Name: Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding – A Wholesome Comfort Dessert
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup quinoa (85 g); 2 cups milk of choice (480 g) – almond, soy, coconut, or dairy; 2 tbsp maple syrup (30–45 g), or other sweetener; 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 g); 1/2 tsp cinnamon (1.5 g); Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving something warm, cozy, and slightly sweet without the sugar crash, this Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding might just become your go-to recipe. It’s creamy like rice pudding, but protein-rich, gluten-free, and made with nourishing ingredients that still feel indulgent.

With cinnamon-spiced milk, a hint of maple syrup, and nutty quinoa, it’s a wholesome bowl that works as breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding – A Wholesome Comfort Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally sweetened: Just a touch of maple syrup goes a long way.
Customizable: Use any milk, sweetener, or toppings you like.
Meal prep-friendly: Make a batch and enjoy all week.
High in protein and fiber: Thanks to quinoa, it’ll keep you full longer.
Comfort food feel: Think rice pudding, but lighter and better for you.

Ingredients

Tip: you can find the full ingredients and measurements list in the recipe card below.

1/2 cup quinoa (about 85 g)
2 cups milk (480 g) – any kind: whole milk, almond, coconut, or soy
2 tbsp maple syrup (30–45 g) – or sweetener of choice
1 tsp pure vanilla extract (5 g)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (1.5 g)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Rinse the Quinoa

Place the quinoa in a mesh colander. Rinse thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Let it drain well. This step helps remove bitterness from the quinoa.

2. Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, add rinsed quinoa, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

3. Simmer Gently

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce to a low simmer and cover with the lid cracked to let steam escape. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes or so to prevent sticking.

4. Thicken and Add Vanilla

Remove the lid and simmer for another 5 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you prefer it creamier, add a splash more milk.

5. Serve Warm or Cold

Let sit for a few minutes before serving warm, or refrigerate overnight for a thicker pudding texture. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if you like.

Variations

Add fruit: Top with banana, apple slices, or berries.
Make it chocolatey: Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
Nutty version: Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or coconut flakes.
Use different milk: Soy, almond, oat, or regular dairy all work well.
Switch sweeteners: Try agave, date syrup, honey, or monk fruit.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The pudding will thicken over time.

Reheat:
Warm gently in a pot or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen it back up.

Freezer:
Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat with extra milk as needed.

FAQs

Is quinoa pudding like rice pudding?

Yes! It has a similar creamy, comforting texture but with a nuttier flavor and more protein.

Do I have to rinse the quinoa?

Yes, rinsing removes its natural coating (saponin), which can make it taste bitter or soapy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Use any plant-based milk and sweetener like maple syrup or agave.

What type of milk works best?

Any milk works, but full-fat options like soy or coconut milk make it extra creamy.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully. Just use a larger pot.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes. Use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or skip sweetener altogether and top with fresh fruit.

Is this a breakfast or dessert?

Both! It’s light enough for breakfast but satisfying enough for dessert.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes. Once refrigerated, it becomes even thicker and pudding-like.

How do I keep it from sticking to the pot?

Stir frequently and use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, but wait until after cooking. Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder after it’s off the heat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Vanilla Quinoa Pudding is proof that healthy and comforting can absolutely go hand in hand. Whether served warm on a chilly morning or chilled on a summer evening, it hits the spot every time. With just a few simple pantry staples, this recipe gives you nourishing comfort in every spoonful.