This timeless dessert combines creamy rice, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness, making it the perfect cozy treat for the holiday season or any occasion.
Did You Know?
Rice pudding dates back thousands of years, with versions found in nearly every culture. From Indian kheer to British rice pudding, it’s a global comfort food loved for its simplicity and versatility.
Yield
6 servings
Ingredients
1 cup uncooked white rice (short or medium-grain for creaminess)
4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and simmer on low heat, covered, for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Base
- Add the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt to the cooked rice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the rice is tender, about 20–25 minutes.
Step 3: Flavor the Pudding
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- If using raisins, fold them in at this stage for a burst of sweetness.
Step 4: Serve Warm or Cold
- Serve the rice pudding warm, or chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for a firmer texture. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 260, Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 44g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 43g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 25mg, Sodium: 110mg, Sugars: 21g, Glycemic Index: Medium
How This Rice Pudding Will Look and Taste
This rice pudding has a creamy, velvety texture with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, making it wonderfully aromatic and flavorful. It’s speckled with tender grains of rice and optional golden raisins, topped with a light dusting of cinnamon for a warm, inviting look.
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Use leftover rice to save time; just adjust cooking time for texture.
- Swap whole milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add a touch of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Sprinkle with toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios for added crunch.
- Double the batch for meal prepping—a great breakfast or snack!
- Use short or medium-grain rice for the creamiest consistency.
- Sweeten with honey or maple syrup for a natural sugar alternative.
- Stir in chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for variety.
- Avoid burning by stirring constantly and using low heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Let’s Learn About Rice in Pudding
The type of rice used in pudding matters! Short and medium-grain rice releases more starch, creating the creamy texture that makes rice pudding so irresistible. Arborio rice (used in risotto) is also a great choice for its high starch content. Long-grain rice can work, but it won’t be as creamy. Cooking the rice slowly and stirring frequently helps bring out its natural creaminess, ensuring a luscious dessert every time!