basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Soak about 10 saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Pour 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the rinsed rice and 4 lightly crushed green cardamom pods to the boiling milk. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring frequently.
- Cook uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the rice is soft and the milk thickens to a creamy consistency. Add warm milk if the mixture reduces too fast.
- Stir in ⅓ cup (65 grams) sugar and the soaked saffron with its milk. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring gently until sugar dissolves.
- Add 2 tablespoons chopped nuts, 1 tablespoon raisins (if using), and ½ teaspoon rose water. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then turn off heat.
- Let the kheer cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled.
Notes
Slow and gentle simmering is key to avoid scorching the milk. Stir frequently but gently. Soak saffron strands before adding for richer color and aroma. Adjust sugar to taste near the end. For dairy-free version, use coconut or almond milk and reduce sugar slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About ½ cup (125 ml)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Protein: 6
Keywords: kheer, rice pudding, cardamom, saffron, creamy dessert, Indian dessert, easy kheer recipe, homemade pudding