Oh, let me tell you about old fashioned rice pudding! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, taking me straight back to my childhood. It’s such a classic dessert, made with simple ingredients that come together to create that creamy, comforting goodness we all crave. I love how it fills the kitchen with its sweet, nostalgic aroma while it cooks. Every spoonful is a reminder of cozy family dinners and dessert nights. Trust me, once you make this creamy delight, you’ll be hooked! It’s perfect for any occasion or just when you need a little comfort in your life.
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best old fashioned rice pudding! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of rinsed rice – I usually go for long-grain or arborio for that perfect creaminess.
- 4 cups of whole milk – This is where the richness comes from, so don’t skimp!
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt – It enhances the taste, so trust me on this one!
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract – Adds that lovely warm note we all adore.
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon – A sprinkle of warmth that makes it feel like home.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – These help to thicken the pudding and give it that luscious texture.
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking—it’s part of the fun!
How to Prepare Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
Preparing old fashioned rice pudding is like crafting a warm bowl of nostalgia, and I promise you, it’s easier than you might think! Start by rinsing your rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This step is crucial because it helps achieve that creamy consistency we all love. Next, grab a large pot and combine the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Bring it all to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking! After that, slowly add in the beaten eggs while stirring constantly to blend everything together. This is where the magic happens, as the eggs thicken the pudding beautifully. Stir in your vanilla extract and cinnamon, then let it cook for another 5 minutes. Finally, remove it from the heat and let it cool down a bit before serving. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, 4 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slowly add the 2 beaten eggs while stirring to combine, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, cooking for another 5 minutes while stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This old fashioned rice pudding is a true gem that you’ll find yourself making over and over again! Here’s why it’s so special:
- It’s incredibly simple to make, with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have.
- The flavor is warm and comforting, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings.
- It’s versatile! You can enjoy it warm or chilled, and customize it with toppings like raisins, nuts, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
- It brings back those nostalgic memories of childhood and home-cooked meals, making it a delightful treat for all ages.
Tips for Success
To really nail your old fashioned rice pudding, keep these tips in mind! First, be sure to rinse your rice thoroughly; this helps prevent it from becoming too gummy. If you prefer a thicker pudding, let it simmer a bit longer, but stir more frequently to avoid sticking. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon, or even a splash of almond extract for a fun twist! And remember, letting it cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy it warm for that cozy feeling or chilled for a refreshing treat!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for one serving of old fashioned rice pudding (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 15g
It’s a delightful treat that balances indulgence with some nutritional goodness!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving old fashioned rice pudding, the possibilities are endless! I love to top mine with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra warmth, or a handful of plump raisins for a chewy contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some toasted almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch. You can also pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat. And for a refreshing twist, serve it alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of honey. Trust me, these little extras make each spoonful even more delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your old fashioned rice pudding properly is key to enjoying it later! Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days, but trust me, it won’t last that long if you’ve got a family around! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you prefer it warm, you can also gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick. Enjoy your cozy treat again and again!
FAQ Section
Got questions about old fashioned rice pudding? Here are some common ones I hear:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that brown rice may take longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free version.
How can I make it less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar to your taste; just remember that it will affect the overall flavor.
Can I add other flavors?
Definitely! Try incorporating lemon zest or a splash of maple syrup for a fun twist.
How do I prevent it from sticking to the pot?
Stir frequently while it simmers to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. A non-stick pot helps too!
Old Fashioned Rice Pudding: 5 Creamy Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar, creating a creamy and comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of rice
- 4 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 2 eggs (beaten)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water.
- In a large pot, combine rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add beaten eggs slowly while stirring to combine.
- Stir in vanilla and cinnamon.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or chilled.
- Can be topped with raisins or nuts.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: old fashioned rice pudding
