Rice pudding is one of those nostalgic comfort foods that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and loaded with warm flavors, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. This classic rice pudding recipe, flavored with raisins and a hint of cinnamon, is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. If you’ve never made it before, don’t worry—it’s a foolproof recipe that delivers a perfect, creamy texture every time.
Whether you enjoy it warm, chilled, or even as a breakfast treat, this homemade rice pudding is bound to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this rich and satisfying dessert from scratch.
Classic Rice Pudding Recipe
Basic Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 3 to 4
Required Tools and Equipment
To make this classic rice pudding, you’ll need:
✔ Saucepan
✔ Mixing bowl
✔ Stirring spoon or wooden spoon
✔ Whisk
Ingredients
| Ingredient | US Measurement | Metric Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2 cups | 340g |
| Whole milk (or half & half) | 2 cups | 480ml |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup | 50g |
| Eggs | 2 | 2 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon | 0.5g |
| Raisins (or golden raisins) | 2/3 cup | 100g |
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, sugar, and 1 cup of milk.
- Stir the mixture well using a spoon to evenly distribute the sugar.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and turns creamy, similar in consistency to yogurt.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the eggs together until fully blended.
- Pour the remaining 1 cup of milk into the whisked eggs and mix well.
Step 4: Temper the Eggs
- To prevent scrambling the eggs, temper them by slowly adding 1 cup of the hot rice mixture to the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
- Once incorporated, pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot rice mixture.
Step 5: Add the Final Ingredients
- Stir in the raisins and cinnamon, ensuring even distribution throughout the pudding.
Step 6: Final Cooking
- Reduce the heat to low (about 160°F/70°C) and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Once the pudding reaches a thick and creamy consistency, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serving and Garnishing Suggestions
✔ Garnish: Serve the rice pudding topped with sweetened whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
✔ Temperature: It can be served warm at room temperature or chilled in the refrigerator for a cold treat.
✔ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month — €”just thaw and stir before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 60mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 20g |
Tips for the Best Rice Pudding
- Use leftover rice — This recipe is a great way to use up extra cooked rice from a previous meal.
- For extra creaminess, use half & half instead of milk. You can also add a splash of heavy cream for an even richer texture.
- Customize the flavor — Swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even shredded coconut for a different twist.
- Make it dairy-free — Substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. The pudding may be slightly less thick but still delicious.
- Sweetness adjustment — If you prefer a less sweet pudding, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make rice pudding with uncooked rice?
Yes! To use uncooked rice, increase the milk to 3 ½ cups, add ½ cup uncooked rice, and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Why is my rice pudding too thick or dry?
Rice pudding thickens as it cools. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk and stir before serving to restore the creamy texture.
3. Can I add vanilla extract?
Absolutely! Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract along with the cinnamon for a subtle vanilla flavor.
4. How can I prevent my eggs from scrambling?
Tempering the eggs by slowly adding hot liquid while whisking prevents them from scrambling. Never add eggs directly into the hot mixture without tempering.
5. Can I make this pudding without eggs?
Yes! Simply skip the eggs and simmer the rice pudding until it thickens. You can add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water for extra thickness.
Final Thoughts
Classic rice pudding is a simple yet satisfying dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a creamy texture and perfect flavor every time. Whether you enjoy it warm with a touch of whipped cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, grab your saucepan and start cooking—your homemade rice pudding awaits!
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