Discover the best easy rice pudding recipe! This creamy, old fashioned homemade dessert uses simple ingredients and comes with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and delicious variations.
Table of Contents
What Is Rice Pudding?
Rice pudding is a classic, creamy dessert made by simmering rice with milk and sugar, often flavored with vanilla or cinnamon. Loved across the USA and worldwide, this comforting treat is perfect for families and easy to customize for any taste or diet.
Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Rice Pudding
- 1 cup white rice (short or medium grain for extra creaminess)
- 4 cups whole milk (or almond/coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste, or use honey/maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
You can use long-grain, short-grain, or even Arborio rice for a creamier texture. The milk is flexible—whole, skim, or plant-based all work well. Adjust the sweetness to your liking and add spices or extras for your favorite flavor profile.
How to Make Creamy Rice Pudding: Step-by-Step Instructions
Combine Ingredients:
In a large saucepan, mix rice, milk, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Rice:
Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, until rice is tender and mixture thickens. - Add Sweetness & Flavor:
Stir in sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and raisins (if using). Cook 5-10 minutes more, stirring often. - Finish & Serve:
Remove from heat. Add butter for extra creaminess. Let the pudding cool slightly; it will thicken as it sits. - Serve:
Enjoy warm or chilled. Top with extra cinnamon, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Tips for Perfecting Your Easy Rice Pudding
- Use short or medium grain rice for the creamiest results.
- Stir often to avoid burning or sticking.
- Adjust sweetness to your preference.
- Add extra milk at the end for a looser pudding.
- Let it rest after cooking for flavors to develop and pudding to thicken.
Variations on the Traditional Rice Pudding Recipe
Fruit: Add diced apples, raisins, or berries during cooking or as a topping.
- Tropical: Substitute coconut milk for some or all of the milk; top with fresh mango or pineapple.
- Chocolate: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or 1/2 cup melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
- Nutty: Top with chopped almonds, pistachios, or pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
- Sophisticated: Infuse the milk with lavender, rose water, or tea leaves before cooking.
Healthier Options for Rice Pudding
- Whole Grains: Use brown rice or quinoa for more fiber and nutrients.
- Natural Sweeteners: Use stevia, monk fruit, honey, or maple syrup to reduce calories.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond, oat, or coconut milk for a lighter, lactose-free dessert.
- Boost Nutrition: Add chia seeds or ground flaxseed for omega-3s and extra fiber.
Serving and Storing Your Homemade Rice Pudding
- Serve warm with cinnamon or whipped cream for cozy comfort.
- Serve chilled with fresh berries or fruit compote for a refreshing treat.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Thin with milk before serving if it becomes too thick.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Conclusion
Rice pudding remains a timeless, comforting dessert that brings together simple ingredients and rich flavors in every spoonful. Its creamy texture, adaptability to different tastes, and ease of preparation make it a favorite in kitchens across the USA and around the world. Whether you enjoy your rice pudding warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chilled with fresh fruit, this easy rice pudding recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Try experimenting with different variations vegan, chocolate, or fruit-infused to find your perfect version. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a homemade dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Don’t forget to share your results and favorite twists in the comments below!
For more classic comfort food recipes and tips on making the best homemade desserts, explore our other guides and join our community of food lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Rice Pudding
What is rice pudding?
Rice pudding is a creamy dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and often flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, or other spices. It’s a classic comfort food enjoyed worldwide.
What are the basic ingredients for making rice pudding?
Rice, milk, sugar, and flavorings such as vanilla and cinnamon. Some recipes use eggs for a richer, custard-like texture.
Can I use cooked rice for rice pudding?
Yes! Use 2 cups cooked rice and reduce the cooking time. Simmer with milk and sugar until thick.
How do I make vegan rice pudding?
Replace dairy milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk, and use a plant-based sweetener.
Why is my rice pudding too thick or thin?
If too thick, add more milk and stir. If too thin, simmer longer to reduce liquid.
How should homemade rice pudding be served and stored?
Serve warm or chilled, and garnish with cinnamon or whipped cream. Store in the fridge for up to five days.
Rice Pudding: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert
Rice pudding stands the test of time as a beloved dessert that offers both comfort and simplicity. Its ease of preparation, adaptability to dietary needs, and nostalgic flavor make it a staple in kitchens everywhere. Whether you enjoy it warm in winter or chilled in summer, this easy rice pudding recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
easy rice pudding recipe, creamy rice pudding, old fashioned rice pudding, homemade rice pudding, rice pudding with milk, best rice pudding recipe, vegan rice pudding, chocolate rice pudding, healthy rice pudding
For more culinary inspiration and delicious recipe ideas, join me on Pinterest and Facebook to discover even more mouthwatering creations to share!
Easy Rice Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
- “1 cup white rice short or medium grain”,
- “4 cups whole milk or almond/coconut milk for dairy-free”,
- “1/2 cup sugar”
- “1 teaspoon vanilla extract”
- “1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional”,
- “1/2 cup raisins optional”,
- “1/4 teaspoon salt”
- “1 tablespoon butter optional, for richness”
- ]
Notes
- Rice Type: For the creamiest texture, use short or medium grain rice such as Arborio or sushi rice. Long grain rice can be used but results in a less creamy pudding.
- Milk Options: Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but you can substitute with almond, coconut, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Feel free to replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or your preferred natural sweetener. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Cooking Tips: Stir frequently while cooking to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even cooking.
- Thickness Adjustment: If the pudding becomes too thick, stir in a little extra milk before serving. If it’s too thin, cook a few minutes longer to reduce the liquid.
- Serving Suggestions: Rice pudding is delicious served warm or chilled. Top with cinnamon, nutmeg, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare rice pudding a day in advance. Flavors often improve after resting in the fridge overnight.
