Description
This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made by gently simmering cooked rice in whole milk, with sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla for classic warm flavors. The pudding is thickened with eggs for a rich texture and optionally enhanced with sweet raisins. Perfect served warm or chilled, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s simple to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Flavorings and Sweeteners
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Simmer Rice and Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of cooked white rice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Add Sugar and Spices: Stir in 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Temper the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to temper the eggs, preventing them from scrambling.
- Incorporate Eggs and Thicken: Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat until the pudding thickens and becomes creamy.
- Finish the Pudding: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Fold in 1/3 cup raisins if using, to add bursts of sweetness.
- Serve: Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled according to preference. Optionally, sprinkle extra cinnamon on top before serving for a beautiful aromatic touch.
Notes
- Use cooked white rice for best texture; leftover rice works well.
- Tempering eggs is crucial to avoid curdling.
- Raisins can be omitted or substituted with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates.
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on preference for sweetness.
- Rice pudding thickens more as it cools; add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.
