There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of homemade rice pudding. This timeless dessert, made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, and vanilla, is incredibly easy to make and offers a nostalgic comfort. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or looking to impress dinner guests, this classic rice pudding recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients for Classic Rice Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of delicious, creamy rice pudding:

• 1 cup of short-grain rice (such as Arborio, for extra creaminess)
• 4 cups of whole milk (or substitute with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional, for a touch of spice)
• 1/4 cup of raisins (optional, adds a burst of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon of butter (for richness)
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish

How to Make Classic Rice Pudding

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the pudding from becoming too thick.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once the mixture starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low.

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Allow the rice to simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the rice to absorb the milk and become tender. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency. If it starts to get too thick, add an extra splash of milk as needed.

Step 4: Add the Final Touches

Once the rice is tender and creamy, stir in the vanilla extract, butter, and optional raisins or cinnamon. The butter adds a nice richness, while the vanilla gives it a comforting aroma.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the rice pudding into bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Serve it warm or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing, cold dessert.

Tips for the Perfect Rice Pudding

1. Choose the Right Rice: Short-grain rice, like Arborio or sushi rice, works best for rice pudding as it releases more starch, making the pudding creamy.
2. Stir Frequently: Stirring helps prevent the milk from scorching and the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: You can easily adjust the sugar level to your taste. If you like it less sweet, reduce the sugar slightly.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Add a dash of cardamom, a cinnamon stick, or even a few orange zest strips while cooking for a unique twist.