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The Ultimate Creamy Stovetop Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe

A spoonful of creamy rice pudding recipe topped with cinnamon being lifted from a white bowl.

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Make this classic, comforting, creamy rice pudding recipe right on your stovetop using simple ingredients. This easy homemade dessert is flavored with vanilla and cinnamon and is perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup Arborio rice (or medium-grain white rice)
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for topping
  • Optional: 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Combine the rice, whole milk, and water in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
  3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Continue to cook, stirring often (every 3 to 5 minutes), for 45 to 60 minutes. The pudding is done when the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. If using raisins, add them during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The pudding will thicken more as it cools.
  5. Serve the rice pudding warm, or chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for a cold dessert.
  6. When serving, sprinkle the top with extra ground cinnamon.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use whole milk and stir consistently during the low simmer phase.
  • If the pudding becomes too thick upon cooling, stir in a splash of extra milk to reach your preferred consistency.
  • This recipe makes a wonderful nostalgic dessert that tastes great warm or chilled.

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