This creamy, nostalgic dessert is pure comfort in a bowl — simple ingredients, slow cooking, and a whole lot of love. Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding has been a classic for generations, filling kitchens with warmth and the sweet aroma of vanilla and milk. Let’s bring that timeless magic to your table.
A Little History**
Rice pudding has roots stretching back centuries — from Asia to Europe and the Middle East. Ancient versions used rice, milk, and honey, simmered over gentle heat. In England and America, the dish evolved into the baked or stovetop custard-like pudding we love today. It’s a “poor man’s dessert” that became a symbol of homey goodness and comfort — proof that the simplest things are often the sweetest.
Ingredients**
- 1 cup white rice (long-grain or medium-grain)
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
- ¼ cup raisins (optional, but classic)
- A knob of butter (for richness, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and salt, reduce heat to low, and cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender — about 15 minutes. Set aside. - Warm the Milk and Cream:
In another saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium-low until warm but not boiling — stir frequently to prevent scorching. - Combine and Simmer:
Add the cooked rice to the warm milk mixture. Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. - Temper the Eggs:
In a small bowl, beat the eggs. Slowly whisk in a few spoonfuls of the hot rice mixture to raise the temperature (this prevents scrambling). Then, stir the tempered eggs back into the pot. - Add Flavor:
Mix in vanilla extract, and if you like, add raisins and a dash of cinnamon. Cook for another 2–3 minutes on low heat until rich and thick. - Finish and Serve:
Remove from heat. Stir in a small knob of butter for extra creaminess. Serve warm, or chill in the fridge for a cold, custard-like texture. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if desired.
Tips**
- For a silkier texture, use short-grain rice (like Arborio) — it releases more starch.
- If it thickens too much after chilling, stir in a splash of milk before serving.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for cozy warmth or a spoonful of lemon zest for a fresh twist.
Benefits**
- Comforting & nostalgic — perfect for cozy nights.
- Protein-rich from eggs and milk.
- Budget-friendly dessert made from pantry staples.
- Customizable — great with fruits, nuts, or even coconut milk for a twist.
Conclusion**
Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is more than just dessert — it’s a hug in a bowl, a taste of simpler times. Every creamy spoonful brings back memories of family kitchens, warm stoves, and the joy of homemade goodness. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style.