Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a warm, creamy, comforting dessert made with simple pantry ingredients. It cooks slowly until the rice becomes tender and the mixture thickens into a rich, silky pudding that tastes just like the classic versions from childhood.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (preferably medium grain)
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Cook the rice
In a medium saucepan bring the water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
2. Combine dairy and sugar
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.
3. Add cooked rice
Stir the cooked rice into the hot milk mixture. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring often so it does not stick. The mixture will begin to thicken.
4. Temper the eggs
In a small bowl whisk the eggs. Scoop out a small amount of the hot rice mixture and whisk it into the eggs to slowly raise their temperature. Then pour the tempered eggs back into the pot. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes to prevent curdling.
5. Add flavorings
Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins if using. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 more minutes until the pudding is thick and creamy.
6. Serve
Remove from heat. You can serve warm, or let it cool and thicken further in the refrigerator. Sprinkle extra cinnamon on top before serving if desired.
