Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm blanket—simple, gentle, and deeply comforting. Made with basic pantry staples and cooked slowly, this classic pudding has a creamy texture, softly tender rice, and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s the dessert many of us remember from childhood, served warm from the stove or chilled straight from the fridge.
This recipe doesn’t rush. Like all good old-fashioned cooking, it rewards patience and care, turning humble ingredients into something truly soothing.
Yield and Timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time is 5 minutes, with 30–35 minutes of cooking time.
Ingredients
- ½ cup white rice (short- or medium-grain works best)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Optional for serving: raisins, butter, or extra cinnamon
Preparation
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the water is absorbed.
Stir in the milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for 10–15 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
In a small bowl, whisk a few spoonfuls of the hot pudding into the beaten egg to temper it. Slowly stir the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens slightly more. Do not boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and spices if using.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding warm for maximum comfort, or chill it in the refrigerator for a cool, creamy dessert. A small pat of butter on top, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a handful of raisins makes it even more traditional.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will thicken as it chills—add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.
Why This Recipe Endures
Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding has lasted through generations because it’s honest food. No fancy ingredients, no shortcuts—just time, care, and simple technique. It’s gentle on the stomach, comforting to the soul, and proof that the simplest desserts are often the most memorable.
This is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style, because comfort never does.
Enjoy !!!
