Cozy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe: Sweet Comfort in a Bowl

Warm memories of grandma’s kitchen spark my love for this classic old-fashioned rice pudding recipe that brings comfort with every creamy spoonful.

Nostalgic aromas fill the room as simple ingredients blend into a delightful dessert.

Soft grains of rice nestle within a silky custard, creating a texture that melts on your tongue.

Pure sweetness speaks of home and tradition, inviting you to slow down and savor each bite.

Creamy and rich, this pudding connects generations through its timeless simplicity.

Nothing compares to the gentle warmth of a dessert that feels like a loving embrace.

Come explore this cherished recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into pure magic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

• Can I use different types of rice for this recipe?

Short-grain white rice works best, but you can also use medium-grain rice. Avoid using long-grain rice as it won’t create the creamy texture traditional rice pudding requires.

• Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk. The alternative milks will give a slightly different flavor but maintain a similar creamy consistency.

• How do I know when the rice pudding is perfectly cooked?

The pudding is done when it’s golden on top and has a slightly jiggly, custard-like center. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean with a slight moisture.

What Makes Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding a Timeless Dessert

• Simplify Dessert Prep: No complicated techniques required, making this rice pudding perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Comfort in a Dish: Delivers classic homestyle warmth with minimal ingredients, bringing nostalgic memories of grandma's kitchen.
• Versatile Sweet Treat: Serves beautifully as a cozy family dessert or elegant dinner party finale, adapting to any occasion with ease.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Uses basic pantry staples like rice, milk, and eggs, creating a delicious dessert without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

• Rice: A classic long-grain white rice provides the creamy base for this traditional dessert.
• Milk: Whole milk creates a rich and smooth texture in the pudding.
• Eggs: Eggs help to set and thicken the pudding with a luxurious custard-like consistency.

• Sugar: White granulated sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the pudding.
• Vanilla Extract: A pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.

• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: These warming spices add depth and a comforting aroma to the classic dessert.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances and brightens the sweet flavors of the pudding.
• Butter: Unsalted butter helps grease the baking dish and adds a subtle richness.

How to Prepare Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grab a baking dish and generously coat the inside with butter to ensure nothing sticks.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Eggs

Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth, silky mixture that promises a luxurious dessert.

Step 3: Add the Star Ingredient

Gently fold uncooked white rice into the creamy liquid. Make sure each grain gets a loving coating of the sweet mixture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the rice and cream combination into the buttered baking dish. Sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon on top for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the pudding sets with a gentle wobble.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the pudding from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. The pudding will continue to set and become more creamy as it cools. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

Sprinkle some extra cinnamon, add a dollop of whipped cream, or scatter some fresh berries on top to make your rice pudding even more irresistible.

Pro Tips for Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

• Swap whole milk for low-fat or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk to create a lighter version of this classic dessert.
• Enhance flavor by adding warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract for a more complex taste profile.
• Prevent a dry pudding by stirring occasionally during baking and checking moisture levels to maintain a creamy, smooth texture.
• Elevate the dessert with optional toppings like fresh berries, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for added crunch and sweetness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, gently reheating with a splash of milk to restore creamy consistency.

Variations to Experiment With Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

• Tropical Paradise Pudding: Swap regular milk with coconut milk, add diced mangoes and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a Caribbean-inspired dessert.
• Chocolate Lovers' Rice Pudding: Mix in cocoa powder during cooking and fold dark chocolate chunks into the pudding before baking for intense chocolate flavor.
• Spiced Autumn Comfort: Incorporate ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of cardamom, then top with caramelized pecans for a warm, seasonal touch.
• Berry Bliss Version: Fold fresh raspberries or blueberries into the pudding and garnish with a raspberry coulis for a fruity, vibrant variation.

Pairing Suggestions for Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

• Sweeten the Sip: Pair this creamy rice pudding with a chilled glass of sweet Moscato wine, whose light, fruity notes complement the dessert's rich, vanilla-infused flavor.
• Spice It Up: Serve alongside a warm cup of chai tea, which adds aromatic cinnamon and cardamom undertones that enhance the pudding's comforting warmth.
• Berry Bright Companion: Top the pudding with fresh raspberries or strawberries, whose tart brightness cuts through the dessert's creamy sweetness and adds a vibrant color contrast.
• Nutty Crunch Boost: Sprinkle toasted almond slivers or chopped pecans on top to introduce a delightful textural crunch and subtle nuttiness that elevates the pudding's smooth consistency.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

• Store leftover rice pudding in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
• Transfer cooled pudding to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy texture.
• Reheat pudding in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Add a little milk to prevent scorching and maintain smooth consistency.

Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: Not specified
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy, comforting old-fashioned rice pudding whispers tales of grandma’s kitchen with its nostalgic charm. Rich with sweet vanilla and silky texture, you’ll savor each spoonful of this classic dessert that connects generations through simple, heartwarming ingredients.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups milk (660 ml)
• 2/3 cup Minute Rice (105 g)
• 1/2 cup raisins (75 g)

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

• 1/3 cup sugar (67 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (0.5 g)

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter (15 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• Cinnamon for garnish

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Instructions

1. Activate the oven to 350F (175C), positioning the rack in the middle position for even heat distribution.
2. Apply a thin layer of butter to a 1-quart baking dish, ensuring complete coverage to prevent pudding from adhering to the surface.
3. Thoroughly coat the buttered dish with a light dusting of granulated sugar, creating a delicate caramelized exterior when baked.
4. Gently combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl, whisking until the mixture achieves a smooth, uniform consistency without any visible lumps.
5. Pour the silky mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform cooking.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown and the center appears slightly jiggly but set.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the pudding to rest for 15-20 minutes, enabling it to firm up and develop a rich, creamy texture.
8. Serve warm with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Notes

• Enhance the pudding’s richness by using whole milk or a combination of cream and milk for a more luxurious texture.
• Adjust sweetness levels by experimenting with different sugars like brown sugar or maple syrup for added depth of flavor.
• Make this dessert gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Customize the pudding by adding warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to elevate the classic recipe’s taste profile.

• Prep Time: Not specified
• Cook Time: Not specified
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 176 kcal
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 110 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.2 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 0.7 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 12 mg