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Classic Creamy Stovetop Rice Pudding

A close-up of a bowl of creamy rice pudding recipe generously dusted with ground cinnamon.

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Make a rich and creamy rice pudding on the stovetop using simple ingredients. This recipe focuses on achieving a smooth, comforting texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup short-grain white rice (Arborio or medium-grain works best)
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 large egg yolk (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain well.
  2. Combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, sugar, and salt in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the milk just begins to simmer around the edges. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes to prevent sticking and scorching on the bottom.
  5. Continue simmering for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency. The pudding will thicken more as it cools.
  6. If using raisins, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk lightly. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Slowly temper the egg yolk by whisking in about 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture into the yolk.
  8. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan and stir constantly for 1 minute. Do not return to the heat.
  9. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
  10. Serve warm, or chill completely for a firmer texture. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving.

Notes

  • For the creamiest result, use whole milk and stir often during the slow simmer.
  • If the pudding becomes too thick while cooling, stir in a splash of extra milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • Do not substitute short-grain rice; long-grain rice will not absorb the liquid correctly for this creamy texture.

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