Breakfast rice is a sweet, comforting way to transform leftover rice into a satisfying morning meal. Swap your usual oatmeal for this simple, flavorful bowl any day of the week.
I’m a big fan of quick breakfasts that make use of what’s already in the fridge. This breakfast rice does exactly that: it takes steamed rice leftover from dinner and turns it into a warm, slightly sweet bowl that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rice – Steamed white rice (you can substitute brown rice or any unseasoned cooked rice).
- Butter – Salted or unsalted, melted.
- Maple syrup – Use real maple syrup if you have it.
- Spices – A pinch of salt and ground cinnamon (to taste).
- Pecans – Crushed, for texture and flavor.
- Bacon – Optional; crisp and crumbled if using.
Method
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed rice, melted butter, maple syrup, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
2. Divide the sweetened rice into serving bowls while warm.
3. Top each bowl with crushed pecans and crumbled bacon, if you like.
4. Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup before serving, and enjoy immediately.
Serving suggestions
If you prefer a creamier, porridge-like texture, stir in a splash of warm milk before serving. Fresh fruit such as sliced banana, berries, or raisins also pairs nicely with the maple and cinnamon.
Storage and reheating
Store leftover breakfast rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little milk or water and a touch more maple syrup to restore moisture and sweetness. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips and variations
- Add mix-ins like raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped fresh fruit for extra flavor and texture.
- Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or omit spices entirely if you prefer a plainer bowl.
- No maple syrup? Brown sugar or honey will work as a substitute.
- For a savory take, skip the sweetener and butter, warm the rice with a drizzle of olive oil, and top with savory garnishes like green onions and a fried egg.
Recipe at a glance
- Prep time: about 5 minutes
- Total time: about 5 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Estimated calories per serving: 258 kcal
Ingredients (measured)
- 4 cups steamed white rice
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 1/2 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4–1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans
- Crisp, crumbled bacon for garnish (optional)
Instructions (concise)
- Combine rice, butter, maple syrup, and salt in a mixing bowl and stir until evenly combined.
- Mix in cinnamon to taste.
- Spoon into serving bowls and top with crushed pecans and bacon, if using.
- Serve warm with an extra drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Breakfast rice bowls are a fast, flexible way to refresh leftover rice and start the day on a cozy, flavorful note. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and spices to make it your own.