Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Rice Pudding

Ingredients

• ¾ cup uncooked medium-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups water
• 2 cups whole milk (plus more as needed)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
• Raisins or dried fruit (optional, for mixing or topping)

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice:

   In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Pudding Base:

   In the same saucepan with the cooked rice, add the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Stir to combine and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken, about 15 minutes.

3. Add the Egg:

   In a small bowl, whisk the beaten egg. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the hot rice mixture to the egg to temper it, then slowly stir the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Finish the Pudding:

   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. If you like raisins or dried fruit, stir them in at this stage. Adjust the consistency with a splash of milk if the pudding is too thick.

5. Serve:

   Transfer the rice pudding to individual bowls or a large serving dish. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon for garnish if desired. Serve warm for a cozy treat or refrigerate for a chilled dessert.

Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding

• Use Medium-Grain Rice: Medium-grain rice provides the ideal creamy texture for this pudding. Avoid using instant rice for the best results.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring prevents the pudding from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the pudding as you cook and adjust the sugar level to your preference.
• Don’t Overcook: Rice pudding continues to thicken as it cools, so remove it from heat when it’s slightly thinner than your desired consistency.

Creative Variations

• Coconut Rice Pudding: Replace half the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Chocolate Rice Pudding: Stir in ½ cup of melted chocolate or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolaty version.
• Spiced Pudding: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Fruity Toppings: Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of fruit compote for added sweetness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and adjust the liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How long can I store rice pudding?

Store rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

What if my pudding is too thick?

If the pudding thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.

Conclusion

This Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Rice Pudding is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, velvety texture and sweet flavor, it’s a dessert that brings warmth and happiness with every bite. Perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or even a midnight snack, this rice pudding is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Make it today and experience the joy of a timeless classic!