Armenian Gatnabour (Creamy Rice Pudding)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

There are some desserts that bring back memories, and this one just does it for me! This traditional Armenian dessert is wonderfully creamy and made with simple ingredients like rice, sugar, milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk for an extra-rich texture. A dash of cinnamon and delicate hints of vanilla bring all the flavors together beautifully. With every spoonful, you’re reminded of the comforting flavors of home. Gatnabour is a beloved Armenian dessert that has been enjoyed for generations, often making its way to family tables during holidays, celebrations, and special gatherings.

This post is sponsored by JONS Fresh Marketplace! I’m thrilled to share this delicious recipe using their fresh groceries!

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity! All you need is a handful of everyday ingredients and a little patience. Consistent stirring is key to bringing this delicious dessert together, allowing the rice to soften and release its natural starches, creating that signature creamy texture. Adding sweetened condensed milk gives it an extra touch of sweetness and richness, while a splash of heavy cream takes the creaminess to another level.

For the final presentation, instead of simply sprinkling cinnamon on top, I love creating a delicate fall leaf pattern with cinnamon using a stencil. It adds those extra cozy seasonal touches that make this dessert feel even more special. And serving it in these elegant individual cups? That just did it for me! I’ve linked the cups and the stenciling patterns below if you’re interested. You can also find them on my Amazon Favorites list!

Whether you’re preparing this dessert for a holiday gathering or simply craving something sweet and comforting, this nostalgic Armenian Gatnabour is definitely worth making, especially during the holiday season!

This post contains referral links to products we have used or similar to the items used in this recipe. Galore Of Flavors earns a small commission on these links at no cost. You can find more products like these on our “Shop My Favorites” on our homepage! ♡

Shopping at JONS FRESH MARKETPLACE

One of the things that made preparing this recipe so enjoyable was shopping at my favorite market, JONS Marketplace. Every time I walk through their doors, I find myself surrounded by inspiration! I love how well-organized the store is, making it easy to find what I need without running from aisle to aisle. I was able to find almost everything for this recipe in one aisle. It honestly felt like I was shopping with my eyes closed! From everyday essentials to flavors from around the world, JONS always makes my shopping experience simple, enjoyable, and full of inspiration.

IN THIS POST: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ON HOW TO MAKE GATNABOUR (ARMENIAN RICE PUDDING)

SHOPPING AT JONS FRESH MARKETPLACE
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
🍴INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE GATNABOUR (ARMENIAN RICE PUDDING)
STEPS TO MAKE GATNABOUR (ARMENIAN RICE PUDDING)
TIPS TO MAKE THE BEST GATNABOUR!
JUMP TO RECIPE CARD

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Traditional but with my Twist: An Armenian dessert with a delicious vanilla and cinnamon flavor. Some like to flavor Gatnabout with the traditional Rose water or Orange Blossom.
Creamy and Delicious: Slowly simmered rice and a combination of milk and heavy cream create a naturally rich, smooth consistency.
Simple ingredients: Made with your everyday pantry and refrigerator staples, which I love!
Perfect for entertaining: Prepare this sweet dessert ahead of time and serve it in individual dessert cups, either chilled or warm to your preference.

🍴INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE GATNABOUR (ARMENIAN RICE PUDDING)

Here is a preview of the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe! You can find these at your local grocery store or you can shop online. (Detailed ingredients in Recipe Card down below) ⬇️

Short-grain rice: Creates the creamy texture that makes Gatnabour so special.
Milk: The foundation of this rich and silky pudding.
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness that makes it extra yummy!
Granulated sugar: Allows you to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a thicker, creamier texture.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the pudding to achieve the perfect consistency.
Vanilla: Adds a delicate sweetness and beautiful aroma to the Gatnabour.
Cinnamon: Brings warmth and complements the vanilla beautifully.
Cinnamon Sticks: For decor.

Note: For a more traditional Armenian flavor, you can omit the vanilla and substitute rose water or orange blossom water for a delicate floral aroma.

STEPS TO MAKE GATNABOUR (ARMENIAN RICE PUDDING)

Step 1: Cook the rice.
Place the short-grain rice in a pot and add the water. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice begins to soften and most of the water has been absorbed.

Step 2: Add the milk.
Pour in the milk and continue stirring consistently. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.

Step 3: Add the sweetness and flavor.
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Thicken the pudding.
Add the cornstarch and stir gently, making sure it dissolves completely without forming lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the pudding thickens. To check for doneness, run your finger through the pudding coating the back of a spoon. If the line stays visible without the pudding running back together, it’s ready!

Step 5: Cool, decorate, and serve.
Remove the pot from the heat and allow the gatnabour to cool slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. If using glass serving cups, allow the pudding to cool further before transferring it into the cups to avoid exposing the glass to sudden temperature changes.

Once transferred into individual cups, place a leaf-shaped stencil over each one and generously dust with cinnamon. Carefully lift the stencil to reveal the decorative pattern. Let the cups sit for a few minutes, then cover with plastic wrap, if desired, and refrigerate until chilled and set.

Tips to Make the Best Gatnabour!

Use short-grain rice: It helps release its natural starches, giving the pudding its signature creamy consistency and taste!
Patience: Allow the rice to cook slowly and stir consistently until very soft before adding the remaining ingredients. This helps prevent your milk and rice from sticking and creating a hard milky film at the top.
Watch the consistency: Gatnabour will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook and keep ingredients exact.
Prepare ahead of Time: This dessert is wonderful when made a day in advance, giving it plenty of time to chill. I prefer to eat it warm instead of chilled, but it’s up to you how you would like to serve it.

Have any questions about this recipe or have you tried making our recipe yet? If so, we would LOVE to hear how it turned out! You can post, tag, rate, and comment down below and on Instagram! 👇 Thank you in advance!

RECIPE CARD

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

WRITE US A REVIEW BELOW ⬇️

We would love to hear your thoughts if you tried out our recipe! 😊

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

WRITE US A REVIEW BELOW ⬇️

We would love to hear your thoughts if you tried out our recipe! 😊

💡FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is Gatnabour?

An Armenian rice pudding made with milk and sweetened, cooked until creamy and tender.

Is Gatnabour served Warm or Cold?

It can be enjoyed either way, but it is especially served chilled. But I prefer my rice pudding warm and served in individual dessert cups.

Can you make Gatnabour ahead of time?

Absolutely! The best part is that you can prepare these ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for up to a week, covered tightly with plastic wrap. They’ll be ready and waiting for your guests to enjoy! For the best freshness and flavor, I recommend serving them the next day.