If you’re craving a warm, sweet, and creamy dessert, Classic Rice Pudding is a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, this old-fashioned treat delivers a rich, silky texture and comforting flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy evenings, or whenever you want something homemade and delicious.
Ingredients: You’ll need 1 cup of Arborio or short-grain white rice, 4 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, ¾ cup of sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of butter. For extra richness, add 2 egg yolks. Optional additions include raisins, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or orange zest.
Instructions: Rinse the rice, then simmer it in 2 cups of water for about 15 minutes. Add the milk, cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium-low heat for 30–35 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens. Stir in the butter and vanilla. If using egg yolks, temper them with a little hot pudding before adding, then cook for another 2–3 minutes without boiling. Mix in any optional ingredients you like.
Serve your pudding warm or chilled after refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Finish with cinnamon, whipped cream, fresh berries, caramel drizzle, or toasted nuts. ❤️ For the creamiest results, use short-grain rice, stir often, and add a splash of milk if it becomes too thick. Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Enjoy this delicious homemade classic!