Classic Homemade Rice Pudding

Name: Classic Homemade Rice Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup short-grain rice; 4 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons butter; Optional toppings: raisins, grated nutmeg, or fruit

Highlighted under: Soulful Flavors

I have always had a soft spot for creamy desserts, and this Classic Homemade Rice Pudding brings back the fondest memories of my childhood. The combination of warm, tender rice simmered in milk with just the right amount of sweetness is utterly comforting. We often enjoyed it on chilly evenings, and it’s a recipe that feels just like a cozy hug. The best part is how easy it is to make; it's a dish that requires no fancy ingredients, just simple ones that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:05:36.508Z

Making rice pudding has always been a culinary journey for me. I remember the first time I tried it on a rainy day, and the aroma of cinnamon filled my kitchen—it was enchanting. Using short-grain rice gives it that perfect creamy texture, making each bite delightful. I like to cook it slowly to allow the rice to absorb the milk fully, resulting in a soothing dish that’s perfect for any time of day.

As I experiment with flavors, I discovered that adding a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of nutmeg elevates it immensely. If you want to take it up a notch, I recommend garnishing with some grated chocolate or fresh fruit; it truly enhances the experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making this dish repeatedly, especially for gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly comforting
Versatile toppings to suit any taste
A timeless classic that evokes nostalgia

The Importance of Rice Type

Choosing the right type of rice is crucial for achieving that creamy texture in your rice pudding. Short-grain rice, like Arborio or sushi rice, is ideal because it releases more starch during cooking, resulting in a rich and velvety dessert. Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, is less starchy and may yield a drier pudding. Always rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch if you're using a different variety, but for short-grain, this step is often unnecessary.

If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute a portion of the rice with quinoa. Keep in mind that quinoa has a nuttier flavor and a different texture, so you may need to adjust the milk and sugar slightly to maintain the pudding's classic sweetness and creaminess.

Sweetness and Flavor Adjustments

The sugar and vanilla extract in this recipe are essential for balancing the creaminess of the rice pudding. It's important to taste your mixture towards the end of cooking; this will help you gauge if it needs more sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a couple of tablespoons or consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but add these toward the end to prevent them from altering the cooking temperature.

For those who enjoy a hint of citrus, adding just a teaspoon of grated lemon or orange zest during the cooking process can elevate the flavor, giving it a refreshing twist. Keep in mind that this will also enhance the aroma, making the pudding even more inviting. Always adjust these flavorings to suit your palate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the beauties of rice pudding is its versatility when it comes to storage. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing to prevent excess moisture buildup, which can affect the texture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of additional milk to restore creaminess.

If you want to freeze rice pudding, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. Upon thawing, you might notice some separation; simply stir vigorously and reheat gently, adding a bit more milk as needed. Remember, the texture may differ slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this comforting dish.

Ingredients

1 cup short-grain rice
4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter
Optional toppings: raisins, grated nutmeg, or fruit

Once you have gathered your ingredients, you are ready to create this delightful rice pudding.

Instructions

Here’s how to make Classic Homemade Rice Pudding in a few simple steps.

Cook the Rice

In a large saucepan, combine the rice, 1 cup of milk, and the salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the remaining milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Cook uncovered over low heat, stirring frequently, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency.

Finish with Butter

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter until melted. If you like, you can add raisins for a burst of flavor.

Serve Warm or Chilled

Serve the rice pudding warm or cool it down in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. Top with additional cinnamon, nutmeg, or your favorite fruits before serving.

Enjoy your delightful rice pudding either warm or chilled!

Pro Tips

For an extra creaminess, allow the pudding to sit for a few minutes off the heat, covered. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. You can also experiment with different spices to personalize it further.

Serving Suggestions

Serving rice pudding can be as creative as you wish. I love adding a dollop of whipped cream on top, which makes it extra decadent. For a more traditional approach, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg right before serving enhances the flavors beautifully. You might also consider a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for those who prefer a sweeter touch.

If you want to present the pudding as a showstopper, consider layering it in individual glasses with your choice of toppings like fresh berries or caramelized fruits. This not only makes it visually appealing but also adds different textures to each bite, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Common Troubleshooting

If your rice pudding turns out too runny, it could mean that it simply needs more time to cook uncovered. Allow it to simmer a bit longer; just keep stirring to prevent it from sticking. If you're in a pinch and need to thicken it quickly, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of cold milk, then stir it into the pudding and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.

On the other hand, if your pudding is too thick once cooled, you can easily fix this by adding a little warm milk and gently stirring it back to your preferred consistency. Remember to do this gradually to avoid making it too soupy. These adjustments will help you achieve the perfect texture every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk, but it may alter the flavor and creaminess slightly. Ensure to choose the unsweetened version for best results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk (like coconut or soy milk) and substitute the butter with a vegan alternative.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Beyond raisins, you can decorate with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, toasted almonds, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent touch.