Description
This classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding recipe offers a creamy, comforting dessert made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, and cinnamon. Slow-cooked on the stovetop, it delivers a luscious texture enhanced with golden raisins and a hint of vanilla, perfect served warm.
Ingredients
Rice Base
- ¾ cup rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Milk and Flavorings
- 2 cups milk (divided)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup golden raisins (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, combine the water, rice, and salt, then bring to a boil. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Let it cook for 15 minutes or until all the water is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Add Milk and Sugar: Remove the lid and stir in 1.5 cups of milk along with the sugar. Increase the heat to medium and continue to cook while stirring frequently for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens to a creamy, non-watery consistency.
- Incorporate Egg Mixture and Spices: In a small bowl, whisk the remaining ½ cup milk together with the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the rice pudding, then add the golden raisins and ground cinnamon. Stir continuously and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to thicken further.
- Finish with Butter and Serve: Remove the pudding from heat and stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted and incorporated for a rich finish. Serve the rice pudding warm for the best comforting experience.
Notes
- Use short or medium grain rice for best creamy texture.
- For a vegan version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives and omit the egg yolk.
- Adjust sugar to taste or use alternative sweeteners.
- Golden raisins add a nice sweetness and texture but can be omitted if preferred.
- Rice pudding can be served chilled but is traditionally enjoyed warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
