Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

Indulge in the creamy, comforting flavors of Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding! This classic dessert is made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and warm spices, creating a rich and velvety treat that’s perfect for any time of year. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the option to add plump raisins, this pudding is as nostalgic as it is delicious. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for serving warm or chilled, making it a versatile dessert that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dessert to enjoy on a cool evening or a sweet treat to share, this rice pudding is sure to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its creamy texture and classic flavor. The combination of tender rice simmered in milk, sweetened with sugar, and flavored with vanilla and spices makes it a comforting and satisfying dessert. The addition of raisins adds a delightful chewiness, while the hint of butter gives it a rich, indulgent finish. Best of all, it’s a one-pot dessert that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Serve it warm, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of milk. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the milk is mostly absorbed, about 20 minutes.
2. Add the remaining milk and sugar: Stir in the remaining 2 cups of milk, granulated sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Continue to simmer over low heat, stirring frequently, for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly and the rice is soft and creamy.
3. Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to temper them and prevent curdling.
4. Combine the egg mixture with the pudding: Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pudding thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
5. Add the butter, vanilla, and raisins: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and raisins (if using) until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Serve and garnish: Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled, topped with an extra sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve this rice pudding warm for a cozy dessert, or refrigerate it for a few hours to enjoy it cold. Top with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries for an added touch.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.

Helpful Notes

• If the pudding becomes too thick after cooling, add a little extra milk and stir until creamy.
• For a more decadent version, substitute half of the whole milk with heavy cream.
• You can easily adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar to suit your taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Arborio rice or short-grain rice will yield a creamier texture, while jasmine or basmati rice will have a slightly different flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk as a substitute for whole milk. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

3. How can I prevent the pudding from curdling?
Temper the eggs carefully by slowly adding a small amount of the hot rice mixture to the beaten eggs while whisking constantly. This will gradually raise the temperature of the eggs and prevent them from scrambling.

4. Can I omit the eggs?
Yes, the eggs add richness and help thicken the pudding, but you can leave them out for a simpler version. Just simmer the pudding a little longer to reach your desired consistency.

5. Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cardamom, a splash of rum or brandy, or a handful of chopped nuts for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a classic dessert that’s comforting, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, warm spices, and hint of sweetness, it’s a treat that will transport you back to simpler times. Serve it warm or cold, with or without raisins, and enjoy every spoonful of this timeless favorite. Happy cooking!