There’s something endlessly comforting about this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding. With every creamy spoonful, it feels like a cozy hug from the past—a dessert that’s stunning in its simplicity yet rich with childhood nostalgia. The gentle aroma of cinnamon and vanilla swirling through the kitchen makes it impossible to wait until the pudding chills. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, each bite brings back sweet memories and creates new ones, all with the perfect blend of tender rice, sweet spices, and a velvety custard base.

Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding lies in its honest, humble ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in getting that perfectly creamy texture and the delicate, classic flavor that we crave in a homemade dessert.

Uncooked white rice (3/4 cup): Choose arborio or medium-grain rice for extra creaminess—these varieties soak up the milk beautifully and give the pudding its signature texture.
Water (2 cups): Just enough to gently simmer and tenderize the rice before adding the rich dairy.
Whole milk (2 cups, plus 1 cup extra): Full-fat milk makes the pudding lush and velvety, while a splash more gets whisked into the eggs for a custardy finish.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the warm spices and creamy base—it’s the not-too-sweet touch that lets the flavors shine through.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Don’t skip! It lifts and sharpens each flavor in the pudding.
Large eggs (2): For richness and that classic, thick custard feel.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and classic pudding aroma, making the flavors pop.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers cozy, spicy undertones in every bite.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch brings a subtle, nostalgic aroma that defines old fashioned recipes.
Raisins (1/2 cup, optional): If you love a little chewy sweetness, raisins are a traditional and delicious addition.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Stirred in at the end to add an extra glossy richness.

How to Make Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by pouring the water into a medium saucepan and bringing it to a gentle boil. Once you see bubbles, add the rice, give it a quick stir, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until it’s tender and has absorbed all the water. This is the foundation of your Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, so don’t rush it—tender rice makes all the difference.

Step 2: Begin the Creamy Base

Now, pour in the 2 cups of whole milk, followed by the sugar and salt. Give everything a good stir over medium heat. Cook this mixture, stirring often, for about 15 to 20 minutes. Watch as the pudding thickens and transforms, becoming lusciously creamy as the rice soaks up the milk. This phase is where all that irresistible smoothness begins to happen.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and the additional cup of whole milk. To avoid scrambled eggs in your pudding, you’ll need to temper the eggs. Slowly ladle about a cupful of the hot rice mixture into the egg–milk mixture, whisking constantly to warm the eggs gently. This step guarantees a silky, custardy texture in your Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the rice. Stir constantly over medium heat for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the pudding thickens a bit more. The transformation here is pure kitchen magic—the mixture will take on a rich, creamy texture you’ll adore.

Step 5: Add Flavor and Finishing Touches

Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins (if desired), and butter. Let everything melt and mellow together for five minutes so the flavors really marry. This is when the Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding becomes truly irresistible!

How to Serve Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Garnishes

The simplest touch is dusting your bowl with an extra sprinkle of ground cinnamon. For an extra flourish, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a few golden raisins on top. If you’re feeling fancy, finely grate a little fresh nutmeg over each serving—it elevates the aroma and makes every bite extra special.

Side Dishes

Keep things light with a bowl of fresh seasonal berries or a tangy citrus fruit salad—their bright acidity complements the creamy richness beautifully. For a true comfort food affair, serve with a warm mug of chai or classic black tea, letting the gentle spices play off each other.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding in clear glasses with berry compote for a parfait-style treat, or serve it in teacups for a vintage vibe at your next brunch. Little ramekins with cinnamon hearts or a drizzle of caramel sauce let you turn this nostalgic dessert into a showstopper for dinner parties and family gatherings alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, scoop your extra Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavors become even more pronounced as it sits—a true make-ahead treat for busy weeks.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion the pudding into individual freezer-safe containers. Place a layer of plastic wrap directly over the surface to prevent ice crystals, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw your pudding in the fridge overnight for the best consistency.

Reheating

To revive leftover pudding, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to loosen it back up. Gently heat until silky and warm—perfect for cozy nights or an indulgent breakfast treat!

FAQs

Can I use another type Dessert

Absolutely! While arborio or medium-grain rice yields the creamiest texture for Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, you can use long-grain rice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the pudding may turn out a little less creamy, but still delicious.

Is Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure your vanilla extract and any add-ins like raisins are processed in a gluten-free facility for absolute peace of mind.

How do I prevent my pudding from becoming too thick?

Pudding thickens as it cools. Simply stir in a splash of milk when reheating or serving cold to restore the creamy consistency. Start with a couple of tablespoons, mix well, and add more if needed.

Can I make Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk with a rich, unsweetened plant-based milk like coconut or almond. Use plant-based butter for richness. The texture might vary, but it’ll still be totally comforting.

What’s the best way to serve it warm or cold?

Both are wonderful! Enjoy Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding warm for extra cozy comfort, or let it chill until thick and luscious if you prefer a cool, refreshing treat. Try each and pick your favorite—it’s hard to choose!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to fall in love with, you simply have to try this Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again: simple, soulful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Share it with loved ones, and watch it become a favorite in your home too!

Amazing Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe

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4.9 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in this delightful and comforting old-fashioned rice pudding that’s creamy, rich, and spiced just right. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a classic dessert that never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Rice Pudding:

3/4 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups water
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

Egg Mixture:

2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (additional)

Flavorings:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
1 tablespoon butter

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Instructions

Prepare Rice: In a medium saucepan, boil water, add rice, simmer covered for 15–20 minutes until tender. Stir in 2 cups milk, sugar, salt, cook until thick.
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, beat eggs with 1 cup milk. Slowly add some hot rice mix to eggs, then mix back into saucepan. Cook until slightly thickened.
Finalize Pudding: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, butter. Let sit before serving warm or chilled.