This comforting homemade rice pudding brings back memories of childhood with its rich, creamy texture and warm spices. Perfect for dessert or a cozy breakfast, this traditional recipe creates a deliciously satisfying treat that’s loved by all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Rice Pudding
This old-fashioned rice pudding recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and aromatic spices. The slow-cooking method ensures each grain of rice becomes tender while creating a luxuriously thick, custard-like consistency. It’s an ideal comfort food that can be served warm on cold days or chilled as a refreshing dessert.
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
Step 1: Start the Base Add the rice, 3 cups of milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Step 2: Cook Until Tender Lower the heat and let the mixture cook slowly for 25-30 minutes. Stir frequently during this time to ensure even cooking. The rice should become tender and the mixture will develop a thick, creamy consistency.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture While the rice cooks, whisk the remaining 1 cup of milk with the eggs in a small bowl until completely smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add the Eggs Slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan while stirring constantly. This gradual addition prevents the eggs from scrambling. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the pudding thickens further.
Step 5: Finish and Serve Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and raisins if desired. Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle extra cinnamon on top for the perfect finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile rice pudding tastes wonderful both warm and chilled. Serve it immediately for a comforting warm dessert, or refrigerate for several hours to enjoy as a cool, refreshing treat. Consider topping with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
Store leftover rice pudding in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pudding will thicken as it cools, so you can thin it with a splash of milk when reheating if desired. Gently warm individual portions in the microwave or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.
Recipe Tips for Success
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and achieve the smoothest texture
- Add the egg mixture slowly while stirring to create a silky, custard-like consistency
- Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more or less sugar according to your preference
This timeless rice pudding recipe creates a dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying, making it perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
