Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of warm, creamy rice pudding. It instantly evokes memories of childhood, cozy kitchens, and simple desserts made with love. Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is one of those timeless treats that feels like a hug in a bowl, with just the right amount of sweetness, warmth, and that familiar aroma of vanilla and cinnamon.

Whether you grew up eating this classic or you’re trying it for the first time, this version brings all the richness and nostalgic flavor you expect. It’s made with pantry staples and takes just a little patience, but the result is so worth it. Perfectly soft rice suspended in a creamy custard, it’s the kind of dessert that soothes and satisfies.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

This pudding is all about texture and flavor. It’s thick, creamy, and not too sweet, which makes it ideal for any time of the day. It can be served warm straight from the stove or chilled from the fridge. Plus, it doesn’t need fancy ingredients or special equipment. It’s one of those recipes you can always count on to bring a sense of home and comfort.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

The best rice to use for this recipe is medium-grain white rice. It provides the perfect balance of creaminess and chew. You can also use Arborio rice for a silkier, richer finish. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice as it tends to break down too quickly and can become mushy.

Ingredients for the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

This recipe calls for simple ingredients, but each one plays a key role in making the pudding creamy, flavorful, and delicious.

  • Medium-grain white rice
  • Whole milk
  • Granulated sugar
  • Salt
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Raisins (optional but traditional and adds sweetness and texture)
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How To Make the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Step 1: Simmer the Rice

In a large saucepan, combine the rice, a pinch of salt, and water. Cook over medium heat until the rice is tender and most of the water is absorbed.

Step 2: Add the Milk

Stir in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Keep the heat low to avoid scorching and stir occasionally. Let it cook until the mixture starts to thicken and the rice is very soft.

Step 3: Sweeten and Thicken

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar. Slowly add a bit of the hot milk mixture to the eggs to temper them, then pour everything back into the saucepan. Continue cooking while stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens into a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Flavor and Finish

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and raisins (if using). Let the pudding sit for a few minutes to cool slightly and thicken further.

How to Serve and Store This Pudding

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Serve it warm right after cooking for that fresh-off-the-stove comfort or chill it for a cool, custardy dessert. Either way, a sprinkle of cinnamon on top makes it extra inviting.

This recipe serves about 6 people. To store, place leftover pudding in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just stir in a splash of milk when reheating.

What to Serve With Old Fashioned Rice Pudding?

A Dollop of Whipped Cream

A fluffy topping of whipped cream adds a light contrast to the dense, creamy pudding.

Stewed Apples or Pears

Warm fruit brings a bit of tartness and a lovely texture contrast.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can balance the richness of the pudding.

Toasted Nuts

Try slivered almonds or chopped pecans for a crunch.

A Drizzle of Caramel or Maple Syrup

A little drizzle goes a long way for added sweetness and flavor depth.

Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle

Just a simple mix of cinnamon and sugar dusted on top gives a nice nostalgic touch.

Biscotti or Shortbread Cookies

Add something crunchy on the side to dip or snack with the pudding.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Cozy Twist?

If Old Fashioned Rice Pudding hits the spot, you’ll love these other comforting favorites:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add raisins or skip them? Serve it warm or chilled?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Feel free to share any twists you tried or questions you have. We’re in this together when it comes to comfort food.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding brings back memories, satisfies dessert cravings, and is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most rewarding. Whether you eat it warm by the fireplace or chilled on a sunny day, this timeless treat is always a good idea.

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Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding


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  • Author: Zoe Adelson
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made with simple pantry staples like milk, eggs, rice, and vanilla. Perfect for cozy nights or chilled as a refreshing treat, this traditional rice pudding recipe delivers nostalgic flavor and silky texture. Ideal for meal prep, holidays, or anytime you crave a classic sweet.


Ingredients

3/4 cup medium-grain white rice

2 cups water

4 cups whole milk

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup raisins (optional)


Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until rice is tender and water is mostly absorbed, about 15 minutes.

2. Stir in the milk and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to thicken and rice is very soft, about 20 minutes.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with sugar. Slowly add a bit of the hot rice mixture to the eggs to temper, then return the mixture to the saucepan.

4. Cook over low heat while stirring constantly until the pudding thickens and becomes creamy, around 5–7 minutes.

5. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and raisins if using.

6. Let pudding cool slightly before serving warm, or refrigerate for a chilled dessert. Stir in a splash of milk if it thickens too much after cooling.

Notes

This pudding thickens as it cools, so don’t overcook.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to taste.

Raisins are traditional, but feel free to leave them out or replace with dried cranberries or chopped dates.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
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