Rice Pudding

Imagine the comforting aroma of creamy rice pudding wafting through your kitchen, evoking memories of cozy evenings.

This simple, yet indulgent dessert is a breeze to whip up, and its velvety texture makes it a beloved favorite.

As the rice simmers and the milk thickens, magic happens—transforming basic ingredients into a luscious treat.

Let’s bring this heartwarming dish to life and savor every spoonful of its delightful warmth.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 medium saucepan
• 1 wooden spoon
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 measuring spoon
• 1 serving bowl

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time when preparing and cooking rice pudding, you can follow this timeline:

1. Preparation (10 minutes)
   • 0:00-0:05 minutes: Gather all equipment and ingredients.
   • 0:05-0:10 minutes: Rinse the rice and measure out all ingredients.
2. Cooking (40 minutes)
   • 0:10-0:12 minutes: Bring water to a boil in the medium saucepan.
   • 0:12-0:15 minutes: Stir in rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer.
   • 0:15-0:30 minutes: Let rice simmer for 15 minutes until tender and water is absorbed.
   • 0:30-0:55 minutes: Stir in milk and sugar, increase heat to medium, and cook uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
3. Final Steps (after cooking)
   • 0:55-1:00 minutes: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon, and add raisins if using.
   • 1:00-1:10 minutes: Transfer pudding to a serving bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
4. Additional Time (Reading or Adjustments)
   • Take a few minutes before starting to read through the recipe instructions thoroughly to guarantee a smooth cooking process.
   • If any adjustments are needed for sweetness or thickness, allocate an extra 5 minutes during the cooking time.

Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.

Recipe Instructions

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.

Stir in the rice and salt, then reduce the heat to low and cover.

Simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.

Stir in the milk and sugar, then increase the heat to medium.

Cook uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.

If using, add raisins and stir until evenly distributed.

Transfer the pudding to a serving bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Tips

• Fresh Berries: Top the rice pudding with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy and indulgent treat.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pudding for a rich, sweet contrast.
• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Coconut Flakes: Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist and added texture.

Storage

To store rice pudding, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Freezing

To freeze rice pudding, let it cool completely.

Then, transfer to an airtight container.

Label with the date, and freeze for up to three months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To reheat rice pudding, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Final Thoughts

Rice pudding is a classic dessert enjoyed by many cultures around the world.

It’s simple to make and offers a comforting, creamy texture that appeals to all ages.

Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist with ingredients like raisins or spices, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Remember to stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your homemade rice pudding warm or chilled, and consider serving it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

You can substitute brown rice, but adjust cooking time. Simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender, as brown rice requires longer to soften. Maintain liquid ratios, ensuring adequate moisture absorption. Flavor and texture will differ slightly from white rice.

What Can I Substitute for Whole Milk?

You can substitute whole milk with 1 cup of heavy cream mixed with 3 cups of water for a similar richness. Alternatively, use 4 cups of almond milk for a dairy-free option, maintaining consistency and flavor.

How Can I Make Dairy-Free Rice Pudding?

To make dairy-free pudding, replace whole milk with almond or coconut milk in equal measure. Maintain creamy texture by simmering longer if needed. Use non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream for richness. Adjust sweetness with your preferred sweetener.

Can I Add Other Spices to the Pudding?

Yes, you can enhance flavor by incorporating spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves. Start with 1/8 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish. Adjust to taste, ensuring spices are evenly distributed for a balanced flavor profile.

What Toppings Pair Well With Rice Pudding?

You can enhance your dish with 20 grams of toasted almonds, 15 grams of shredded coconut, or 30 grams of fresh berries. For a decadent touch, drizzle 10 milliliters of caramel or chocolate sauce for an exquisite finish.

Rice Pudding

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dessert

Cuisine International

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• 1 Medium saucepan
• 1 Wooden spoon
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 Measuring spoon
• 1 serving bowl

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup raisins optional

Instructions

 

• In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
• Stir in the rice and salt, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
• Simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
• Stir in the milk and sugar, then increase the heat to medium.
• Cook uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.
• If using, add raisins and stir until evenly distributed.
• Transfer the pudding to a serving bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use whole milk for a rich and creamy texture. Stir the pudding consistently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If you prefer a thicker pudding, let it cook for an additional 5 minutes while stirring continuously. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.