There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of old-fashioned rice pudding. It’s the kind of dessert that reminds people of home, family gatherings, and simple pleasures. Mom’s Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a timeless recipe that transforms inexpensive ingredients into a creamy, cozy treat with a rich texture and gentle sweetness. Whether you enjoy it warm straight from the pot or chilled from the fridge, this dessert always delivers pure comfort in every spoonful.
This rice pudding stands out because it’s easy to prepare, extremely budget-friendly, and uses ingredients most kitchens already have on hand. Leftover rice? Perfect. Extra milk? Even better. A handful of sugar, a little spice, and a few minutes on the stove are all you need to create a beautiful homemade dessert that feels luxurious without costing much at all.
Ingredients
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Place the cooked rice into a medium saucepan. Pour in the milk and heavy cream, then add the granulated sugar and salt. Give everything a good stir to help dissolve the sugar. This mixture will form the creamy base of your pudding, so make sure the ingredients are well blended before heating.
Step 2: Simmer Slowly
Set the saucepan over medium heat and allow the mixture to warm up until it begins to gently simmer. Avoid boiling it rapidly, as that can cause the milk to scorch. Once you see slow, steady bubbles, reduce the heat to low. Let the pudding cook for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir frequently—this prevents the rice from sticking and helps the pudding thicken evenly. Over time, the mixture will become creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Add Warm Spices and Flavor
When the pudding has thickened to your liking, add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices give the dessert its signature old-fashioned taste. If you enjoy raisins, stir them in during the last five minutes of cooking so they soften and absorb some of the warm flavors.
Step 4: Serve Warm or Chill
Once everything is combined and fragrant, remove the pudding from the heat. You can serve it right away while it’s still warm, making it perfect for cold evenings. If you prefer a chilled dessert, transfer it to individual bowls or a container and refrigerate it for a few hours. As it cools, it will thicken even more, resulting in a denser, creamier texture.
Why This Rice Pudding Recipe Works So Well
One of the best things about this recipe is how little effort it requires. Even inexperienced cooks can make rice pudding successfully, because the process is simple: simmer, stir, and enjoy. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream creates a luxurious texture, while leftover rice is not only practical but also helps the pudding cook more quickly.
This recipe has just enough sweetness to satisfy dessert cravings without being overwhelming. The cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth without overpowering the delicate rice flavor. Vanilla rounds everything out with a beautiful aroma and smooth taste.
Tips for Perfect Rice Puddin
Using leftover rice is highly recommended. Not only does it save time, but it allows the grains to absorb the milk mixture more effectively. If you’re making rice specifically for this recipe, make sure it’s fully cooked and slightly cooled before adding it to the saucepan.
If you want the pudding to be extra creamy, use whole milk instead of low-fat varieties. Dairy-free cooks can use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Coconut milk provides the richest dairy-free version, creating a tropical note that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Sweetness can be adjusted to taste. Some people enjoy a lightly sweet pudding, while others prefer it richer. Feel free to add a little more or a little less sugar depending on what you like.
For toppings, the options are endless. Fresh berries, bananas, toasted almonds, pistachios, or a drizzle of honey are all excellent additions. You can even sprinkle more cinnamon on top for extra warmth.
Why Homemade Is Always Better
Homemade rice pudding tastes fresher, creamier, and more customizable than store-bought versions. When you make it yourself, you control the sweetness, the texture, and the flavors. You also avoid preservatives commonly found in packaged pudding. Plus, making rice pudding at home is satisfying—the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling your kitchen is worth it alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. For extra richness without dairy, coconut milk is a great choice.
What type of rice is best?
Short-grain rice produces the creamiest texture, but long-grain or leftover basmati rice works perfectly.
How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, rice pudding is naturally gluten-free, making it great for people with sensitivities.