Rice Pudding
Creamy, Comforting & Timeless
Rice pudding is one of the world’s most beloved comfort desserts. Made with simple ingredients—rice, milk, and sugar—it transforms into something wonderfully creamy, gently sweet, and deeply nostalgic. Found in many cultures under different names, rice pudding is a reminder that the simplest recipes are often the most comforting.
Whether served warm on a cold evening or chilled on a summer day, rice pudding is always a delight.
Why Rice Pudding Is So Popular
-
Made with pantry staples
-
Naturally comforting and satisfying
-
Easy to customize with spices and toppings
-
Enjoyed warm or cold
-
Loved by all ages
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
-
½ cup short-grain rice (or Arborio)
-
1 liter (4 cups) whole milk
-
¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
¼ tsp salt
-
1 cinnamon stick or ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Optional additions: lemon zest, nutmeg, raisins, or condensed milk.
Instructions
1. Rinse the Rice
Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch while still keeping the pudding creamy.
2. Cook the Rice
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine rice, milk, salt, and cinnamon stick.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
3. Simmer Slowly
Lower heat and cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring often, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Sweeten and Finish
Stir in sugar and vanilla. Remove cinnamon stick.
Cook an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Rest and Serve
Let the pudding rest for 5–10 minutes. It will thicken further as it cools.
Serve warm or chilled.
Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding
-
Stir frequently to prevent sticking
-
Use whole milk for the creamiest texture
-
Add sugar near the end to avoid scorching
-
Adjust thickness with a splash of warm milk
-
Rice pudding thickens as it cools
Variations
Creamy Rice Pudding
Stir in a splash of cream or evaporated milk at the end.
Dairy-Free
Use coconut milk or almond milk (texture will be lighter).
Cinnamon Raisin
Add raisins during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Chocolate Rice Pudding
Stir in cocoa powder or chocolate chips at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Rice pudding is delicious topped with:
-
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg
-
Fresh fruit or berries
-
Honey or caramel sauce
-
Toasted nuts
-
A dollop of whipped cream
Storage & Reheating
-
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
-
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
-
Add milk when reheating to loosen texture
Why This Recipe Works
Slow cooking allows the rice to release starch gradually, creating a naturally creamy pudding without eggs or thickeners. Gentle heat and constant stirring ensure a smooth, comforting texture.
Final Thoughts
Rice pudding is proof that humble ingredients can create something truly special. Creamy, soothing, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
Perfect for family dinners, cozy evenings, or when you need a simple treat that feels like home.