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The Ultimate Creamy Old-Fashioned Stovetop Rice Pudding Recipe

A close-up shot of creamy rice pudding recipe served in a white bowl, generously dusted with cinnamon.

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Make this classic, comforting rice pudding from scratch on your stovetop. This recipe uses simple ingredients to achieve a perfectly creamy texture, flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Combine the rice, milk, and water in a large, 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. Cook uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes. The pudding is done when the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired creamy consistency.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully dissolved. The pudding will thicken more as it cools.
  5. Serve warm, sprinkled with extra ground cinnamon. You can also chill it and serve cold.

Notes

  • For an even creamier texture, substitute 1/2 cup of the whole milk with 1/2 cup of evaporated or condensed milk.
  • If you prefer rice pudding with raisins, stir in 1/2 cup of golden raisins during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  • Use Arborio rice for a richer, starchier result that helps create a very creamy dessert.

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