Easy Rice Pudding

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rice pudding is a classic comfort dessert made with simple pantry staples like rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla. Creamy, warm, and lightly sweet, this easy rice pudding is perfect for cozy evenings or as a chilled treat during warmer days. It’s a fuss-free recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

whitericewhole milksugarvanilla extractground cinnamonbutteregg (optional, for extra creaminess)raisins (optional)salt

directions

In a medium saucepan, combine cooked white rice, whole milk, and sugar over medium heat.

Stir frequently and cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency.

Reduce heat to low and stir in a small knob of butter, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract.

If using an egg, beat it in a bowl, then slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot mixture to temper it before stirring it back into the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Add cinnamon and raisins if desired, stirring to combine.

Serve warm for a cozy dessert or refrigerate and enjoy chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesCooling time (optional): 30 minutesTotal time: 25-55 minutes

Variations

Use coconut milk instead of dairy for a tropical twist.

Add nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice.

Replace sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.

Top with chopped nuts or fresh fruit for added texture.

Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates.

storage/reheating

Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the texture.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, leftover white rice works perfectly for this recipe.

Do I have to use whole milk?

Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with low-fat or plant-based milk.

Why is my rice pudding too thick?

It continues to thicken as it cools. Add more milk to adjust the consistency if needed.

Is the egg necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds richness, but the pudding is delicious without it.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk and skip the butter or use a vegan alternative.

Can I freeze rice pudding?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may become grainy upon thawing.

Conclusion

This easy rice pudding is a quick and comforting dessert that brings back nostalgic flavors with every bite. Whether you enjoy it warm with cinnamon or cold with fruit, it’s a simple pleasure that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Print