If you’re craving a comforting, creamy dessert that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Easy Rice Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. Made with simple ingredients you probably already have, this classic treat combines tender rice and luscious milk infused with vanilla, creating the perfect sweet finish to any meal. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, it’s effortless to make, endlessly satisfying, and sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this luscious rice pudding, you’ll gather just a handful of wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to deliver rich flavor, velvety texture, and a hint of sweetness. Each component plays a vital role in making this dessert truly memorable.
- 8 cups whole milk: The creamy base that gives the pudding its richness and smooth mouthfeel.
- 1 cup raw medium-grain white rice: Provides a tender, slightly chewy texture perfect for absorbing flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 vanilla bean (split) or 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant aroma that makes the pudding irresistible.
- 1/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the pudding to just the right level without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Boosts the creamy richness and adds a subtle silky finish.
How to Make Easy Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in a Large Saucepan
Start by pouring the whole milk into a large saucepan and add the rice, kosher salt, split vanilla bean (if using), and sugar. Keep the vanilla extract on hold for now if that’s your choice because it will be added later to preserve its delicate flavor. Stir it all together and get ready for the magic to begin.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Boil
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. It’s important to stir frequently during this stage to prevent the milk from scorching at the bottom and to help the rice begin absorbing the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Reduce Heat and Simmer Covered
Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the saucepan. Let the pudding cook for 15 minutes, giving it an occasional stir to keep everything moving smoothly. This step starts transforming those grains of rice into a creamy base.
Step 4: Uncover and Continue Cooking While Stirring
Remove the lid and continue simmering the pudding on low heat until the rice becomes tender and the volume reduces to about 3 1/2 cups. Stir constantly at this stage to avoid any sticking or burning as the pudding thickens and reaches that perfect consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Vanilla and Butter
Once cooked, fish out the vanilla bean pod and scoop out its fragrant seeds to return them to the pudding. If you’re using vanilla extract instead, stir it in now along with the butter. This final addition enriches the flavor and delivers that irresistible creamy sheen.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Transfer your freshly made rice pudding into a serving bowl and cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap to stop a skin from forming. Chill it for at least one hour or, even better, let it rest overnight. You can also serve it warm straight from the stove for cozy comfort.
How to Serve Easy Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your pudding with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note that complements the vanilla. Fresh berries or a handful of toasted nuts add delightful texture and a pop of color, while a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce amps up the sweetness in an elegant way.
Side Dishes
This creamy bowl of goodness pairs wonderfully with a crisp cup of black coffee or a soothing herbal tea for a cozy afternoon break. It also makes a lovely light dessert alongside fresh fruit salad or a slice of tangy lemon tart to balance its richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pudding in individual glass jars for a charming, rustic look perfect for parties or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Layer it with fruit compote or granola for a textured parfait, or dollop with whipped cream and a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings to add a touch of decadence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because the pudding thickens as it cools, give it a good stir before serving to bring back that velvety smoothness.
Freezing
Freezing this pudding is not recommended as the texture often suffers when thawed. For the best taste and consistency, enjoy fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Reheating
To reheat your rice pudding, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it in short bursts. Add a splash of milk to loosen it up and stir frequently to maintain that creamy texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
While medium-grain white rice works best for a creamy texture, you can experiment with short-grain rice, which also becomes tender and sticky. Avoid long-grain varieties since they tend to stay separate and less creamy.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute whole milk with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk to enjoy a dairy-free version. Keep in mind the flavor and creaminess will vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious and creamy.
Is it necessary to use a vanilla bean?
No, vanilla extract works just as well and is more convenient, but a vanilla bean provides a richer, more natural vanilla flavor and little flecks that look beautiful in the pudding.
Can I add spices to this Easy Rice Pudding Recipe?
Absolutely! Cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cardamom can be added while cooking to infuse the pudding with warm, complex flavors that elevate the classic base.
How thick should the pudding be before chilling?
The pudding should be creamy and slightly thickened but still pourable before chilling. It will firm up more as it cools, so keep it a bit looser right off the stove.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Easy Rice Pudding Recipe. It’s a humble dessert that feels indulgent and soothing every time you eat it. Whether you’re making it for a simple family treat or an elegant finale for dinner guests, I can’t recommend this recipe enough — it’s straightforward, delicious, and deeply satisfying. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes your go-to dessert for any occasion.
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Easy Rice Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This easy rice pudding recipe creates a creamy, comforting dessert made with simple ingredients like whole milk, medium-grain rice, and vanilla. It’s cooked slowly on the stovetop, resulting in a luscious pudding that can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Perfect for a cozy treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 cups whole milk
- 1 cup raw medium-grain white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 vanilla bean (split) or 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, add the whole milk, raw medium-grain rice, kosher salt, and sugar over medium heat. If using a split vanilla bean, add it now; if using vanilla extract, wait until the end of cooking.
- Bring to Boil: Stir the mixture frequently as you bring it to a boil to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer Covered: Reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the rice from sticking.
- Continue Cooking Uncovered: Remove the lid and simmer uncovered, stirring constantly to avoid burning, until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened and reduced to approximately 3 1/2 cups.
- Remove Vanilla Bean: If you used a vanilla bean, fish it out and scrape the seeds into the pudding for maximum flavor.
- Finish the Pudding: Turn off the heat and stir in the unsalted butter along with the vanilla bean seeds or the vanilla extract if you did not use a bean earlier.
- Prevent Skin Formation: Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming as it cools.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Enjoy your rice pudding warm or chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- Stirring frequently during cooking is essential to prevent the milk and rice from burning and sticking to the pan.
- If you don’t have a vanilla bean, vanilla extract works well as a suitable substitute added at the end of cooking.
- For creamier texture, you can substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
- To vary the flavor, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg during cooking or top with fresh fruit before serving.
- Leftover rice pudding can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
