Introduction
Old-Fashioned Creamy Rice Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—warm, silky, lightly sweet, and infused with gentle vanilla and cinnamon. It’s the kind of recipe that fills the kitchen with nostalgia and soothes the soul with every spoonful.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Rice pudding has been cherished in cultures around the world for centuries, from European kitchens to Middle Eastern and Latin American homes. The old-fashioned American version, often made on stovetops with milk, sugar, and warm spices, became a beloved farmhouse dessert and a way to stretch simple pantry ingredients into something delightful. It remains a symbol of warmth, home cooking, and generational tradition.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Rice Pudding:
- 1 cup uncooked medium-grain or long-grain white rice
- 4 cups whole milk (plus extra if needed for creaminess)
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (added at the end for richness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional for sprinkling)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra creaminess)
Optional Additions
- Raisins or golden raisins
- A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
- Almond extract instead of vanilla
- Orange zest or lemon zest
- Brown sugar instead of white sugar
- A swirl of sweetened condensed milk for extra richness
Tips for Success
- Cook rice slowly and gently to achieve a creamy, tender texture.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking or scorching.
- Temper the eggs by adding warm rice mixture slowly before combining fully—this keeps them from scrambling.
- Add extra warm milk at the end if you prefer a looser pudding.
- Rice pudding thickens as it cools, so adjust consistency while it’s still warm.
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine rice, 1 cup water, 4 cups milk, sugar, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and cook gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring often until rice is soft and mixture thickens.
- In a small bowl, whisk eggs with 1 cup milk or half-and-half.
- Slowly stir 1 cup of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture to temper it.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot and stir continuously over low heat for 2–3 minutes until thick and creamy. Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter (if using).
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
- Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Description
This rice pudding is luxuriously creamy with plump, tender grains and a smooth, custard-like texture. The subtle sweetness and warm vanilla aroma create an old-fashioned charm that tastes just like the classic dessert from childhood kitchens.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, 8 servings)
- Calories: 180–230
- Fat: 5–8g
- Carbohydrates: 28–35g
- Protein: 5–7g
- Sugar: 12–18g
- Fiber: 0–1g
Values vary based on milk choice and add-ins.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Creamy Rice Pudding is comfort in a bowl—simple, nostalgic, and endlessly soothing. Whether served warm in winter or chilled in summer, it’s a timeless dessert that never loses its charm.
Recommendation
Serve with a dusting of cinnamon, a pat of butter melting on top, or a handful of raisins. It pairs beautifully with hot tea, coffee, or a cozy evening by the fire.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This pudding celebrates simple ingredients and mindful indulgence. You can lighten it by using reduced-fat milk or sweeten it naturally with honey, yet still enjoy every comforting bite. It’s proof that wholesome, old-fashioned treats can be both satisfying and nourishing.