Discover the rich, velvety flavors of Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding! This beloved dessert captures the essence of comfort with its simple yet satisfying ingredients—rice, milk, sugar, and a delightful blend of warm spices. With an irresistible hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, plus the option to add succulent raisins, this pudding is a taste sensation that evokes feelings of nostalgia with every spoonful.

Effortless to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this dessert can be served warm for a cozy experience or chilled for a refreshing treat. Whether you’re enjoying it solo on a cool evening or sharing it around the table with loved ones, this rice pudding is a guaranteed hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to adore this recipe for its creamy texture and classic flavors. The marriage of tender rice simmered in rich milk, sweetened just right with sugar, and enhanced with vanilla and spices creates a comforting masterpiece. Plus, the addition of raisins offers a lovely chewiness, while a touch of butter elevates it to indulgent levels. Most importantly, it’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Savor it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or enjoy it cold as a refreshing dessert—it’s delicious either way!

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 with 2 cups of milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until the rice is tender and the milk is mostly absorbed, which should take about 20 minutes.
2. Add the remaining milk and sugar: Pour in the remaining 2 cups of milk, along with the 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 a bit and the rice is soft and creamy.
3. Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. Slowly add 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly. This gradual process helps temper the eggs and prevents them from curdling.
4. Combine the egg mixture with the pudding: Carefully pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously. Cook for another 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 and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and raisins (if using). Keep stirring until the butter melts and everything is smoothly combined.
6. Serve and garnish: You can enjoy the rice pudding warm or allow it to chill in the refrigerator before serving. Top it off with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This rice pudding is best served warm for a cozy dessert experience. If you prefer it chilled, simply refrigerate it for a few hours. For an added treat, top it with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries.
• Storage: To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary to reclaim its creamy texture.

Helpful Notes

• If you find the pudding has thickened too much after cooling, simply stir in a little extra milk until you achieve your desired creaminess.
• For a richer taste, consider substituting half of the whole milk with heavy cream for added decadence.
• You can adjust the sweetness level by increasing or decreasing the sugar quantity based on your personal preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use other types of rice; however, the cooking time may differ. Arborio or short-grain rice will create a creamier texture, while jasmine or basmati rice will change the flavor slightly.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. The texture may vary a bit, but the flavor will still be delightful.

3. How can I prevent the pudding from curdling?
To avoid curdling, temper the eggs carefully. Gradually add a small amount of the hot rice mixture to the beaten eggs while whisking continuously. This method will raise the temperature of the eggs slowly.

4. Can I omit the eggs?
Yes, while the eggs enrich the pudding and help it thicken, you can leave them out for a simpler preparation. Just allow the pudding to simmer a bit longer for a thicker consistency.

5. Can I add other flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of cardamom, a splash of rum or brandy, or even a handful of chopped nuts for a unique spin on this classic recipe.