If you’re craving a comforting, timeless dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia with every spoonful, this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, gently spiced, and perfectly sweetened, it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from your favorite childhood memories. Whether you enjoy it warm right from the stove or chilled for a refreshing treat, this classic pudding never fails to satisfy with its simple ingredients and rich, velvety texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe calls for a handful of common pantry staples that come together beautifully to create that signature creamy texture and comforting flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role—milk offers richness, cooked rice provides body and a slight chew, and spices bring that familiar warmth.
- Whole milk: The creamy base that makes this pudding luxuriously smooth and rich.
- Cooked white rice: Provides a tender bite and heartiness, the star grain in this dessert.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens gently without overpowering the subtle flavors.
- Eggs: Adds creaminess and helps thicken the pudding to the perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant, sweet aroma that elevates the dish.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a classic spice note that feels utterly nostalgic.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance and enhance the overall sweetness.
- Butter: Adds silkiness and a touch of richness at the end.
- Raisins (optional): Provides bursts of chewy sweetness, a traditional addition.
How to Make Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Simmer Rice and Milk
Start by combining the cooked white rice and whole milk in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. This step softens the rice further and begins to create that luscious creamy base we love in an Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe. Let it gently thicken for about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Add Sugar, Cinnamon, and Salt
Next, stir in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. These simple additions bring sweetness and warmth, enhancing the comforting flavor profile. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring often to keep the mixture smooth and prevent burning.
Step 3: Temper the Eggs
In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. To avoid scrambling, slowly whisk in half a cup of the warm rice mixture into the eggs to gently raise their temperature. Then, gradually pour this egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to combine everything evenly. This is a crucial step to keep the pudding silky and prevent any lumps.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
Lower the heat and cook your pudding for about 5 more minutes, stirring continuously. This allows the eggs to thicken the mixture perfectly without curdling, creating that classic creamy texture.
Step 5: Finish with Butter, Vanilla, and Raisins
Remove the pot from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. This finishing touch enriches the flavor and adds a hint of aromatic sweetness. If you love a bit of fruity chew, fold in raisins now—they plump beautifully in the warm pudding.
Step 6: Serve Warm or Chilled
Your Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it warm, ideal for cozy evenings, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little extra ground cinnamon on top just before serving adds a lovely aroma and eye-catching touch. For an extra special treat, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey pairs beautifully with the creamy rice pudding.
Side Dishes
This pudding shines as a standalone dessert, but you can also serve it alongside fresh fruit like sliced berries or baked apples to complement its sweet, milky flavor without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, try layering the rice pudding in pretty glass cups with fruit compote or a sprinkle of toasted nuts to add texture and flair. You can even bake the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a light caramelized sugar crust for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover rice pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It thickens as it cools, so give it a good stir before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the pudding for up to one month by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in a splash of milk if it becomes too thick. This keeps your pudding creamy and smooth, just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe?
Brown rice can be used but it will change the texture and cooking time. It tends to be chewier and less creamy, so cook it thoroughly beforehand and expect a heartier pudding.
Is it necessary to temper the eggs?
Yes, tempering prevents the eggs from curdling when added to the hot mixture, ensuring a silky smooth pudding instead of scrambled bits.
Can I make this pudding dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version, though the texture may be less rich than with whole milk.
Why does the pudding get thicker after cooling?
The starches in the rice continue to set as it cools, which causes the pudding to firm up and thicken naturally.
Can I add other flavors to this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe?
Definitely! Nutmeg, cardamom, or a splash of orange blossom water can add delightful variations without losing the classic charm.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe is a little treasure with simple ingredients but a deeply satisfying flavor and texture. It’s a timeless dessert that offers comfort and sweetness, perfect whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging yourself. Give it a try—you might just find yourself adding it to your regular recipe rotation for a cozy treat anytime.
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding recipe offers a creamy, comforting dessert made with simple ingredients like milk, cooked rice, sugar, eggs, and a hint of cinnamon and vanilla. It can be served warm or chilled and is perfect for a cozy treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Dairy
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
Flavorings and Spices
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Milk and Rice: 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 to prevent sticking. Let it simmer for 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 keep the pudding from sticking and ensure flavors meld together.
- Temper the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to temper the eggs, preventing them from curdling. Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan while stirring constantly.
- Cook Until Thickened: Cook the pudding for an additional 5 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Finish the Pudding: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. If using, fold in 1/3 cup raisins gently.
- Serve: The rice pudding can be served warm or chilled. Optionally, sprinkle additional cinnamon on top before serving for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked white rice for convenience or leftover rice from previous meals.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Raisins are optional, but they add a pleasant sweetness and texture.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the pudding from sticking or burning at the bottom.
- Rice pudding thickens as it cools; if it becomes too thick, you can loosen it with a little warm milk before serving.
