Creamy Vanilla Cinnamon Rice Pudding is a rich, comforting dessert that’s sweet, creamy, and infused with warm cinnamon and fragrant vanilla. This classic dish is easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold. Whether you serve it as a cozy after-dinner treat or a simple snack, this rice pudding is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (preferably medium or short grain for creaminess)
- 4 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Add Milk and Cinnamon
Once the rice is cooked, add the milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the milk from scorching.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice Pudding
Continue to simmer the rice pudding for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture has thickened and the rice is creamy. If the pudding becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Stir in Butter and Vanilla
Once the rice pudding is creamy and rich, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully combined. The butter adds extra creaminess and richness to the pudding.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the rice pudding into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for a decorative touch. You can serve the rice pudding warm or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours and serve it cold. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Rice Choice: Medium or short-grain rice works best for rice pudding because it creates a creamier texture. Long-grain rice can be used but won’t be as creamy.
- Milk: For a richer pudding, substitute some or all of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Consistency: If the pudding becomes too thick, simply add more milk and stir until it reaches your desired consistency.
Variations
1. Raisin Cinnamon Rice Pudding
Add ½ cup of raisins during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a classic touch of sweetness.
2. Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding
Replace half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor. You can also top it with toasted coconut flakes for an added crunch.
3. Chocolate Rice Pudding
Stir in ¼ cup of cocoa powder and a few tablespoons of melted chocolate during the simmering process for a decadent chocolate version.
4. Caramel Rice Pudding
Top the rice pudding with a drizzle of caramel sauce just before serving for an extra indulgent twist.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version:
- Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Use heavy cream or coconut milk instead of milk for added richness.
- Replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
These changes will lower the carb content while still offering a creamy, delicious dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make rice pudding ahead of time?
Yes! Rice pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra milk if needed to loosen the pudding.
Q: Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have cooked rice on hand, you can skip the first step and simply start by simmering the milk, sugar, and cinnamon with the cooked rice until thick and creamy.
Q: How do I store leftover rice pudding?
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze rice pudding?
While rice pudding can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, store the cooled pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir in extra milk to restore creaminess.
This Creamy Vanilla Cinnamon Rice Pudding is the perfect dessert for anyone craving a sweet, comforting treat. With its smooth texture and warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, this simple recipe will become a favorite for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. Whether served warm or cold, this rice pudding is a deliciously satisfying dessert you’ll love.