Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Ingredients
-
¾ cup uncooked white rice (short or medium grain preferred)
-
1½ cups water
-
2 cups whole milk (plus more if needed)
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
¼ tsp salt
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
-
¼ cup raisins (optional)
-
1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice:
-
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
-
Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
2. Add Milk and Sugar:
-
Add the milk, sugar, and salt to the cooked rice.
-
Cook uncovered over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
-
Simmer gently for 30–35 minutes, until the mixture thickens to a creamy, pudding-like consistency.
3. Finish and Flavor:
-
Once thickened, remove from heat.
-
Stir in vanilla extract and butter (if using).
-
Add cinnamon and raisins if desired.
4. Serve:
-
Serve warm or chilled.
-
Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving if desired.
Notes
-
For creamier pudding: Use a mix of milk and cream, or add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
-
To thin pudding: Stir in a little extra milk when reheating or if it becomes too thick after chilling.
-
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Would you like a baked version, a dairy-free alternative, or one with eggs for extra richness?