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Old Fashioned Creamy Stovetop Rice Pudding

A serving of creamy rice pudding recipe generously dusted with cinnamon powder on a white plate.

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This is the classic, creamy rice pudding recipe you remember. Made simply on the stovetop with basic ingredients, this dessert delivers true comfort and nostalgia in every spoonful. Serve it warm or chilled.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup short-grain white rice (like Arborio or medium-grain)
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Combine the rice, whole milk, and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
  3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. You want the mixture to maintain a very gentle bubble.
  4. Cook uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes. The pudding is done when the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency. If it gets too thick before the rice is cooked, add a splash more milk.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. The sugar will dissolve as the pudding cools slightly.
  6. Let the pudding cool for about 10 minutes. It will thicken considerably as it cools.
  7. Serve warm, or transfer to a container, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and chill completely before serving cold.
  8. When serving, sprinkle the top with extra ground cinnamon.

Notes

  • For an ultra-creamy result, stir the pudding often, especially during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
  • You can substitute 1/4 cup of the milk with evaporated milk for added richness.
  • If you prefer a thinner pudding, stir in a small amount of extra milk after it has cooled down to your desired serving temperature.
  • This makes a great make-ahead dessert; it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

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