Simple Mace Rice Pudding
A fragrant, creamy rice pudding infused with the warm, delicate aroma of mace. Slow-cooked rice melds into sweetened milk, creating a comforting dessert that feels both elegant and homey—perfect for cozy evenings or festive celebrations.
For 4 servings
- prep
Soak the saffron.
Warm 1 tablespoon of milk and add the saffron strands. Set aside to steep while the pudding cooks.
- saute · ~1 min
Sauté the rice in ghee.
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the ghee over medium-low heat. Add the drained rice and sauté gently for 1 minute until the grains turn translucent and release a nutty aroma.
TIPDon't let the rice brown — low heat prevents the ghee from burning. - boil
Cook the rice in milk.
Pour in the whole milk and add the mace blades and crushed cardamom pods. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent the milk from scorching at the bottom.
TIPConstant stirring at this stage is the secret to a creamy pudding without burned bits. - simmer · ~40 min
Simmer until thick and creamy.
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Let the pudding simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 35-40 minutes. The rice will swell, break down, and thicken the milk into a creamy, porridge-like consistency.
TIPScrape the bottom and sides of the pot each time you stir for even cooking. - mix · ~3 min
Sweeten and finish.
Add the sugar, the saffron-milk mixture, and a tiny pinch of salt. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and the pudding takes on a golden hue. Remove from heat.
TIPAdding sugar late prevents the rice from toughening during the long simmer. - assemble
Remove whole spices and serve.
Fish out the mace blades and cardamom pods. Ladle the warm pudding into serving bowls.
- garnish
Garnish with nuts and serve warm or chilled.
Scatter slivered almonds and pistachios over each bowl. The pudding can be enjoyed warm right away or chilled in the refrigerator for 2 hours for a thicker, cooler dessert.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for a silkier pudding.
- 2Stir the milk constantly when bringing it to a boil to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pot.
- 3Simmer on the lowest heat possible so the rice breaks down slowly and the milk reduces without curdling.
- 4Use a heavy-bottomed pot or a nonstick pan to ensure even heat distribution and avoid burnt spots.
- 5Add sugar only at the end — adding it early can prevent the rice grains from softening fully.
- 6For a thicker, firmer pudding, let it cool completely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- 7Reserve a few whole mace blades and cardamom pods to garnish the bowls for a beautiful presentation.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut-free
Omit the almond and pistachio garnish and replace with toasted coconut flakes or dried rose petals for a nut-free version that still adds crunch and visual appeal.
lactose freeLactose-free
Substitute whole milk with full-fat oat milk or coconut milk and replace ghee with coconut oil — the natural sweetness of coconut complements the mace beautifully.
low sugarLow-sugar
Reduce sugar to 2 tablespoons and add 1 chopped Medjool date or a drizzle of maple syrup at the end for gentle sweetness with a caramel undertone.
kheer style (thinner)Kheer-style (thinner)
Add an extra 1/2 cup milk after simmering and skip the refrigeration; serve warm as a drinkable kheer, keeping the spice infusion intact.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Calcium
Whole milk provides a generous amount of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, in every creamy serving.
Aromatic Digestive Aid
Mace and cardamom are traditionally used in Indian cooking to support digestion and reduce bloating after a meal.
Energy from Complex Carbs
Basmati rice offers sustained energy release, making this pudding a satisfying yet gentle dessert for a cozy evening.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Almonds and pistachios contribute unsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Natural Antioxidants
Saffron provides antioxidant compounds like crocin, which may help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but avoid long-grain non-basmati as it may not break down enough. Short-grain or Arborio rice will yield an even creamier, risotto-like texture.
