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A bowl of rice pudding infused with vanilla and cinnamon, garnished with a cinnamon stick.

Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: One medium pot of rice pudding

Description

This Creamy Rice Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—rich, velvety, and incredibly easy to make. Made with simple pantry staples like rice, milk, and vanilla, this warm and cozy treat is perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm with cinnamon or enjoy it chilled with fresh fruit—either way, it’s creamy, nostalgic, and completely irresistible!


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients:

  • ½ cup short-grain rice (Arborio or sushi rice for extra creaminess)
  • 4 cups whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup for a natural alternative)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)

Optional Add-ins & Toppings:

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm, spiced flavor)
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)
  • ½ cup raisins (or chocolate chips for a twist)
  • Drizzle of caramel or honey
  • Fresh berries or banana slices
  • Toasted coconut or chopped nuts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base

  1. Rinse the Rice – Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
  2. Combine Ingredients – In a medium saucepan, add the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Cook the Pudding

  1. Bring to a Simmer – Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to bubble, reduce heat to low to prevent burning.
  2. Slow Cook – Simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. The rice should be tender, and the mixture should thicken into a creamy consistency.
  3. Add Flavor – Stir in vanilla extract and butter for extra smoothness. If using, mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or raisins.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency & Serve

  1. Check Thickness – If the pudding is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
  2. Serve & Enjoy – Serve warm for a cozy treat or refrigerate for a chilled dessert. Garnish with fruit, nuts, or caramel drizzle.

Notes

  • For Extra Creaminess: Use half milk and half heavy cream.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with coconut, almond, or oat milk.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Add a splash of milk and stir over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
  • Freezing: Rice pudding can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a little milk before serving.
  • For a Thicker Pudding: Let it cool completely; it will thicken as it sits.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Cuisine: Classic Comfort / Dessert

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Sugar: ~20g
  • Fat: ~6g
  • Carbohydrates: ~40g
  • Protein: ~6g