This Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a timeless and comforting dessert that delivers warmth and sweetness in every bite. It’s made by slow-cooking rice in milk with a hint of vanilla and can be enjoyed warm or chilled. With a creamy texture and just a touch of cinnamon, this classic dish is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups whole milk, divided
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice (use a heaping half cup for extra creaminess)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon, optional for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk and Sugar:
In a large saucepan, combine 5 1/2 cups of whole milk, sugar, and salt. Stir continuously as you bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Make sure the sugar dissolves fully.
2. Cook the Rice:
Add the washed rice (a heaping 1/2 cup) to the boiling milk mixture. Stir well to combine, then reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Thicken the Pudding:
As the rice cooks, it will absorb the milk and thicken to a creamy consistency. Once the mixture has reached your preferred texture, remove it from the heat.
4. Add Vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness and flavor. Let the pudding cool slightly.
5. Final Touch:
Once the pudding has cooled a bit, stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of milk to adjust the texture if needed. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.
Tips:
- Use Long-Grain Rice for Creaminess:
Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe, as it gives a nice, tender texture without becoming too mushy. - Stir Regularly:
Stirring the rice pudding occasionally while it cooks is important to prevent the rice from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pan. - Serving Suggestions:
This rice pudding is delicious on its own, but you can also add toppings like raisins, toasted nuts, or even fresh fruit for an extra layer of flavor. - Adjusting Consistency:
If the pudding becomes too thick, simply stir in extra milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker texture, cook it a little longer to allow more of the liquid to absorb.
With its smooth, creamy texture and the comforting flavors of vanilla and cinnamon, this Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a delightful dessert that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious. Perfect for any time of the year, it’s an easy and satisfying treat that’s sure to bring warmth to your table.
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