This Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and nostalgia in every spoonful. Creamy, sweet, and subtly spiced, it’s a dish that has been cherished by generations. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or warming up a chilly evening, this rice pudding is as versatile as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavor: A traditional recipe with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Creamy and Comforting: Rich, luscious texture with warm cinnamon and vanilla undertones.
- Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions make this a go-to dessert.
- Customizable: Add raisins, nuts, or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- White rice (short or medium grain)
- Milk (whole milk for creaminess)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Optional: raisins or nutmeg
Directions
- Cook the rice in a medium saucepan according to the package instructions until tender.
- In a separate saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Temper the eggs by slowly whisking some of the warm milk mixture into beaten eggs. Return this mixture to the saucepan.
- Stir in the cooked rice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, until the pudding thickens.
- Optionally, fold in raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Remove from heat and let the pudding cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
- Sugar Alternatives: Use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute for a healthier twist.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: Top with whipped cream, toasted nuts, or fresh berries for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it will alter the texture and cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook and has a nuttier flavor.
2. How do I prevent my rice pudding from becoming too thick?
Stir in extra milk as needed during cooking or reheating to maintain a creamy consistency.
3. Can I make rice pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and served cold or reheated when needed.
4. Can I freeze rice pudding?
Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently with added milk.
5. What kind of rice works best for rice pudding?
Short or medium-grain rice is ideal as it becomes soft and creamy during cooking.
6. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, using pre-cooked rice can save time. Just ensure it’s plain and unsalted.
7. Why is my rice pudding runny?
It may need more cooking time. Allow it to thicken on low heat while stirring.
8. Is rice pudding gluten-free?
Yes, as long as no gluten-containing additives are used in the ingredients.
9. Can I make rice pudding without eggs?
Yes, you can skip the eggs and use cornstarch or a plant-based thickener for a similar texture.
10. How do I enhance the flavor of my rice pudding?
Add a splash of rum or a handful of dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a classic dessert that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, its creamy texture and sweet, spiced flavor are sure to delight. Try it today and discover why this nostalgic treat has stood the test of time.
PrintAmazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
This creamy, comforting old-fashioned rice pudding is a timeless dessert that combines simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying treat. Perfectly sweetened with warm notes of vanilla and cinnamon, it’s a dessert your family will love.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, water, rice, sugar, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 20-25 minutes).
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Gradually stir a few spoonfuls of the hot rice mixture into the egg to temper it.
- Add the tempered egg back into the saucepan, stirring quickly to combine.
- Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Cook over low heat for another 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes. If using raisins, fold them in at this stage.
- Serve warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- For an even creamier pudding, substitute whole milk with half-and-half.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- The pudding will thicken as it cools; add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.