The Best Homemade Rice Pudding Recipe

Packed with creamy goodness, this homemade rice pudding recipe is a comforting dessert that will leave you craving more—discover the secret ingredient now.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade rice pudding is a comforting treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up with just a few pantry staples. Creamy and rich, the pudding is made with milk, rice, and a touch of sweetness for a classic flavor. Customizable to your taste, you can add cinnamon, vanilla, or even raisins for a personal twist. Great for leftovers, it tastes even better the next day, making it a versatile dessert or snack.

Recipe

creamy rice comfort dessert

Rice pudding is a classic comfort dessert that’s creamy, rich, and easy to make at home. This simple recipe uses basic ingredients to create a deliciously smooth and satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
  3. Stir in milk and sugar. Cook uncovered over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and raisins (if using).
  5. Let cool slightly before serving warm, or chill for a cold dessert.

Notes:

  • For a creamier texture, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
  • Adjust sugar to taste.

Equipment:

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Time:

  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking time: 35–40 minutes

Cuisine: American

Serving: 4–6 servings

Nutrition

Rice pudding offers a comforting dessert with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

NutrientAmount
Calories250 kcal
Carbohydrates45 g
Protein6 g
Fat5 g
Saturated Fat3 g
Cholesterol15 mg
Sodium100 mg
Sugar20 g
Fiber1 g
Calcium150 mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade rice pudding with fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, to add a revitalizing contrast to its creamy texture. When it’s cold outside, I’ll often serve it alongside a warm spiced drink, like chai or cinnamon tea, for extra cozy comfort. It’s a simple way to make the dessert feel even more special.

Fresh Fruit Pairings

When I’m serving up a comforting bowl of rice pudding, I love to brighten it up with fresh fruit that adds a burst of flavor and color. Sliced bananas are a classic choice—they’re creamy and sweet, blending perfectly with the pudding. Berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a tangy pop and look gorgeous on top. Mango or pineapple chunks bring a tropical vibe, while diced apples or pears offer a crisp, invigorating bite. Sometimes, I’ll even toss in a handful of pomegranate seeds for a burst of juiciness. Fresh fruit makes every bite feel special and balanced.

Warm Spiced Drinks

To make your rice pudding even cozier, pair it with a warm spiced drink that’ll wrap you up in comfort. I love sipping on chai tea or hot apple cider—it’s like a hug in a mug. The cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg blend perfectly with the creamy pudding, making every bite feel like a treat. Sometimes I’ll even brew a cup of spiced hot chocolate for an extra indulgent combo. Trust me, these drinks elevate the experience, turning dessert into a full-on moment of joy. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you’ll feel like a kitchen pro without much effort. Cheers to warmth and sweetness!

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