There’s something timeless and heartwarming about a bowl of Homemade Rice Pudding. This classic dessert is smooth, creamy, and delicately sweet, with just the right touch of vanilla and cinnamon. Whether served warm on a cozy evening or chilled on a summer afternoon, it’s pure comfort in every spoonful. I made this version using whole milk and a dash of nutmeg, and the result was rich, fragrant, and perfectly balanced. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Homemade Rice Pudding is everything a comforting dessert should be—creamy, aromatic, and easy to make with pantry staples. Unlike store-bought versions, this one has the perfect balance of sweetness and texture: tender rice suspended in a velvety custard-like base. You can enjoy it warm, chilled, or even flavored with raisins, coconut, or caramel. It’s a versatile dessert that works for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
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Homemade Rice Pudding – A Creamy, Comforting Classic Dessert
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla. It’s rich, smooth, and delicately sweet with a hint of cinnamon — perfect served warm or chilled for a classic, old-fashioned treat.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup uncooked white rice (short or medium grain preferred)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- Stir in milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Cook uncovered over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 20–25 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes.
- If desired, stir in raisins during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with cinnamon on top.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, substitute evaporated milk for part of the whole milk.
- Adjust sweetness to taste — add more sugar if desired.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of milk before reheating if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
White Rice: Short or medium-grain rice works best for a creamy consistency.
Milk: Whole milk gives richness, but you can use 2%, almond, or coconut milk if preferred.
Sugar: Sweetens the pudding just enough without overpowering it.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors.
Eggs: Help thicken the pudding and create a smooth, custard-like texture.
Butter: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and aromatic sweetness.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that adds warmth and a touch of nostalgia.
Nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle, cozy spice note.
Raisins (optional): For a traditional touch and chewy contrast.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the water has been absorbed.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Base
Stir in 3 cups of milk, the sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken slightly, about 10–12 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flavor
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and ½ cup of warm milk mixture to temper them. Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Continue cooking over low heat for 3–5 minutes, or until thick and creamy.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If desired, fold in raisins for added texture. Serve warm for a comforting dessert or chill for a refreshing treat. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Perfect for serving as a dessert or sweet snack.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It will thicken as it cools—simply stir in a splash of milk when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Serve warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Variations and Customizations
Coconut Rice Pudding: Replace half the milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
Chocolate Rice Pudding: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a rich twist.
Lemon Vanilla Rice Pudding: Add lemon zest and extra vanilla for a bright, fragrant variation.
Raisin and Rum Pudding: Soak raisins in rum or brandy before folding them in for a grown-up version.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add a cinnamon stick during cooking for deeper spice flavor.
Caramel Rice Pudding: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for extra decadence.
Vegan Rice Pudding: Use almond or oat milk and omit the eggs for a dairy-free version.
Baked Rice Pudding: Pour the pudding into a baking dish, top with nutmeg, and bake until golden for a firmer texture.
Berry Bliss: Add a spoonful of berry compote or jam for a fruity contrast.
Nutty Finish: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios on top for crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes! Use about 2 cups of cooked rice and skip the first cooking step—just adjust the milk slightly.
2. Can I make rice pudding without eggs?
Yes, simply simmer longer until the milk reduces and thickens naturally.
3. What’s the best rice to use?
Medium or short-grain white rice is best—it becomes creamy and soft.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use almond, coconut, or oat milk and vegan butter.
5. Why is my rice pudding too thick?
It thickens as it cools—add a splash of milk to loosen it.
6. Can I freeze rice pudding?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month; thaw and stir before reheating.
7. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase cooking time and liquid slightly, as brown rice takes longer to soften.
8. How do I prevent the pudding from curdling?
Temper the eggs first and cook over low heat while stirring constantly.
9. How do I serve rice pudding?
It’s delicious warm with cinnamon or chilled with whipped cream or fruit.
10. Can I add flavor extracts?
Absolutely—almond, coconut, or even maple extract make great additions.
Conclusion
This Homemade Rice Pudding is a timeless dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and warm spices, it’s the perfect comfort food for any season. Whether you enjoy it warm by the fire or cold straight from the fridge, each spoonful feels like a cozy hug. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always crowd-pleasing, this classic dessert will quickly become a family favorite.