Here’s a classic old-fashioned rice pudding—the slow-cooked, creamy kind with simple pantry ingredients, just like it used to be made.
Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding
Description
A comforting, creamy dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and gentle spices. This traditional rice pudding is softly thick, lightly sweet, and perfect served warm or cold.
Preparation Details
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cooking time: 40–45 minutes
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Serves: 4
Ingredients
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½ cup short-grain rice (or medium-grain)
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4 cups whole milk
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¼ cup sugar
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Optional add-ins:
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¼ cup raisins
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1 tablespoon butter
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Extra milk for thinning
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Rinse the rice
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Place rice in a sieve.
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Rinse under cold water until water runs mostly clear.
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Drain well.
Step 2: Start cooking
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In a heavy-bottom saucepan, add rice, milk, and salt.
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Stir gently.
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Bring to a slow simmer over medium heat.
Step 3: Simmer slowly
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Reduce heat to low.
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Cook uncovered for 35–40 minutes.
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Stir every 3–5 minutes to prevent sticking.
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The rice should be very soft and the mixture creamy.
Step 4: Add sugar and flavoring
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Stir in sugar.
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Add cinnamon and nutmeg.
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If using raisins, add them now.
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Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Finish the pudding
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Remove from heat.
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Stir in vanilla extract.
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Add butter if using.
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Let pudding rest for 5 minutes to thicken.
Serving
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Serve warm for a cozy dessert.
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Chill and serve cold for a firmer texture.
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Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.
Tips for Best Results
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Use whole milk for classic richness.
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Keep heat low to avoid scorching.
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Stir often near the end of cooking.
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Add more milk if pudding thickens too much.
Storage
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently with a splash of milk.