Creamy Rice Pudding: A Comforting Classic Dessert

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rice Pudding is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. The combination of milk, butter, and sugar creates a smooth base for the rice, while the cinnamon and vanilla bring a warm, aromatic twist. You can also customize it with raisins, adding an extra layer of sweetness and texture. It’s the perfect dessert for a cozy night in or a special family gathering.

Ingredients

3½ cups milk (plus more, if needed)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ cup uncooked white rice
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ cup raisins (optional)
3 tablespoons heavy cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Combine the base ingredients:
   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, butter, sugar, rice, salt, and cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook the rice:
   Simmer the mixture uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Be sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan as you stir. If the mixture seems to dry out during cooking, add a few splashes of milk.
3. Add the finishing touches:
   During the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the vanilla extract, raisins (if using), and heavy cream. Let the pudding simmer for a couple more minutes to incorporate the flavors.
4. Serve:
   Serve the rice pudding warm, or allow it to cool and chill in the refrigerator. It will thicken up as it cools, and you can stir in a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency when serving chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 (or 4 large servings)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Add-ins: You can add other dried fruits, such as dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots, for a unique twist.
• Nuts: For a bit of crunch, add chopped pecans or almonds to the pudding during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Vegan Option: Swap the milk for almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free butter and cream for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pudding in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will take longer to cook and may result in a slightly different texture. You may need to add extra milk and cook it longer to ensure it’s tender.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this rice pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It will thicken as it cools, so you may want to add a bit of milk when reheating.

Is it necessary to add raisins?

No, raisins are optional. You can skip them if you don’t like them, or substitute with another dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, for a different flavor.

Can I use almond milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk or any other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure to use a thicker variety for the best consistency.

Can I make rice pudding without heavy cream?

Yes, if you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with extra milk or use a non-dairy cream alternative.

Why is my rice pudding too runny?

If your rice pudding is too runny, it may need more time to cook. Allow it to simmer longer until it thickens. You can also add more rice if you prefer a thicker pudding.

Can I freeze rice pudding?

While you can freeze rice pudding, the texture may change once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, store it in an airtight container, and make sure to stir in some milk after reheating to restore its creaminess.

How do I make my rice pudding creamier?

For a creamier pudding, try using whole milk instead of skim milk and add a bit more butter or heavy cream. You can also cook the rice a little longer for a softer texture.

Can I add spices other than cinnamon?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

Can I serve rice pudding cold?

Yes, rice pudding is often enjoyed both warm and cold. If serving it cold, it will thicken up, so you can add a little milk to adjust the consistency.

Conclusion

This creamy rice pudding is a timeless dessert that’s easy to make and wonderfully comforting. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, its rich, cinnamon-vanilla flavor will have everyone coming back for more. With simple ingredients and a few twists, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Serve it at your next family dinner or enjoy it as a cozy treat on a quiet evening.

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