If you have a craving for something soulful, sweet, and satisfyingly silky, this Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe is just the ticket. The gentle simmering of tender rice combined with rich whole milk, a touch of sugar, and an egg creates a luscious dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every spoonful offers a velvety texture and subtle hints of vanilla and cinnamon, making this dish a beloved classic comfort food that’s simple yet unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward ingredients is key for this recipe; each one plays an important role to create that perfect creamy texture and balanced sweetness that make this dish so special.
- 3/4 cup uncooked medium-grain white rice: The foundation of our pudding, medium-grain rice cooks up tender yet retains a slight bite for great texture.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Water helps soften the rice in the first cooking stage, essential before adding the creamy elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just enough salt to enhance all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- 4 cups whole milk (divided): Creamy whole milk enriches the pudding, contributing to smoothness and depth.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness, balancing the rice’s mildness.
- 1 large egg: Whisked in to give the pudding a silky finish and slightly thickened consistency.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a luxurious richness and helps round out the pudding’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the pudding with a warm, inviting aroma and gentle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy, spicy touch perfect for topping or stirring in.
- Raisins or chopped dried fruit (optional): For a burst of chewiness and extra flavor contrast.
How to Make Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by combining the rice, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat, then turn the heat down low, cover, and simmer gently. After about 15 minutes, the water will mostly absorb, and the rice will be tender but not mushy. This initial cooking gives the rice a perfect base texture before we transform it into pudding.
Step 2: Add Milk and Sugar
Next, stir in 3 cups of the whole milk along with the granulated sugar. Keep the saucepan uncovered and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently. This stage takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes as the mixture thickens and the rice absorbs the sweet, creamy milk. This slow cooking is essential for developing that classic pudding creaminess.
Step 3: Temper the Egg and Combine
In a small bowl, whisk the remaining 1 cup of milk together with the egg until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the hot rice pudding while stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the egg. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 more minutes to let everything meld perfectly. This step transforms the rice pudding’s texture into something truly silky and luxurious.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Vanilla
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. The butter enriches the pudding with a soft, velvety feel, while the vanilla lifts the aroma and flavor, making the whole dish smell and taste inviting and warm.
How to Serve Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches take your Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe from delicious to unforgettable. A light sprinkle of cinnamon adds a warm, spicy aroma that embraces the sweetness perfectly. For some chewy contrast, scatter a handful of raisins or chopped dried fruits on top—these little bursts of flavor add extra dimension to each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve your rice pudding alongside fresh fruit slices such as bananas or berries for a refreshing balance. A cup of rich coffee or a spiced chai also pairs wonderfully, complementing the creamy sweetness and cozy spices in the pudding.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your rice pudding in individual ramekins or pretty glass jars layered with fruit compote or toasted nuts. This presentation not only looks beautiful but adds textures and flavors that everyone will talk about. You can also swirl in a spoonful of jam or a dash of nutmeg for a unique finishing touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe can be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of its rich dairy content, it’s best kept chilled and eaten within this timeframe for optimum taste and freshness.
Freezing
While it’s possible to freeze rice pudding, the texture may change slightly once thawed, becoming grainier. If you do choose to freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and use within 1 month for best quality.
Reheating
To warm up leftover pudding, gently microwave it in short bursts or reheat in a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk if the pudding has thickened too much, helping restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Medium-grain rice works well for a balanced texture, but using arborio rice can create an even creamier pudding. Avoid long-grain rice as it tends to be too fluffy and won’t hold the pudding’s silky consistency.
Is it necessary to use whole milk?
Whole milk gives the pudding its rich, creamy flavor and texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream if you want it even richer. Lower fat milk will yield a thinner pudding but still tasty.
How long does it take to cook this Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe?
The total cooking time is about 40 to 45 minutes, which includes simmering the rice and slow cooking the milk mixture for perfect thickness. Patience during this process makes all the difference!
Can I make this pudding vegan or dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try substituting the whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk and use a plant-based butter alternative. Replace the egg with a cornstarch slurry or silken tofu to maintain creaminess.
Should I serve the pudding warm or chilled?
This pudding is delicious both ways! Warm pudding offers a cozy, comforting feel especially on chilly days, while chilled pudding is refreshing and perfect for warmer weather or as a make-ahead treat.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of homemade rice pudding, especially this Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe that balances simplicity with luxurious taste so effortlessly. I encourage you to try making it soon—it’s easy to prepare, delightful to share, and bound to become one of your favorite go-to desserts whenever you want a little sweet comfort in life.
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Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Rice Pudding recipe is a classic comfort dessert made by simmering rice in milk and sugar until tender and thickened to a luscious consistency. Enhanced with vanilla and butter, this pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled, and optionally garnished with cinnamon and dried fruit for added flavor and texture. It’s a simple, satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 cup uncooked medium-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups whole milk, divided
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Raisins or chopped dried fruit
Instructions
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Simmer with milk and sugar: Stir in 3 cups of the milk and the granulated sugar into the cooked rice. Cook uncovered over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 20 to 25 minutes. Continue until the mixture thickens into a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate egg mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of milk and the egg. Slowly pour this mixture into the hot rice while stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while stirring to thicken and cook the egg safely.
- Finish and flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled. Optionally, sprinkle with ground cinnamon and top with raisins or chopped dried fruit as desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute part of the milk with half-and-half or cream.
- Using arborio rice instead of medium-grain white rice will create an even creamier texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
