Rice Pudding Recipe – Creamy, Classic & Comforting!

The scent of warm milk, vanilla, and cinnamon filled my grandmother’s kitchen every Sunday afternoon. I’d sit by the counter, eagerly watching her stir the pot, waiting for the creamy, sweet rice pudding to thicken. That first spoonful—silky, comforting, and full of nostalgia—became a tradition in our family.

Now, I’m excited to share this Rice Pudding Recipe, a simple yet decadent dessert that brings together creamy textures, warm spices, and timeless flavors. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this homemade rice pudding is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!

Key Highlights

• This recipe yields a deliciously creamy rice pudding that’s ready in under an hour using simple ingredients.
• It serves 4 people and takes a total of 50 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cook time.
• The recipe is easy to follow and worth the effort, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert.
• Short-grain white rice is recommended for its higher starch content, which contributes to the creaminess of the pudding.
• The recipe can be easily adapted with various add-ins and flavor variations to suit your personal preferences.

Introduction to Traditional Rice Pudding

Rice pudding has been loved for generations, dating back to ancient times. It has changed over the years, showing off different cultures and traditions. Our traditional rice pudding recipe is simple yet rich, making it a favorite for many.

The History of Rice Pudding

Rice pudding started in Asia, where rice was a main food for centuries. When rice came to Europe in the Middle Ages, it became a luxury food.
If you’re looking for another creative use for kitchen staples, try our sourdough discard recipes for unique and sustainable baking ideas.
Today, rice pudding varies by region, with flavors like kheer in India and arroz con leche in Latin America.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Our traditional rice pudding recipe is known for its creamy texture and simple ingredients. It’s easy to make and can be flavored in many ways. This makes it perfect for any occasion.
Pair your rice pudding with other nostalgic comfort foods like our grilled cheese and tomato soup for a complete, heartwarming meal.

“Rice pudding has seen a surge in popularity with the reopening of restaurants dedicated to rice pudding, like Rice to Riches in Manhattan, New York, and the reinvention of the classic dessert at high-end restaurants like Pollen Street Social and Berner’s Tavern in London.”

With a rise in demand for homemade rice pudding, our recipe is a delicious comfort food choice.

Key Ingredients for a Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe

Making the perfect rice pudding starts with the right ingredients. This classic dessert needs a mix of key parts to get its creamy texture and taste. Each ingredient, from rice to dairy, is important for a comforting rice pudding.

The base is 3/4 cup of uncooked white rice, which thickens the pudding. It’s mixed with 2 cups of milk for creaminess. 1/3 cup of white sugar adds sweetness, and a large egg helps everything stick together.

2/3 cup of golden raisins add fruity sweetness. 1 tablespoon of butter and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract make the flavor richer, making the pudding indulgent.

Together, these ingredients make a creamy, flavorful rice pudding. By choosing and mixing these carefully, you’ll get a rice pudding recipe that everyone will love.

Choosing the Right Type of Rice

Choosing the right rice is key to making old-fashioned rice pudding perfect. Short-grain white rice is best because it’s very starchy. This makes the pudding creamy. Arborio, sushi rice, and sticky rice are great choices.

Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati can be used too. But they won’t make the pudding as creamy. They cook up fluffier and less starchy, leading to a less creamy pudding.

Best Rice Varieties for Pudding

• Arborio rice: Known for its high amylopectin starch content, which creates a creamy, risotto-like texture.
• Sushi rice: Also a short-grain variety, it has a sticky, glutinous quality that works well in rice puddings.
• Sticky rice (also called sweet rice): A short-grain rice with a high starch content, perfect for traditional rice puddings like biko.

Alternative Rice Options

For a healthier option, try brown rice in your pudding. But remember, it cooks longer and might need more liquid. Wild rice is another choice, adding a nutty flavor.

“The type of rice you choose can make or break your rice pudding. Short-grain varieties like arborio and sushi rice are the way to go for that perfect creamy texture.”

Now that you know which rice will give you the best texture, let’s make sure you have the right tools. Using the correct equipment will help you achieve the perfect creamy rice pudding every time.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make the perfect old-fashioned rice pudding, you’ll need some important cooking equipment. You’ll need a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan for cooking the rice and mixing the pudding. Also, a small mixing bowl for tempering the egg mixture and a whisk for mixing the ingredients.

A kitchen thermometer is also useful. It helps ensure the rice pudding cooks to the right temperature. This way, you can avoid curdling and get a smooth, creamy texture.

With these key rice pudding tools and cooking equipment, you’re ready to make a delicious, creamy, and authentic old-fashioned rice pudding at home.

How to Make the Best Rice Pudding (Step-by-Step Guide)

Indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of homemade rice pudding with this easy recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you make perfect rice pudding at home.

Preparing the Rice Base

Start by mixing 2 cups of cooked rice, 4 cups of whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a medium saucepan. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the milk thickens slightly, about 15-20 minutes.

Creating the Creamy Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until well combined. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once tempered, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining rice mixture.

Final Cooking Steps

Continue cooking the pudding over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a creamy consistency and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), about 10-15 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of raisins, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

The rice pudding will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm or chilled, and enjoy this comforting and satisfying dessert.

Remember, the key to achieving the perfect rice pudding is patience and attention to detail. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful how to make rice pudding that will delight your taste buds.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Making the perfect creamy rice pudding is all about balance. To get the right rice pudding texture, follow these key tips:

1. Stir the mix often while it cooks to stop the rice from sticking. This helps the rice release starches, making it creamier.
2. When adding the egg mix, do it slowly to avoid curdling. Start by mixing a bit of hot liquid with the egg before adding it to the rest.
3. Don’t let the mix boil after adding the egg. Keep it simmering to keep it smooth and creamy.
4. The pudding might seem runny when it’s warm. But it will thicken as it cools, reaching your perfect consistency.
5. For the creamiest pudding, use short-grain rice and whole milk. Their starch and fat make the pudding rich and velvety.

By using these tips, you’ll make a creamy rice pudding with the perfect rice pudding texture every time.

Flavor Variations and Add-ins

Rice pudding is a versatile dessert that can be customized with many ingredients. The classic recipe is tasty, but adding different mix-ins can make it even better. You can try traditional favorites or modern twists to enhance your rice pudding.

Traditional Mix-ins

Raisins, cinnamon, and vanilla extract are common in rice pudding recipes. Raisins add sweetness, cinnamon brings warmth, and vanilla adds a nice aroma. These ingredients give a comforting, old-fashioned taste that many love.

Modern Twists

For a unique rice pudding, try adding persimmon and orange blossom water. They add a floral and fruity flavor. Dark rum-soaked raisins bring a boozy twist, while coconut cream adds a tropical taste.

For a richer dessert, you might also enjoy our indulgent chocolate crème brûlée, a perfect contrast to the simplicity of rice pudding.

Fresh blueberries or sliced banana add a refreshing contrast. For an adventurous dessert option, check out our churro cheesecake bars for a sweet fusion of flavors. Spices like cardamom or star anise create unique aromas. Toasted nuts, like pistachios, add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

By trying different rice pudding variations and add-ins, you can make a dessert that suits your taste. Whether you prefer traditional or modern flavors, there’s always something new to try.

With so many ways to customize rice pudding, it’s easy to experiment with flavors. But before you start adding your own twist, let’s go over some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your pudding turns out perfectly every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making rice pudding, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Using long-grain rice is a big no-no because it doesn’t have enough starch. Instead, choose short or medium-grain rice like Italian arborio or sushi rice. These types are known for their creamy texture.

Another mistake is letting the mixture boil after adding the egg. This can cause it to curdle. So, cook the pudding over low heat, stirring constantly. This keeps it smooth and creamy. Also, make sure the rice is tender and fully cooked before adding other ingredients.

Lastly, don’t use low-fat milk. Whole milk is key for a rich and creamy rice pudding. Its high-fat content gives the pudding a velvety texture that’s hard to resist.

Conclusion

Rice pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a bowl of nostalgia, comfort, and timeless flavor. Whether you enjoy it warm on a cozy evening or chilled as a refreshing treat, this creamy, spiced pudding is a classic that never goes out of style.

With so many ways to customize it, every batch can be a little different, yet always delicious. Now, it’s time to create your own version of this beloved dessert!

Now it’s your turn! Have you tried this Rice Pudding Recipe?

💬 Drop a comment below and share:
✔️ Do you prefer your rice pudding warm or chilled?
✔️ Have you added any unique mix-ins like coconut, caramel, or chocolate?
✔️ Do you have a secret tip to make it extra creamy?

🔥 Pro Tip: Try topping your rice pudding with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of honey for an irresistible twist!

Rice Pudding

A classic, creamy dessert made with rice, milk, and a touch of cinnamon for a comforting treat.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, International

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Saucepan (notes: medium-sized, for cooking the pudding)
• Wooden spoon (notes: for stirring)
• Measuring cups (notes: for accurate ingredient measurements)

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup Uncooked white rice notes: preferably medium-grain
• 2 cups Whole milk notes: or any milk of choice
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream notes: for added richness
• 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon notes: plus more for garnish

Instructions

 

• In a medium-sized saucepan, combine rice, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.
• Let the pudding cool slightly, then serve warm or chilled. Garnish with additional cinnamon, if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, try mixing in raisins or topping with a dollop of whipped cream.

Keyword creamy dessert, easy recipe, rice pudding

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