Description
This Amazing Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy and comforting dessert made on the stovetop using simple ingredients like white rice, milk, cream, and warming spices. It’s rich with vanilla and cinnamon, with optional raisins adding a touch of sweetness. Perfect served warm or chilled, it’s a classic American treat that’s easy to prepare and delightful for families.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 3/4 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk (plus more if needed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Flavorings and Add-ins
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the rice and water to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Add dairy and spices: Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the cooked rice. Leave the pot uncovered and cook over medium-low heat.
- Simmer and thicken: Stir the mixture frequently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it thickens and turns creamy. If the pudding becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
- Finish with flavorings: Remove the pot from heat and stir in vanilla extract, raisins if using, and butter. Then cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly to serve warm, or chill it thoroughly to serve cold depending on preference.
Notes
- Use short-grain rice for a creamier texture in the pudding.
- You can omit raisins or replace them with chopped dates or dried cranberries as preferred.
- The pudding thickens as it cools; add extra milk when reheating if you want a looser texture.
