Prepare yourself for a delightful twist on a classic Egyptian treat – introducing Roz Bil Laban, our take on the beloved Rice Pudding! This cozy concoction brings together rice, milk, cream, and a sprinkle of spices to create a warm, sweet sensation that’s not just easy to whip up but also ultra-satisfying.
But hold on – here’s where it gets even better. The addition of coconut cream takes this rice pudding to a whole new level of creamy, dreamy goodness. Get ready to indulge in a dessert experience that’s comforting, flavorful, and downright irresistible!
Table of Contents
What Is Roz Bil Laban?
If you’ve ever been to Egypt, chances are you’ve tried or at least seen roz bil laban. Simple and delicious, it’s a sweet recipe that can be found in pretty much any restaurant or dessert shop. Consisting of rice, milk, coconut cream, sugar, and cornstarch, it’s an Egyptian version of coconut rice pudding. Rich in flavor and super creamy, it’s unbelievably delicious and super easy to make at home. Plus, it makes a large batch, meaning it’s great for feeding a crowd!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this coconut rice pudding are super simple and budget-friendly, making it one of our go-to comfort food desserts! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Milk – Whole milk is used to cook the rice, making it extra fluffy and creamy.
- Rice – Uncooked short-grain rice works best.
- Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the mixture, transforming a traditionally savory food into a dessert.
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the mixture, making it pudding-like in consistency.
- Canned Coconut Cream – This creates an extra creamy texture and adds just a hint of coconut flavor. If needed, heavy cream can be substituted for similar results.
- Vanilla Extract – Use pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the rest of the ingredients.
- Salt – Just a pinch helps enhance the sweet flavor.
- Cinnamon – Technically optional but highly recommended a dash of cinnamon helps enhance the pudding for a sweet and slightly spicy taste that will leave you coming back for more.
How to Make Coconut Rice Pudding
If you can make rice, you can make this coconut rice pudding recipe! Here’s what to do:
- Cook the Rice. Bring the milk to a simmer in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the rinsed rice, and mix to combine. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook until the rice is tender, stirring every 6-8 minutes.
- Sweeten. Stir in the sugar, making sure it dissolves completely.
- Combine. In a measuring cup, combine the milk and cornstarch until there are no lumps. Then pour it into the rice pudding, and cook until the mixture thickens. Next, stir in the remaining ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Serve. Place the coconut rice pudding into a 2-quart serving dish or individual cups, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
Topping Ideas
It’s time to unleash your creativity and turn this roz bil laban into your own dessert masterpiece! Mix and match your favorite toppings for an explosion of texture and flavor. Here are some of our favorite options to spark your imagination:
- Crushed Pistachios
- Toasted Coconut Flakes
- Raisins
- Walnuts
- Almonds
How to Store
This coconut rice pudding is best served right away. However, if you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, follow the tips below to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerator: Let your coconut pudding cool completely. Then, transfer it to a sealable container, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: If you can avoid it, we don’t recommend freezing this recipe as the texture is likely to change once it thaws. However, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: When you’re ready to eat, let your coconut rice pudding thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it in the microwave or in a pot over medium heat on the stove.
Coconut Rice Pudding Common Questions
Yes, it will have a slightly different flavor, but you can swap out the milk with non-dairy or coconut milk instead.
Not quite. Although similar, rice pudding is made with a base of rice whereas tapioca is made with a base of cassava root. As a result, rice pudding has a smoother, creamier texture.
Either! This coconut rice pudding tastes great either way but is extra comforting when served warm.
More Easy Rice Recipes
Ready to elevate your rice game? Explore a world of unique and delicious ways to use rice with our favorite recipes below!
Coconut Rice Pudding (Roz Bil Laban)
Ingredients
- 8 1/4 cups whole milk divided
- 1 cup short grain rice rinsed until water runs clear
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup canned coconut cream if using full-fat canned coconut milk, make sure to use the cream that’s at the top of the can OR SUB with 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- 2 teaspoons high-quality vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: crushed pistachios toasted coconut flakes, raisins, walnuts, and almond for topping
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 8 cups milk, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the rinsed rice, stirring to combine.1 cup short grain rice, 8 1/4 cups whole milk
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender, stirring every 6-8 minutes.
- Add the sugar, stirring until it is completely dissolved.3/4 cup granulated sugar
- In a measuring cup, add the remaining ¼ cup milk and cornstarch, whisking to combine. Pour the mixture into the rice pudding, and continue to cook until the liquid thickens.1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- Add the coconut cream, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon, if using. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and creamy.1/2 cup canned coconut cream, 2 teaspoons high-quality vanilla extract, Salt to taste, Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pour the mixture into a large 2-quart serving dish or individual cups. Let cool. Add the toppings of choice just before serving, and enjoy warm or cold.Optional: crushed pistachios
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
fantastic! so easy and delisious. I topped with cardamon!
Yum! Thank you, Ann! We’re so glad you enjoyed it. 😊
Xo,
Alia & Radwa
This looks amazing, however I don’t drink regular milk and I’m wondering how this would do made with a plant based(almond or oat) milk?
It should be fine! We recommend using a dairy-free milk higher in fat such as coconut milk or cashew milk!
Xo,
Alia & Radwa
Just made, absolutely delicious!
Thank you, Aida! We’re so glad you enjoyed it!
Xo,
Alia & Radwa
Looks amazing ya banat. Keep up the amazing work! 🙂
Thank you, Sarah! 🥰
Xo,
Alia & Radwa
will try it. thanks
We hope you enjoy it, Sarah!
Xo,
Alia & Radwa