Rice Pudding Recipe: A Comforting Classic

I still remember the smell of rice pudding in my grandmother’s kitchen. It was creamy and warm, taking me back to happy childhood days. Rice pudding brings back memories and makes you feel at home.

If you’re looking for a cozy treat or a rich dessert, try this rice pudding recipe. It’s creamy and sweet, making it a favorite for families. It’s the perfect homemade delight.

Key Takeaways

• This classic rice pudding recipe is a comforting, nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make at home.
• The recipe yields a perfectly creamy, velvety texture thanks to the use of short-grain or medium-grain rice.
• With just 50 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this delicious easy rice pudding in no time.
• Customize the rice pudding dessert with your favorite toppings and mix-ins for a personalized touch.
• This homemade rice pudding is a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Creamy Rice Pudding: A Cozy Delight

Indulge in the comforting embrace of a classic rice pudding recipe. This creamy, vanilla-infused dessert is a true delight. It will transport you back to your childhood. With its rich, velvety texture and soothing flavors, this classic rice pudding is the perfect treat for a cozy evening or a comforting breakfast.

The secret to this comforting rice pudding lies in the combination of aromatic Arborio rice, creamy International Delight French Vanilla Creamer, and a touch of vanilla extract. The result is a luscious, custardy pudding that will have you reaching for seconds.

Ingredient Spotlight

To achieve the perfect rice pudding recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 cup of uncooked Arborio rice
• 2 cups of International Delight French Vanilla Creamer
• 4-1/2 cups of whole milk
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract

This carefully curated blend of ingredients ensures a creamy, indulgent texture. It will make your taste buds swoon.

“This rice pudding is more like a rich vanilla custard. The bourbon-soaked raisins take it to the next level, creating a soothing, hug-in-a-bowl experience.”

With just 20 minutes of cooking time and a serving size of 6, this classic rice pudding recipe is the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet cravings.

The Ultimate Rice Pudding Ingredients

Classic rice pudding is all about the ingredients. This recipe uses a special mix to make it creamy, sweet, and flavorful.

Short-grain rice is the base, giving it a creamy texture. Whole milk and heavy cream make it rich and smooth. Vanilla bean and bourbon-soaked raisins add depth to the taste.

Granulated sugar sweetens it just right. A pinch of fine sea salt enhances the sweetness. An egg makes it silky and custard-like.

Ingredient	Quantity
Short-grain rice	1 cup
Whole milk	6 cups
Heavy cream	2 1/2 cups
Vanilla bean	1
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup
Fine sea salt	Pinch
Raisins, soaked in bourbon	1/2 cup
Large egg	1

With these rice pudding ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious dessert. It’s comforting and will please your taste buds.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Making your rice pudding creamy and velvety is key to a delicious dessert. The secret is in the rice type. Short-grain rice, like Japanese sushi rice or arborio rice, is best for the right texture.

These rices have lots of starch, which thickens the pudding and makes it creamy. Long-grain rices, like basmati or brown rice, won’t give you that smooth, creamy feel that makes rice pudding texture so good.

Exploring the Best Rice for Rice Pudding

For the best rice for rice pudding, go for short-grain varieties. Their high starch content makes the pudding creamy and melts in your mouth. Arborio rice, famous for risotto, is a top pick for a rich, velvety pudding.

“The key to a creamy, velvety rice pudding lies in the rice itself. Short-grain varieties like arborio and sushi rice are essential for achieving the perfect texture.”

So, for the ultimate rice pudding texture, choose short-grain rice. Your taste buds will love you for it!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stovetop Rice Pudding

Get ready to enjoy homemade stovetop rice pudding. It’s a classic dessert that’s easy to make. Just follow a few simple steps to create the perfect creamy rice pudding on your stovetop.

First, collect your ingredients. You’ll need ¾ cup of arborio rice, 5 cups of milk, ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a dash of vanilla extract. Simmering the rice and milk for 40 to 50 minutes is key to getting the right thick and creamy texture.

1. In a large saucepan, mix the ¾ cup of arborio rice and the 5 cups of milk. Heat it gently over medium heat, stirring now and then to stop the rice from sticking.
2. Lower the heat to low and keep simmering, stirring often, for 40 to 50 minutes. This will make the rice pudding thick and creamy.
3. When the rice pudding is creamy, add the ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
4. Take the rice pudding off the heat and let it cool a bit. As it cools, it will get even thicker, like a custard.
5. For the best taste, chill the rice pudding for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days before serving. This lets the flavors mix well and the texture set.

Enjoy your homemade stovetop rice pudding chilled or at room temperature. You can add whipped cream, cinnamon, or fresh berries on top. This easy recipe is sure to be a hit with your family.

Ingredient	Amount
Arborio Rice	¾ cup
Milk	5 cups
Sugar	½ cup plus 2 tablespoons
Vanilla Extract	1 teaspoon

“Creamy, comforting rice pudding is the ultimate nostalgic dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face.”

rice pudding recipe

Discover the timeless, classic rice pudding recipe passed down through generations. It’s a comforting dessert with creamy, vanilla-infused custard and tender rice. With simple ingredients, you can enjoy homemade classic rice pudding anytime.

Ingredients for Perfection

The secret to the ultimate traditional rice pudding is in the ingredients. Use short-grain or Arborio rice for its creamy texture. Whole milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract are the base. You can add raisins or other ingredients to your liking.

To get the perfect consistency, simmer the rice in milk until it’s thick. The slow heating and stirring blend the flavors beautifully.

“This homemade rice pudding recipe is a true classic – it’s comforting, satisfying, and always hits the spot. The creamy texture and vanilla-kissed flavor make it a timeless dessert that’s sure to delight.”

Enjoy this classic rice pudding recipe warm, chilled, or with toppings. It’s a culinary treasure that brings back cherished memories. Savor each spoonful and let the flavors envelop you in comfort.

Oven-Baked Rice Pudding Variations

The oven-baked rice pudding has a unique texture and flavor. It’s thicker and more concentrated than the stovetop version. You can also add your favorite mix-ins and toppings.

The Southern-style recipe is a favorite. It includes eggs, whole milk, sugar, and spices. Baked for 90 minutes at 300 degrees, it’s a rich dessert. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days.

For creamier pudding, mix milk with half-and-half. Add nutmeg and orange zest for a twist. Vegans can use coconut or almond milk. Cocoa powder makes it chocolatey.

Variation	Ingredients	Baking Time	Servings	Calories per Serving
Southern-Style Baked Rice Pudding	Eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cooked rice, ground cinnamon, raisins	90 minutes at 300°F	8	191 kcal
Creamy Baked Rice Pudding	Milk, half-and-half, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cooked rice, ground nutmeg, orange zest	75 minutes at 325°F	8	205 kcal
Vegan Baked Rice Pudding	Coconut milk, almond milk, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cooked rice	60 minutes at 350°F	6	182 kcal
Chocolate Baked Rice Pudding	Whole milk, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cooked rice, cocoa powder	80 minutes at 325°F	8	215 kcal

Choose the texture and flavor you like best. Rice pudding is versatile. Try different mix-ins and toppings to make it your own.

Customizing Your Rice Pudding

Get creative and make your rice pudding unique. You can add fresh fruit, crunchy nuts, warm spices, or even liqueurs. These add-ins and toppings can turn your dessert into a special treat.

Fruit and Nut Infusions

Add diced apples, juicy berries, or chopped dried figs for sweetness. Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts add a nice crunch. For a tropical flavor, try coconut flakes or mango or pineapple preserves.

Spices and Syrups

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can make your pudding better. Maple syrup or honey can add a caramelized taste. Brown sugar or molasses can give it a deeper flavor.

Indulgent Additions

Adding chocolate chips, chopped dark chocolate, or a favorite liqueur makes it richer. Whipped cream or ice cream can also make it more indulgent.

With so many options, your imagination is the only limit. Customize your rice pudding to your liking. Whether you like it classic or bold, it will always be delicious.

Flavor Enhancer	How it Elevates Rice Pudding
Evaporated Milk	Adds rich, creamy texture and depth of flavor
Coconut Milk	Transforms rice pudding into a vegan, tropical treat
Ice Cream	Provides an extra layer of decadence and creaminess
Baked Topping	Introduces a crisp, caramelized texture contrast

Stovetop vs. Oven-Baked: Which Method is Best?

The debate between stovetop and oven-baked methods for rice pudding is ongoing. Each method has its own benefits, depending on what you like and the texture you want. It’s all about personal taste and the pudding’s final texture.

The stovetop method makes a creamy, custard-like pudding. Simmering the ingredients on the stove creates a smooth, spoonable texture. This is ideal for those who love a rich, indulgent dessert.

The oven-baked method, however, makes a thicker, more concentrated pudding. It has a lightly caramelized top. This method is great for those who prefer a heartier pudding. Plus, it’s easy to make while you do other things.

Stovetop Rice Pudding	Oven-Baked Rice Pudding
Creamy, custard-like texture	Thicker, more concentrated texture
Requires constant stirring	Hands-off cooking method
Silky, spoonable consistency	Lightly caramelized top
Gentle simmering on the stove	Gradual drying in the oven

Choosing between stovetop and oven-baked depends on your taste and the pudding you want. Whether you like the smooth stovetop version or the dense baked one, both are delicious and comforting.

Serving Suggestions

Rice pudding is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. You can have it warm, chilled, or at room temperature. It’s perfect for any occasion and suits your taste.

For a cozy treat, serve the rice pudding warm. Add a drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or fruit preserves. The warmth brings out the creamy texture and spices, making it a moment of bliss.

For a refreshing treat, chill the rice pudding in the fridge. The cool temperature contrasts with the richness. Top it with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or toasted nuts for a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Let the rice pudding cool to room temperature for a versatile option. This temperature blends the flavors perfectly. Try it with honey, coconut flakes, or crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.

Serving Style	Topping Suggestions	Occasion
Warm	Caramel drizzle Cinnamon Fruit preserves	Cozy, comforting
Chilled	Fresh berries Powdered sugar Toasted nuts	Refreshing, summer
Room Temperature	Honey Coconut flakes Crushed pineapple	Versatile, anytime

No matter how you serve this creamy rice pudding, it’s a crowd-pleaser. It’s great for a cozy snack, a decadent dessert, or a refreshing summer treat. Its versatility makes it perfect for any time of day.

The Comforting History of Rice Pudding

Rice pudding has a rich history, dating back centuries. It has roots in many cultures. This dessert is loved for its creamy texture and simple flavors.

The first rice pudding recipes were from the 10th century. They were found in Middle Eastern cookbooks. Later, in the 13th century, a recipe for “honeyed rice” pudding was written in an Iberian cookbook.

The Ottomans added many rice pudding recipes to their cuisine. They called the sweet version “sütlaç” (SOOT-lach) in Turkish.

When Sephardic Jews moved to the Ottoman Empire, they adopted rice pudding. They called it “sutlach” in Ladino. Today, it’s a key dish for Shabbat breakfast and other special occasions.

The history of rice pudding also includes European traditions. In the 17th century, Europeans added beef suet, eggs, and spices like nutmeg. Now, we use special rice to make it without sausage skins.

The origins of rice pudding show its simplicity and appeal. It has become a favorite worldwide. Rice pudding brings warmth and comfort, reminding us of home.

Conclusion

This classic rice pudding recipe is a mix of creamy, comforting flavors. It’s sure to become a favorite in your family. Enjoy it warm, chilled, or with your favorite toppings. This dessert celebrates simple, wholesome ingredients.

The recipe’s rich texture comes from the right mix of rice, milk, and sugar. You can also add your own twist with raisins, nuts, or spices. This makes it a true culinary delight.

Looking for a cozy dessert or a treat for a special event? This homemade rice pudding is perfect. It brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Prepare this classic recipe and enjoy the joy of making a timeless dish that will impress everyone.

FAQ

What makes this rice pudding recipe the best?

This rice pudding is the best you’ll ever taste, with rave reviews from everyone who tries it. It’s a classic, comforting dessert that can be sprinkled with nutmeg or cinnamon. For an extra creamy pudding, use short or medium-grain rice. This recipe takes just 50 minutes to prepare and serves 4.

What gives this rice pudding its rich, creamy texture?

This rice pudding is creamy, like a rich vanilla custard. The bourbon-soaked raisins make it even better, creating a soothing, hug-in-a-bowl experience. It’s perfect for dessert or breakfast, ready in 45 minutes and gets thicker as it cools.

What are the key ingredients in this classic rice pudding recipe?

The key ingredients include short-grain rice, milk, heavy cream, vanilla bean, sugar, eggs, raisins, and bourbon (or rum/apple juice). The short-grain rice gives it a creamy texture. The vanilla bean and bourbon-soaked raisins add depth of flavor.

Why is short-grain rice essential for rice pudding?

Short-grain rice, like Japanese sushi rice or arborio rice, is key for a creamy texture. These rices are high in starch, which thickens the pudding. Longer-grain rices won’t give the same smooth, luscious consistency.

How is this classic rice pudding recipe made?

This recipe is made on the stovetop in a few simple steps. First, the cooked rice is simmered with milk and cream until thickened. Then, the egg yolk and sugar mixture is slowly added for a rich, custard-like consistency. Finally, it’s flavored with vanilla and dotted with plump, bourbon-soaked raisins.

What makes this rice pudding a timeless dessert?

This traditional rice pudding recipe has been enjoyed for generations. It offers a comforting taste of nostalgia in every bite. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it’s a timeless dessert that’s easy to prepare. The creamy, vanilla-infused pudding is perfect for showing off your favorite toppings and add-ins.

What are the differences between stovetop and oven-baked rice pudding?

The stovetop method makes a creamy, custard-like rice pudding. The oven-baked version has a thicker, more concentrated consistency with a lightly caramelized top. Baking allows for more customization, as you can easily add various mix-ins and toppings.

How can you customize this rice pudding recipe?

You can customize it with fresh fruit, nuts, warm spices, and liqueurs. Try adding brown sugar or maple syrup for sweetness, or lemon zest for a citrusy twist. Fruit preserves, chocolate chips, and toasted coconut are great additions that can make this classic dessert unique and personalized.

How can you enjoy this rice pudding?

You can enjoy it warm, chilled, or at room temperature. Tailor the serving style to your preference and the occasion. Top it with caramel, cinnamon, or fresh fruit preserves for extra indulgence. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed any time of day.

What is the history behind rice pudding?

Rice pudding has been a beloved dessert for centuries. Its simplicity and use of basic pantry staples have made it popular in many cultures. The American South cherishes it as a tradition. Its rich, creamy texture and nostalgic flavors continue to delight dessert lovers of all ages.