If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dessert that’s easy to whip up, then this easy rice pudding recipe is for you! Rice pudding is a timeless dish enjoyed by people around the world. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and creamy dessert that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you enjoy it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chilled as a sweet snack, this rice pudding is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What Is Rice Pudding?
Rice pudding is a creamy dessert made from rice, milk, sugar, and flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon. It’s a comforting dish that’s been enjoyed for centuries across different cultures. Some variations are served warm, while others are chilled. The texture can range from smooth and creamy to thick and custard-like, depending on the type of rice and cooking method used.
Rice pudding
Difficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes30
minutes250
kcalThis classic rice pudding recipe is creamy, comforting, and easy to make with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a cozy dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.
Ingredients
1 cup of rice (short grain or medium grain preferred)
4 cups of whole milk
½ cup of sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cinnamon stick
¼ tsp salt
Optional toppings: ground cinnamon, raisins, or whipped cream
Directions
- Prepare the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
- Add Milk and Flavoring: Stir in the milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Simmer: Let the mixture cook on low heat for another 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is soft and creamy.
- Add Vanilla: Once the pudding reaches your desired creaminess, remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve: Serve warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or raisins if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, according to your taste.
- The pudding thickens as it cools, so consider adding more milk for a creamier texture if you plan to chill it.
Tips for the Best Rice Pudding
- Choose the Right Rice: Use short-grain or medium-grain rice for the creamiest texture. Arborio rice also works great for an extra creamy pudding.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Simmer the pudding on low heat and stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Customize Your Sweetener: Swap out white sugar for brown sugar or honey for a different flavor profile.
- Toppings Matter: Get creative with your toppings! Fresh berries, toasted coconut, or even a drizzle of caramel can elevate this easy rice pudding recipe.
- Creaminess Level: If you want a thinner pudding, add a little more milk during cooking. For a thicker, richer texture, let it cook a bit longer.
Recipe Variants
- Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding: Add a scraped vanilla bean pod for a more intense vanilla flavor.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Rice Pudding: Stir in ½ cup of cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a chocolatey treat.
- Rice Pudding with Berries: Add fresh or frozen berries during the last few minutes of cooking for a fruity burst.
- Maple Pecan Rice Pudding: Drizzle with maple syrup and top with toasted pecans for a fall-inspired version.
- Baked Rice Pudding: Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
How to Store Rice Pudding
To store rice pudding, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra milk to loosen the texture, as rice pudding tends to thicken when cold.
Can We Freeze Rice Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze rice pudding! To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, and the texture will be less creamy compared to white rice.
Absolutely! You can use alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute.
As rice pudding cools, it thickens. To fix this, add a splash of milk while reheating to loosen it up.
This rice pudding recipe proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients can make the most satisfying dishes. Whether you’re sharing it with family or indulging on your own, this creamy dessert will never disappoint. So, the next time you’re craving something sweet and comforting, give this easy rice pudding recipe a try. It’s bound to become a favorite!
If you are banana lover try our Easy Banana Pudding Recipe: A No-Bake Delight in Just 15 Minutes!
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