If you’ve ever craved a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a creamy, dreamy classic that blends tender cooked rice with rich milk, a hint of cinnamon, and just the right touch of sweetness. This recipe captures the nostalgia of traditional homemade rice pudding while being incredibly easy to prepare, making it a timeless treat to share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—from the creamy whole milk that gives it a luscious texture to the cinnamon and vanilla that bring delightful warmth and aroma to every bite.
- 4 cups whole milk: Provides a rich, creamy base essential for that velvety pudding texture.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: The hearty foundation that absorbs all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding just enough without overpowering the natural creaminess.
- 2 large eggs: Create a silky, thick consistency when tempered into the pudding.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the dish with a warm, inviting aroma that’s classic and comforting.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle spicy note that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and smoothness to finish the pudding perfectly.
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional): A lovely burst of sweetness and texture if you like your pudding with a little fruity surprise.
How to Make Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Simmer the Rice and Milk
Start by combining the whole milk with cooked white rice in a medium saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step allows the rice to soak up the milk, softening and thickening the pudding’s base over about 15 minutes. Patience here results in a beautifully creamy texture that’s the hallmark of a great rice pudding.
Step 2: Sweeten and Spice It Up
Once the milk and rice mix has thickened slightly, stir in your sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. These simple ingredients elevate the flavor, with the cinnamon adding warmth and depth. Keep the mixture simmering for another 10 minutes while stirring often to develop that perfectly spiced, sweet foundation we all love.
Step 3: Temper the Eggs
To prevent scrambled eggs, it’s important to temper them gently. Beat your eggs in a small bowl first, then slowly whisk in about half a cup of the hot rice mixture. Gradually pour this combined egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly. This technique thickens the pudding safely, making it delightfully smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Cook Until Creamy and Thick
Reduce the heat to low and let the pudding cook for roughly 5 more minutes. Keep stirring frequently—it’s critical to prevent the pudding from sticking or curdling. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon with luscious creaminess.
Step 5: Stir in Butter, Vanilla, and Raisins
Take the pudding off the heat and fold in the butter and vanilla extract. The butter enriches the pudding while the vanilla brings a fragrant warmth that makes this recipe feel so nostalgic. If you enjoy a chewy burst of sweetness, this is the perfect moment to fold in those raisins.
Step 6: Serve Warm or Chilled
This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe can be enjoyed right away while it’s warm and comforting or chilled for a refreshing treat. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for a pretty finish, and get ready to indulge in every creamy spoonful.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnish can elevate your rice pudding from simple to spectacular. Consider a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added aroma and flavor. Toasted nuts like slivered almonds or chopped pistachios bring a delightful crunch contrast to the smooth pudding. Fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or a few blueberries add vibrant color and brightness.
Side Dishes
While rice pudding is often enjoyed as a standalone dessert, pairing it with something light can make your meal even more special. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette serves as a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a strong cup of black coffee or a soothing chai tea complements the creaminess and spices of the dish exceptionally well.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe in charming individual glass jars or vintage dessert bowls to impress at gatherings. For a festive touch, top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick. Layering the pudding with cooked fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce creates a stunning parfait that is both eye-catching and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more overnight. Just give it a good stir before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
While not always recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze rice pudding if necessary. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftover rice pudding warm, reheat it slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring continuously and adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture. Microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between works too, just be careful not to overheat it or it may become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, though it takes a bit longer to cook and can change the pudding’s creaminess. Using pre-cooked brown rice is best for this recipe.
Is it necessary to temper the eggs when making rice pudding?
Tempering the eggs prevents them from scrambling when added to the hot mixture. This step is key to achieving a smooth, custardy consistency, so it’s definitely worth the extra attention.
Can I skip the raisins in this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe?
Yes, raisins are optional and can be left out if you prefer a purer flavor or want to avoid dried fruit. You can substitute with other fruits or nuts if you like.
What’s the best way to sweeten the rice pudding if I want to avoid granulated sugar?
You can use alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, but keep in mind they’ll slightly alter the flavor and the pudding’s texture. Start with less and adjust to taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe for dairy-free diets, substitute the whole milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk. The texture may be a little different, but it will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe—the way it brings comfort, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia all in one bowl. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dessert or a sweet treat to impress guests, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Grab those simple ingredients and dive into this creamy, cinnamon-kissed delight. You’ll thank me later!
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
A classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding recipe featuring creamy cooked rice simmered in whole milk with sugar, cinnamon, butter, and vanilla, optionally enriched with raisins. This comforting dessert is gently cooked on the stovetop until thickened and perfect served warm or chilled.
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 Milk and Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of cooked white rice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- 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 promote even cooking.
- Temper the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to gradually warm the eggs, preventing curdling. Then, gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Cook Pudding to Thickness: Cook the pudding over low heat for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes thick and creamy.
- Finish with Butter, Vanilla, and Raisins: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for richness and flavor. Fold in 1/3 cup of raisins if you desire added sweetness and texture.
- Serve: Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled according to your preference. Optionally, sprinkle additional ground cinnamon on top before serving for a fragrant finish.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked rice or leftover cooked rice for convenience.
- Tempering the eggs is crucial to prevent scrambling and achieve a smooth pudding.
- You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like chopped dates or cranberries.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Rice pudding thickens further as it cools; adjust milk quantity if you prefer a thinner consistency.
