The Best Homemade Rice Pudding Recipe

Warm, creamy rice pudding made with simple ingredients—discover the secret to this comforting classic that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade rice pudding is a comforting treat that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. You’ll love how simple the ingredients are, often already in your pantry, making it a perfect last-minute dessert. Its creamy texture and rich, vanilla-infused taste will remind you of cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile—enjoy it warm for a soothing treat or chilled for a revitalizing finish to any meal.

Recipe

creamy rice dessert recipe

Rice pudding is a classic dessert that’s creamy, comforting, and simple to make. This homemade version uses basic ingredients to create a rich and satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ½ 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, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
  3. Stir in milk and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 15 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and raisins (if using).
  5. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or chilled.

Notes:

For a creamier texture, use Arborio rice instead of white rice. Adjust sugar to taste.

Equipment:

Medium saucepan, wooden spoon

Time:

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 35-40 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

Serves 4-6

Nutrition

This homemade rice pudding is a comforting dessert with a balanced nutritional profile. Below is the detailed nutrition information per serving.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories250
Total Fat7g
Saturated Fat4g
Cholesterol20mg
Sodium150mg
Total Carbohydrates40g
Dietary Fiber1g
Sugars20g
Protein6g

What To Serve With It

I love serving my homemade rice pudding with fresh fruit toppings like berries or sliced bananas—it adds a burst of color and sweetness. A warm cup of spiced chai or coffee pairs perfectly, balancing the creamy richness of the pudding. It’s a simple combo that makes the dessert feel extra special.

Fresh Fruit Topping

A drizzle of honey and a handful of fresh berries can turn a simple bowl of rice pudding into something special. I love adding a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and natural sweetness. Sliced bananas, diced mango, or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds also work wonders. Sometimes, I’ll toss in a few sliced almonds or a dash of cinnamon for extra texture and flavor. The beauty of fresh fruit toppings is how versatile they are—you can use whatever’s in season or what you have on hand. It’s an easy way to make every bite feel a little more indulgent.

Spiced Hot Beverages

There’s nothing like a warm, spiced drink to pair with creamy rice pudding—it’s the perfect way to balance sweetness with a little cozy heat. I love serving chai tea, with its mix of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, or a steaming mug of spiced hot chocolate dusted with nutmeg. Even a simple cup of coffee with a pinch of cloves can elevate the whole experience. The warmth of these drinks complements the pudding’s richness, making each bite feel like a hug. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never want to eat rice pudding without it!

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