Recipe Guide:
Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe – Comfort in Every Bite
There’s something absolutely magical about the scent of cooking rice pudding that takes me right back to my childhood. The warm, sweet aroma fills the home, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that whispers, “Everything’s going to be okay.” Old Fashioned Rice Pudding isn’t just a dessert; it’s a bowl of nostalgia that brings family together. When I think of chilly winter evenings or Sunday dinners, I remember my mom stirring a pot of creamy, dreamy rice pudding, our favorite spoons ready and waiting. Let’s dive into this classic recipe so you can recreate that warm feeling in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for anyone!
- Comforting homemade flavor that warms the soul.
- Made with simple ingredients you’ll likely already have.
- Great for any occasion, from dinner parties to quiet nights in.
- Always a crowd-pleaser that makes everyone feel at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need

- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups whole milk, divided
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (adds richness!)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (the secret flavor booster)
- Pinch of salt
- 2/3 cup golden raisins (optional, but delightful!)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (for garnish, to taste)
How to Make It
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, 1 1/2 cups of milk, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture over medium heat. As you stir often, notice how it begins to thicken and transforms into a soft, creamy texture — this should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, grab a small bowl and whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of milk, sugar, and the beaten egg. Here’s where you need to be a little careful: Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This step is key to keep the egg from curdling!
- Now, pour that tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rice. Cook it over low heat, stirring continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes until everything is fully incorporated and slightly thickened.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and those golden raisins if you’re using them. You can almost taste the warmth already!
- Serve the pudding warm or chill it completely for a refreshing treat. Just before serving, sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg, and watch the flavor come alive!
Kitchen Tips
- Time-saving trick: Use leftover rice! If you have cooked rice on hand, this dish comes together even quicker.
- Fix for mistakes: If the pudding seems too runny, let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens. Patience is your secret ingredient!
- Flavor twist: Try adding a dash of almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor profile. It’s a lovely surprise!
Serving Ideas
This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is perfect for a cozy family dinner, Sunday brunch, or even as a sweet treat at a holiday gathering. You can serve it alongside some fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Perhaps top it with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or some crushed nuts for added texture and flavor. Whatever the occasion, this dish brings warmth and joy to each table!
Storing & Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
- For a fun twist, you can make rice pudding parfaits! Layer leftovers with yogurt and fruit for a delightful breakfast treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! Old Fashioned Rice Pudding often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.
Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Of course! This recipe is very forgiving. You can use almond milk instead of whole milk or honey instead of sugar, whatever works for you!
Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: It’s heavenly fresh from the pot while it’s still warm and aromatic.
Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for golden edges and that rich, fragrant smell — that’s your delicious sign of perfection!
Final Thoughts
Every time I whip up this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, I’m reminded of the love that goes into cooking from the heart. This dish is perfect for cozy nights, joyous gatherings, or even just a quiet moment alone with a spoonful of comfort. I encourage you to try it, maybe even pass it down to your loved ones, because in the end, this is more than just pudding—it’s a legacy of love and warmth. Enjoy your homemade Old Fashioned Rice Pudding and make it your own!

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, 1 1/2 cups of milk, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring often until it thickens (about 15 to 20 minutes).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of milk, sugar, and beaten egg. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rice. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes until fully incorporated and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and golden raisins if using.
- Serve warm or chill completely for a refreshing treat. Before serving, sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Leave a comment