A Taste of Home: Creamy Rice Pudding That Warms the Soul
There’s something about a warm bowl of creamy rice pudding that always brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. This timeless dessert, with its silky texture and gentle touch of aromatic spices, offers a kind of comfort that modern sweets just can’t match. Looking for a little culinary hug after a long day? This velvety rice pudding, finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, might be just what you need.
I cherish this recipe because it turns simple, everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or savoring it alone during a quiet, rainy evening, this pudding always delivers warmth, comfort, and that nostalgic feeling with every bite.
✨ Creamy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding
📝 Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Brown sugar for topping (optional)
🍲 Instructions:
- Cook the rice in water over medium heat until most of the liquid is absorbed — about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the milk, sugar, and salt. Let it simmer gently, stirring often, for 15–20 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream.
- Slowly add about 1 cup of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring, until it thickens further.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter until fully blended.
- Serve warm or chill it in the fridge — both ways are delicious. For an extra treat, sprinkle with brown sugar before serving.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Creamier Texture: Swap a cup of milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or almond milk for a plant-based twist.
- Love it cold? Chill it in the fridge and serve with a drizzle of honey or fruit compote.
- Make it ahead: It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back that silky texture.
🥄 Why We Love It
What makes this rice pudding so special? It’s simple, comforting, and deeply nostalgic. It doesn’t demand much—but it gives everything. Whether you’re sharing it with family around the table or curling up solo with a warm bowl and a good book, this dessert always feels like home.