Classic Homemade Rice Pudding

Name: Classic Homemade Rice Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Highlighted under: Golden Cooking

I absolutely adore making classic homemade rice pudding. It's one of those comforting desserts that reminds me of my childhood, with its creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor. Every time I prepare it, the aroma fills my kitchen and brings smiles to everyone around. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this dish is a delightful treat that can be served for any occasion. I love how simple ingredients can create such a rich and satisfying dessert that takes me back to simpler times spent with family.

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:31:36.467Z

When I first made rice pudding, I was surprised at how easy it was to create such a beloved classic. The process of slowly simmering the rice in milk and waiting for it to soften and absorb the flavors is almost meditative. I remember my grandmother used to add a hint of nutmeg, and I often do the same to give it a special twist.

This recipe is all about patience and the right consistency; I learned to stir frequently to prevent sticking and achieve that creamy finish. Using short-grain rice adds to the pudding's rich texture, making every bite comforting and satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy consistency that melts in your mouth
Sweet aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth
Customizable toppings like cinnamon or fresh fruit
Perfectly nostalgic for family gatherings or lazy afternoons

Understanding Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice in this recipe is key to achieving that wonderfully creamy texture characteristic of rice pudding. Arborio rice is a short-grain variety known for its high starch content. During the cooking process, the rice releases starch, which thickens the milk and creates a luscious, velvety consistency. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially as the mixture thickens.

A good tip is to rinse the Arborio rice briefly under cold water before cooking. This helps remove excess surface starch, which can lead to clumping. However, don’t rinse it too thoroughly, as some starch is necessary to create that creamy texture that we all love.

Customizing Your Rice Pudding

One of the best parts about homemade rice pudding is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste. Adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings warmth and complexity to the flavor profile, but feel free to experiment with other spices such as cardamom or a dash of almond extract for a unique twist. You can also substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for different textures and tastes.

Toppings can elevate your rice pudding even further. I often enjoy adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top. Fresh fruits, like berries or sliced bananas, not only add freshness but also a burst of flavor that complements the creamy base beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you end up with leftover rice pudding, storing it properly is essential to maintain its creamy texture. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the mixture if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and prevent any sticking.

You can also freeze rice pudding for longer storage, typically for up to two months. To do this, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as described above. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delectable rice pudding.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect rice pudding.

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, salt, and 1 cup of milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Ingredients

After 15 minutes, add the remaining milk and sugar. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring consistently, until the mixture thickens to your preferred consistency (about 15-20 minutes).

Flavor It

Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If desired, mix in the raisins.

Serve

Serve warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or your favorite fruit.

Enjoy your homemade rice pudding as is or with toppings of your choice!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the whole milk with coconut milk. Additionally, experimenting with different types of rice, like jasmine or basmati, can offer unique flavors and textures.

Enhancing the Flavor

The balance of sweetness in rice pudding is crucial, and you can adjust it according to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet version, start with 1/4 cup of sugar, then taste and add more if desired as you cook. Additionally, I find that incorporating a splash of milk or a few tablespoons of cream at the end can elevate the richness, making every bite feel indulgent.

You can also infuse your pudding with flavors while cooking. For example, try adding a split vanilla bean to the milk during the simmering process. This will impart a gorgeous vanilla flavor that’s more complex than using extract alone, enhancing the overall experience.

Scaling the Recipe

This rice pudding recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or cozy family dinners. Simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the same cooking times in mind. Just make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume and provide ample stirring space to avoid burning the rice on the bottom.

For a smaller batch, you can halve the recipe with no issues. Just remember that the cooking times might shorten slightly since there will be less mixture to heat through. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, and gauge the consistency as you go to get your perfect pudding!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, almond milk can be used, but it may alter the thickness and flavor slightly. Adjust the cooking time as necessary.

→ How can I enhance the flavor of my rice pudding?

You can infuse your milk with spices like cardamom or use flavored extracts like almond or coconut for a unique twist.

→ Can I make rice pudding ahead of time?

Yes, rice pudding stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

→ Is this rice pudding vegan-friendly?

You can make it vegan by using non-dairy milk and a plant-based sweetener.