Description
This classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding recipe offers a creamy, comforting dessert made with cooked rice simmered in milk, sweetened with sugar, and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Enhanced with a touch of butter and optional raisins, this traditional pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Simmer Milk and Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of cooked white rice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Add Sugar and Spices: Stir in 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking and ensure the flavors meld.
- Temper and Add Eggs: In a small bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. Gradually pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to combine.
- Cook Until Creamy: Cook the pudding for an additional 5 minutes over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and reaches a creamy consistency.
- Finish and Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Fold in 1/3 cup raisins if using, distributing them evenly throughout the pudding.
- Serve: The pudding can be served warm or chilled according to preference. Optionally, sprinkle additional ground cinnamon on top before serving for extra flavor and presentation appeal.
Notes
- Use cooked white rice, preferably cooled, to ensure even cooking and texture.
- Tempering the eggs prevents them from scrambling when added to the hot mixture.
- Adjust sugar to taste if a sweeter pudding is desired.
- Raisins are optional, but they add a nice chewy texture and sweetness.
- For a lactose-free option, substitute whole milk with a plant-based milk, keeping in mind the flavor and texture changes.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
