There’s just something magical about moms old fashioned rice pudding that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug. It takes me back to my childhood—sitting at the kitchen table, the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air, and the sound of my mom stirring the pot on the stove. Every spoonful was like a little taste of home, creamy and comforting, and it never failed to brighten my day.
Making this delightful dessert is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory. I remember watching my mom carefully measure out the rice and milk, her gentle hands moving with ease as she mixed everything together. The best part? It’s so simple! Just a few ingredients come together to create something truly special. Whether I’m serving it warm topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, each bite is a reminder of those sweet moments spent in the kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to love making this and sharing it with your loved ones, just like my mom did with me!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delicious moms old fashioned rice pudding, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of rice, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups of milk, preferably whole for creaminess
- 1 cup of sugar, adjust based on your sweetness preference
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt, just to balance the sweetness
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, because it adds that lovely depth of flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, for that warm, inviting aroma
(Tip: Make sure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch—it helps keep the pudding from being too sticky!)
How to Prepare Moms Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
Alright, let’s dive into making this creamy, dreamy moms old fashioned rice pudding! It’s really straightforward, but I’ll guide you through each step to make sure you nail it perfectly. Ready? Let’s go!
- First, rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps get rid of excess starch, which is key for a smooth pudding.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice, milk, and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it—milk can bubble over quickly, so stir occasionally!
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir it every few minutes to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You want it to absorb that creamy milk goodness!
- After 20 minutes, add in the sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine everything. The pudding will start to thicken up—how exciting!
- Now, let it cook for another 10 minutes on low heat. Keep stirring occasionally, and you’ll see it transform into a luscious, thick pudding. If it gets too thick for your liking, you can always add a splash more milk to loosen it up a bit.
- Once it’s reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. It’ll continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first.
And there you have it! Your moms old fashioned rice pudding is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing dessert later on. You’ll love how versatile it is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert or a cozy family treat.
- Comforting Taste: Each bite is like a warm hug, with the creamy texture and sweet cinnamon flavor that brings back fond memories.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy it warm right off the stove, or chill it for a refreshing dessert. It’s delicious either way!
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have these pantry staples at home, so no need for a last-minute grocery run!
- Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness or add your favorite spices to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love it! It’s a great way to introduce them to classic desserts and get them involved in the kitchen.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your moms old fashioned rice pudding turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way to help you navigate any tricky spots:
- Rinsing the Rice: Don’t skip this step! Rinsing removes excess starch, which can make your pudding gummy. You want that smooth, creamy texture, so rinse until the water runs clear.
- Stir Frequently: Keep your eye on the pot and stir every few minutes while it simmers. This prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom and ensures an even consistency throughout.
- Watch the Heat: Adjust the heat as needed. If it’s boiling too vigorously, turn it down. A gentle simmer is what you’re aiming for to let the flavors meld without burning!
- Consistency Check: If your pudding seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of milk to loosen it up. You can always adjust it to your preferred texture as it cools.
- Taste as You Go: Everyone’s sweetness preference is different! After adding the sugar, give it a taste. Feel free to add more or less sugar to suit your taste buds.
- Cool Before Serving: Letting it cool for a bit is key! The pudding will thicken further as it cools, so don’t be alarmed if it looks a little runny right off the stove.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful rice pudding that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about moms old fashioned rice pudding is how easily it can be customized to fit your taste buds! Here are some fun and delicious variations to try out:
- Chocolate Delight: Mix in some cocoa powder or chocolate chips during the last few minutes of cooking. You’ll have a rich, chocolatey twist that’s perfect for dessert lovers!
- Fruit Fusion: Add in diced fruits like raisins, apples, or even berries for a burst of flavor. Toss them in when you add the sugar, so they soften and meld beautifully with the pudding.
- Nutty Goodness: Stir in some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for a delightful crunch. They add texture and a nice nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pudding.
- Coconut Cream: Substitute a cup of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist! You can also top it with shredded coconut for that extra coconut flavor.
- Maple Magic: Swap out the sugar for maple syrup and add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor reminiscent of fall. It’s a lovely alternative that’s equally delicious!
- Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices! Try adding a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or even a splash of almond extract for a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of this comforting classic! The beauty of moms old fashioned rice pudding is that it’s all about what you love, so get creative and enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of moms old fashioned rice pudding—yay! But what do you do with the leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to store it and keep it tasting just as delightful.
First things first, let the pudding cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make it watery. Once it’s cool, transfer the rice pudding to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Trust me, it’s just as comforting a few days later!
If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it! Just scoop the pudding into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags—be sure to leave some space for expansion. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ll want to be gentle. For stovetop reheating, simply place the pudding in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk to loosen it up and stir frequently until warmed through. This helps restore that creamy texture we all love!
If you prefer the microwave, scoop out a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk, and cover it loosely with a paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your moms old fashioned rice pudding will be just as scrumptious the next time you dig in. Enjoy every last spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of moms old fashioned rice pudding! Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving (1 cup), but keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 8g
This delightful dessert is not only a sweet treat but also offers a good balance of carbs and protein, making it a satisfying option. Just remember, these numbers can shift a bit based on your choices—like using whole milk for creaminess or adjusting the sugar to your taste. So feel free to enjoy your moms old fashioned rice pudding knowing it’s both delicious and comforting!
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will give your moms old fashioned rice pudding a nuttier flavor and a slightly chewier texture. Just keep in mind that it may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust your simmering time accordingly.
What can I do if my pudding turns out too thick?
If your pudding gets thicker than you’d like, don’t panic! Just stir in a little extra milk, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. It’ll still be just as delicious!
Can I make this rice pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Moms old fashioned rice pudding actually tastes great when made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and give it a gentle stir with a splash of milk when you’re ready to serve!
Is it okay to use almond milk or other non-dairy milk?
Definitely! You can substitute almond milk or any other non-dairy milk for a delicious dairy-free version. Just remember that the flavor and creaminess may vary a bit, but it’ll still be comforting.
How do I prevent rice from sticking to the pot?
To keep your rice from sticking, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking. Also, stir occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from settling at the bottom. This will ensure a smooth and creamy pudding!
Moms Old Fashioned Rice Pudding: 5 Tips for Delicious Creaminess
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of rice
- 4 cups of milk
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water.
- In a pot, combine rice, milk, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir well.
- Cook for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Notes
- For creamier pudding, use whole milk.
- Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Can be served warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: moms old fashioned rice pudding, rice pudding, dessert
