If you’ve been on the hunt for a comforting, timeless dessert to warm your heart and delight your taste buds, look no further than this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe. It’s a creamy, dreamy classic that brings together simple pantry staples like rice, milk, sugar, and warm spices into a cozy bowl of pure joy. Whether you enjoy it warm right out of the pot or chilled after a day in the fridge, this rice pudding never fails to evoke nostalgia and comfort with every spoonful. It’s truly a labor of love that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this recipe so wonderful is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that smooth, luscious texture and comforting flavor. From the creamy whole milk to the fragrant spices, every component is a simple but essential star in this dessert.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice: Provides the tender, chewy base that absorbs all the creamy flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups water: Used to initially cook the rice until it’s perfectly soft and fluffy.
- 4 cups whole milk, divided: Adds the rich creaminess that turns the rice into pudding.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding just enough to balance the creamy texture and spices.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Gives the pudding structure and a silky finish when gently cooked in.
- 1 cup raisins (optional): Adds a pleasant pop of sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the pudding’s overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides that classic spice note that’s simply irresistible.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle hint of earthiness enhancing the cinnamon’s charm.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
How to Make Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Cooking the Rice
Start by bringing the rice and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This step is essential because it softens the rice so that the grains are tender yet intact, which creates the perfect base for our pudding.
Step 2: Adding Milk and Sweetness
After the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed, stir in 3 cups of the whole milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when the magic happens—the pudding thickens up and transforms into a creamy delight.
Step 3: Incorporating Eggs for Creaminess
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of milk and the beaten eggs. Slowly temper this mixture into the hot rice pudding, stirring constantly so you don’t end up with scrambled eggs. Cook for 2 more minutes while stirring to achieve a silky, rich texture that is signature to this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe.
Step 4: Adding Flavorful Finishing Touches
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the raisins, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These final additions add layers of warm, comforting flavor that make this dish a true classic. Let the pudding cool slightly before serving—it thickens up a bit more as it cools.
How to Serve Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top, or for a touch of luxury, add a fluffy dollop of whipped cream just before serving. These simple garnishes highlight the pudding’s natural creaminess and add visual appeal that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy this dessert.
Side Dishes
This pudding shines best as a standalone dessert, but if you want to make it part of a larger cozy meal, consider pairing it with a cup of strong coffee or a small bowl of fresh berries on the side. The acidity of berries cuts through the sweetness and adds a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the rice pudding in individual glass jars or vintage teacups for a charming presentation. Layer a bit of caramel sauce or fruit compote on the bottom for added flair and flavor variations. The possibilities with this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe are as endless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because this pudding disappears fast), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for quick grab-and-go snacks or dessert after a busy day.
Freezing
While freezing rice pudding is possible, it can slightly alter the texture. If you decide to freeze portions, use airtight freezer-safe containers and consume within a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your rice pudding back to life, gently rewarm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to keep it creamy and prevent scorching. You can add a splash of milk or cream during reheating if it feels too thick. Microwaving in short bursts also works well for convenience.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Brown rice has a firmer texture and longer cooking time, so while you can use it, expect a chewier pudding and extended cooking. You may need to increase the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Is it necessary to add eggs in the pudding?
Eggs give the pudding its rich, custard-like texture and help it set smoothly. If you prefer an egg-free version, it will be less thick and creamy but still tasty, although technically not the classic consistency of this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe.
Can I omit the raisins?
Absolutely! Raisins add a lovely burst of sweetness and texture, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out or substitute with chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or even no fruit at all.
What’s the best type of milk to use?
Whole milk is preferred for its creaminess and mouthfeel, but you can experiment with reduced-fat or plant-based milks, keeping in mind that the pudding’s flavor and texture might subtly change.
How do I know when the pudding is done cooking?
You’ll notice the pudding is ready when it thickens to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon, and the rice is tender without being mushy. It will also thicken more as it cools.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to make this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe a regular part of your dessert rotation. It’s one of those timeless dishes that bring comfort and happiness with every bite, made with just a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience. Give it a try, and you might find it quickly becomes one of your favorite sweet traditions too!
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Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made with tender rice cooked slowly in milk and sweetened with sugar, enhanced with warm spices and optional raisins. It’s perfect served warm or chilled and delivers a nostalgic homemade treat reminiscent of traditional American desserts.
Ingredients
Rice and Liquid
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups whole milk, divided
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the rice and water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
- Add milk and sugar: Stir in 3 cups of the milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning, for 15 to 20 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
- Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the remaining 1 cup of milk together with the beaten eggs. Slowly pour this egg and milk mixture into the hot rice pudding while stirring constantly to avoid curdling.
- Finish cooking: Continue cooking and stirring for another 2 minutes on medium-low heat until the pudding thickens slightly more.
- Add flavor and raisins: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in raisins if using, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly and serve warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- Sprinkle extra cinnamon or top with whipped cream for added flavor when serving.
- For an even creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream can be stirred in before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
