“Taste the nostalgia in every bite of this creamy, dreamy Old Fashioned Rice Pudding.”
There’s something so heartwarming about the vibrant yet mellow flavors of Old Fashioned Rice Pudding. This dish transports me back to my childhood, where every spoonful was a sweet moment shared around the table. The combination of creamy rice, rich milk, and a hint of spice creates a comforting dessert that feels like home. This easy recipe will awaken your memories while celebrating beloved flavors.

Table of Contents
Why Is Old Fashioned Rice Pudding a Must-Try?
Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a true comfort food that deserves a place on your table today.
This pudding is richly creamy and subtly spiced, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion. As the weather turns cooler, this pudding becomes the perfect cozy treat to warm you from the inside. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe allows you to create something truly satisfying. You can prepare it as a family-friendly dessert that instantly brings everyone together. Pair it with homemade hot chocolate and you’ll have a wonderful end to your meal. Discover how to make your own hot chocolate here.
What Makes This Rice Pudding Unique?
This rice pudding stands out due to its balance of creaminess and texture.
A Rich Creaminess
What makes this pudding different from others is its ideal balance of creaminess and soft rice texture. By using both whole milk and heavy cream, we ensure that the pudding is luxuriously rich with every spoonful. This combination results in a delightful creaminess that enhances the rice without overpowering it.
Flavorful Spices
Additionally, the inclusion of ground cinnamon and nutmeg adds complexity. These spices work harmoniously to elevate the overall flavor but remain subtle enough not to steal the show. This blend creates a fragrant aroma while you cook, promising that your kitchen will feel warm and inviting.
Perfectly Soft Rice
The texture of the rice also sets this pudding apart. By utilizing leftover, cooked white rice, you immediately save time without sacrificing flavor or texture. This clever trick comes in handy for last-minute desserts. For a deeper dive into the science of cooking rice and other culinary delights, explore more about rice on Wikipedia.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Rice Pudding?
This rice pudding recipe features simple, everyday ingredients that create delicious results.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked white rice | 1 cup |
| Whole milk | 2 1/2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Large eggs | 3 |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Raisins | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon |

Let’s highlight a couple of the most critical ingredients in this pudding. The whole milk and heavy cream combo provides a rich base, making the dish not just tasty but also more filling. Substituting whole milk with almond milk is possible for those seeking a lighter option or dairy-free alternative. On the other hand, the protective properties of cinnamon and nutmeg add flavor and, interestingly, have beneficial nutrients.
How Do You Make Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Step by Step?
Making this rice pudding is simple and straightforward, perfect for cooks of any skill level.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with unsalted butter to prevent any sticking. This preparation sets the stage for a creamy and smooth pudding.
Step 2: Heat the Dairy
In a saucepan, gently combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Heat this mixture slowly until the sugar dissolves; be careful not to let it boil. This part is essential to ensure that you do not lose the creaminess of the pudding.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to temper the eggs. This step ensures that the eggs do not scramble when combined with the hot liquid.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Next, stir in the cooked rice, pure vanilla extract, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and raisins. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: The Baking Magic
Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes until the pudding is golden on top and slightly jiggly in the center. This baking process helps set the pudding while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Serve or Chill
Once out of the oven, let the pudding cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Serve it topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Nutritional Value (per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 60 minutes | 75 minutes | 200 calories |
What Are Some Variations and Serving Suggestions for Rice Pudding?
You can easily customize rice pudding to suit different tastes and preferences.
Diet Swap
For a dairy-free version of this pudding, consider substituting almond or oat milk for the whole milk and heavy cream. You can also use coconut cream to give it an exotic flavor. Each of these modifications retains the creamy essence while catering to specific dietary needs.
Flavor Variation
Give your rice pudding a different twist by adding a hint of citrus zest or stirring in different dried fruits such as apricots or cherries. Alternatively, infuse the milk with a touch of cardamom for an Indian-inspired flavor. For additional taste inspiration, check out this pumpkin spice.
Serving Idea
Dress up your pudding with caramel sauce or fresh berries for an elegant touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it alongside spiced cookies. Consider creating a dessert platter that might include these pudding cups alongside other comforting treats.
| Suggested Pairings | Serving Tips |
|---|---|
| Fresh berries | Serve warm or cold |
| Whipped cream | Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon |
| Vanilla ice cream | Add caramel sauce on top |
The Final Thoughts on Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful journey back to cherished moments around the table. This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you decide to top it with berries, whipped cream, or eat it plain, it’s a treat that invites sharing and enjoyment.
If you find joy in this recipe, I encourage you to save and share it on your Pinterest board. I’d love for you to connect with me on my food journey and inspire others to enjoy hearty, nostalgic recipes like this creamy delight. Follow me on Pinterest for more simple and delicious recipes!
FAQ
Can I make rice pudding in advance?
Yes, rice pudding can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It thickens as it cools, so feel free to adjust the consistency by stirring in a little milk before serving.
What types of rice work best in rice pudding?
Short-grain rice or Arborio rice is ideal for rice pudding because of its creamy texture. However, you can also use leftover long-grain rice if that’s what you have available.
Is rice pudding gluten-free?
Yes, rice pudding is naturally gluten-free since it is made with rice and dairy products. Always ensure that any additional ingredients, like flavorings or toppings, are also gluten-free.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond, coconut, or oat milk to make it a dairy-free version of rice pudding.
How can I enhance the flavor of rice pudding?
Consider adding additional spices such as nutmeg or cardamom, or using flavored extracts like almond or coconut. Topping it with fresh fruits or a drizzle of caramel also enhances flavor.

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews
A nostalgic and creamy rice pudding that offers a comforting indulgence, perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish with unsalted butter.
- In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Heat slowly until the sugar dissolves.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the large eggs and gradually add the warm milk mixture to temper the eggs.
- Stir in the cooked rice, vanilla extract, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and raisins. Mix thoroughly and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes until golden on top and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving warm or chilled, topped with cinnamon or whipped cream.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute whole milk with almond milk. Customize with citrus zest or different dried fruits for variations.
- Author: james_walker
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 170mg







No comment yet, add your voice below!