Classic Homemade Rice Pudding

Name: Classic Homemade Rice Pudding
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup short-grain rice; 4 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Ground cinnamon; Nutmeg; Raisins; Chopped nuts

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Favorites

I absolutely love making classic homemade rice pudding because it brings back such warm memories of my childhood. The combination of creamy milk, sweet rice, and a hint of vanilla creates a comforting dessert that feels indulgent yet simple. Each spoonful is an inviting reminder of home, and I cherish sharing this recipe with my family. It’s a timeless treat that I find myself craving, especially on chilly days when I need something cozy and familiar.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:41:35.655Z

When I first tried my hand at making rice pudding, I was both excited and nervous. I wanted to recreate the comforting dish my grandmother used to make. After experimenting a bit, I found that cooking the rice slowly in milk really enhances the creaminess. Choosing short-grain rice also makes a noticeable difference in texture, making it delightful and satisfying.

One of my favorite tips is to stir the pudding gently as it simmers. This not only prevents it from sticking to the bottom but also helps achieve that lovely, creamy consistency. Plus, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg right at the end gives it an aromatic finish that elevates the whole dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, creamy comfort in every bite
Versatile dessert that can be customized with toppings
A perfect balance of sweetness and aromatic spices

The Key to Creamy Perfection

Achieving the perfect creaminess in rice pudding hinges on using short-grain rice. This type of rice releases more starch as it cooks, resulting in a richer and silkier texture. If you can't find short-grain rice, Arborio rice is a great substitute, commonly used in risottos. Both types enhance the pudding's creaminess, maximizing that comforting mouthfeel you crave.

Cooking the rice slowly is crucial. Use medium heat to bring the milk to a gentle boil before switching to low heat. This method helps prevent the milk from scorching while allowing the rice to soften thoroughly. Keep an eye on the pot to ensure it doesn't boil over, and adjust the heat if necessary. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender, typically around 20 minutes.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

The base flavor here is straightforward, but you can elevate it significantly with a few tweaks. Adding a touch of ground cinnamon or fresh nutmeg during the final cooking stages imparts a warm aromatic note that complements the pudding beautifully. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider steeping a vanilla pod in the milk for deeper vanilla undertones before removing it and proceeding with the recipe.

For a modern twist, try incorporating coconut milk in place of a portion of the dairy. This adjustment not only adds a subtle tropical flavor but also makes the pudding dairy-free. Just be aware that the consistency may vary slightly, so adjust the cooking time and liquid based on the thickening you observe during the simmer.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup short-grain rice
4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

Ground cinnamon
Nutmeg
Raisins
Chopped nuts

Feel free to get creative with your toppings!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until rice is tender.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the remaining 2 cups of milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens.

Serve and Enjoy

Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, topped with your choice of cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, or chopped nuts.

This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for several days!

Pro Tips

For a creamier pudding, consider substituting a portion of the milk with heavy cream or coconut milk.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This rice pudding stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Be sure to transfer it to an airtight container once cooled. When reheating, add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy consistency, as it may thicken when chilled. Warm it up gently on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

If you find yourself with too much pudding and want to save some for later, consider freezing it for up to a month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. To defrost, transfer to the refrigerator overnight, and reheat gently as mentioned above for a comforting dessert on demand.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, the choices are plentiful. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top adds a visually appealing and flavorful finish. You can also mix in some raisins or chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for added texture and heartiness. These toppings not only make the dish more visually appealing but also provide additional layers of flavor.

Consider pairing your rice pudding with fruits such as fresh berries or poached pears for a contrast in texture and temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream can also elevate the dish into a more decadent dessert, transforming a simple pudding into a show-stopping finale to any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

While short-grain rice works best for its creamy texture, you can use medium or long-grain rice, but the consistency will differ.

→ How do I store leftover rice pudding?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make rice pudding dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice for a dairy-free version.

→ What spices can I add to enhance the flavor?

In addition to cinnamon and nutmeg, consider adding cardamom or vanilla bean for an extra burst of flavor.