Rice pudding is a classic dessert that’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. Using simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, this dish is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a timeless treat loved by all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Requires minimal effort and uses pantry staples.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain or customize with your favorite mix-ins like raisins, cinnamon, or fresh fruit.
- Comfort Food: Warm, creamy, and nostalgic—a perfect dessert or snack.
- Great for Leftovers: Ideal for using up leftover rice from previous meals.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked rice
- Whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt.
- Cook the Mixture: Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, or let it cool and refrigerate for at least 2 hours if you prefer it chilled.
- Optional Garnishes: Top with cinnamon, nutmeg, or your favorite fruits before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Raisin Rice Pudding: Add a handful of raisins while the mixture cooks for extra sweetness.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Use coconut milk in place of regular milk for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Rice Pudding: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Chocolate Rice Pudding: Stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent dessert.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk for a vegan-friendly option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up cooked rice from previous meals.
2. What type of rice is best for rice pudding?
Short-grain or medium-grain rice is ideal because it becomes creamy when cooked, but long-grain rice can also be used.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond, coconut, or oat milk.
4. How do I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pan?
Stir frequently while cooking and use a nonstick or heavy-bottomed saucepan.
5. Can I sweeten rice pudding with something other than sugar?
Yes, honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar are great alternatives. Adjust to taste.
6. How can I make rice pudding thicker?
Cook it longer to reduce the liquid, or use a bit less milk. You can also add a whisked egg or cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.
7. Is rice pudding served warm or cold?
Both! It’s delicious warm as a cozy dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat.
8. Can I add other flavors to rice pudding?
Absolutely! Try almond extract, lemon zest, or orange blossom water for unique flavors.
9. How long does it take for rice pudding to thicken?
It typically takes about 15–20 minutes of simmering over medium heat.
10. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients, but make sure to use a larger saucepan to prevent overflow.
Conclusion
Easy rice pudding is a classic dessert that’s rich, creamy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it plain, spiced, or with your favorite toppings, it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this simple recipe today and indulge in a sweet treat that never goes out of style!
PrintEasy Rice Pudding
This creamy and comforting rice pudding is a classic dessert made with just a few simple ingredients. It’s lightly sweetened and flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it warm or chilled, plain or with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (short or long grain)
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups whole milk, divided
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or other dried fruits (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a separate large saucepan, combine the cooked rice, 3 cups of milk, sugar, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in the remaining 1 cup of milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if using).
- If desired, add raisins or other dried fruits.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Serve warm or transfer to a container, cover, and refrigerate to serve chilled later.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
- Top with fresh fruits, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving for added flavor and texture.