If you crave a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your childhood, this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, comforting, and gently spiced, this classic treat brings together simple ingredients that transform into a luscious pudding with a velvety texture and just the right hint of cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for cozy evenings or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is a timeless reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes are truly the most satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are humble staples found in most kitchens, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and warmth that defines this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe.
- Whole milk: The creamy base that delivers richness and smooth texture to the pudding.
- Cooked white rice: Provides structure and that comforting chewiness every bite should have.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Large eggs: Thicken the pudding for a silky, custard-like consistency when tempered carefully.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, elevating the pudding’s aroma.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a gentle spice that complements the creamy rice beautifully.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Butter: A final touch of richness and smooth finish.
- Raisins (optional): For a subtle burst of sweetness and chewy texture contrast.
How to Make Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Simmer the milk and rice
Start by combining whole milk with cooked white rice in a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture softens and thickens, creating the creamy foundation for your pudding. This gentle simmering is crucial as it allows the rice to absorb the milk, imparting that luscious softness we all love.
Step 2: Add sugar, cinnamon, and salt
Once the mixture starts to thicken, stir in granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Keep simmering while stirring often to blend these flavors evenly throughout. This step infuses the pudding with the classic aroma and the perfect hit of sweetness and spice that makes the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe so memorable.
Step 3: Temper the eggs
In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Slowly whisk in a bit of the hot rice mixture to the eggs—this tempering prevents scrambling by gently raising their temperature. Then, gradually stir the egg mixture back into the saucepan. This technique adds creaminess and thickens the pudding beautifully without lumps.
Step 4: Cook until creamy
Lower the heat and continue cooking the pudding for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll notice the pudding becoming thicker, glossy, and irresistibly creamy. This stage requires patience and gentle stirring, as it brings everything together into the perfect texture.
Step 5: Finish with butter, vanilla, and raisins
Remove the pudding from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract immediately. The butter enriches the flavor, while the vanilla brings a fragrant warmth. If you love a little surprise in every spoonful, fold in raisins now—they plump up nicely and add delightful bursts of sweetness.
Step 6: Serve warm or chilled
Your Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is ready to enjoy! You can serve it warm, perfect for chilly nights, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing treat that’s just as comforting.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top adds an inviting aroma and a lovely visual touch. For extra creaminess, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can be heavenly additions that complement the classic flavors.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced mangoes, berries, or stewed apples. For a contrasting texture and flavor, a crunchy biscotti or cinnamon toast adds a delightful element to your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pudding in vintage glass bowls or ramekins topped with a cinnamon stick for a rustic charm. Layer it with fruit compotes or nut butters in a clear jar to transform it into a pretty parfait. The Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is versatile and looks as good as it tastes when presented thoughtfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover rice pudding is a dream to store and enjoy later. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making every subsequent spoonful even more satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze rice pudding, but note that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy consistency. Adding a splash of milk while reheating helps restore moisture and smoothness. Whether you prefer a warm bowl or chilled dessert, reheating keeps this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe as enjoyable as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked rice for this pudding?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked rice is a smart and convenient way to make this recipe. Just ensure the rice isn’t too dry, and you’ll get that perfect creamy texture without any problem.
Is it necessary to temper the eggs?
Yes, tempering the eggs is important to avoid curdling or scrambling. Slowly mixing hot rice mixture into beaten eggs gradually raises their temperature, ensuring a smooth, creamy pudding.
Can I substitute the whole milk with a dairy alternative?
You can try using creamy plant-based milks like coconut or almond, but whole milk gives the most classic, rich texture. If you opt for substitutes, choose unsweetened varieties and expect a slight difference in taste and creaminess.
Are raisins essential in this recipe?
Raisins are entirely optional. They add lovely bursts of sweetness and chew, but if you’re not a fan, leaving them out still results in a delicious, creamy pudding true to the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe tradition.
How long does it take to make this pudding from start to finish?
This recipe takes about 35 minutes in total, making it a quick and rewarding dessert that’s perfect for both last-minute cravings and planned gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is one of those rare desserts that brings comfort, nostalgia, and pure joy in every bite. It is straightforward enough to whip up on a weekday yet special enough to impress your guests or delight your family. I hope you find as much happiness in making and savoring it as I do sharing it with you. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite dessert!
Print
Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding recipe delivers a creamy, comforting dessert made from cooked white rice simmered in whole milk and sweetened with sugar. Enhanced with aromatic vanilla and cinnamon, and finished with butter and optional raisins, this pudding is perfect served warm or chilled for a nostalgic, satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Simmer Rice and Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of cooked white rice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
- Add Sugar and Spices: Stir in 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Temper the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Slowly whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to gently warm the eggs and prevent curdling. Gradually pour this egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to blend smoothly.
- Cook Until Thickened: Cook the pudding over low heat for an additional 5 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Finish and Add Extras: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. If desired, fold in 1/3 cup of raisins to add texture and sweetness.
- Serve: Serve the pudding warm or chilled according to preference. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon on top before serving for garnish and added flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked white rice that is preferably a day old for the best texture.
- Tempering the eggs is crucial to avoid scrambling when adding them to the hot mixture.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free butter.
- Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
