Easy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Easy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
There’s something timeless about a bowl of warm, creamy rice pudding. It evokes memories of cozy kitchens, the scent of cinnamon in the air, and the simple comfort of homemade desserts. This Easy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe takes classic ingredients and turns them into a dessert that’s both nostalgic and effortlessly satisfying. Whether served warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, it’s a dessert that comforts the soul and delights the taste buds.
I remember helping my grandmother make rice pudding when I was little. She would gather all the ingredients—Minute Rice, milk, butter, sugar, and a sprinkle of nutmeg—and carefully stir everything together in a buttered dish. The aroma that filled the kitchen as it baked was unforgettable. By the time it was ready, the pudding was thick and creamy, with the raisins plump and sweet, and the top lightly dusted with cinnamon. There’s something special about desserts like this—they remind us of family, tradition, and simple pleasures.
What makes this recipe so approachable is its simplicity. Using Minute Rice cuts down on cooking time without sacrificing texture, while the combination of milk, sugar, and butter creates a rich, comforting base. Nutmeg and cinnamon add warm, fragrant notes that enhance the sweet, creamy pudding, and raisins provide a burst of natural sweetness in every bite. It’s a dessert that’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion.
Easy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
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2/3 c. Minute Rice
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2 3/4 c. milk
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1/3 c. sugar
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1 tbsp. butter
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1/2 tsp. salt
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1/2 tsp. vanilla
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1/4 tsp. nutmeg
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Cinnamon
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1/2 c. raisins
Instructions
First step: Combine Minute Rice, milk & raisins, sugar, butter, salt, vanilla & nutmeg in a buttered 1-quart baking dish.
Second step: Bake in 350°F oven for 1 hour, stirring after 15 minutes & again when pudding is done.
Third step: Sprinkle with cinnamon.
Finally step: Serve warm or chilled. Pudding thickens as it stands.
Cooking Tips and Variations
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Milk options: Whole milk gives the creamiest results, but 2% or almond milk works for lighter versions.
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Sweetness adjustments: Adjust sugar to taste, especially if using sweetened raisins.
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Add-ins: Try chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a handful of chocolate chips for a fun twist.
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Spice variations: A pinch of ground cloves or cardamom can add an extra layer of warmth.
Serving Ideas
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Comfort dessert: Serve warm with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a cozy night in.
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Chilled treat: Refrigerate for several hours for a refreshing summer dessert.
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Breakfast option: Top with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a sweet, creamy breakfast pudding.
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Holiday favorite: Make a double batch for festive gatherings; it pairs beautifully with spiced beverages like chai or eggnog.
Storage Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the pudding if needed.
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Freezer: Rice pudding can be frozen, but texture may change slightly; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use long-grain rice instead of Minute Rice?
A: Yes, but you will need to cook it longer on the stovetop first to achieve the same creamy texture.
Q2: Can I make this pudding vegan?
A: Substitute almond milk or another plant-based milk, and use a vegan butter alternative.
Q3: Can I omit the raisins?
A: Absolutely! The pudding will still be delicious, and you can add other dried fruits or fresh berries instead.
Q4: How do I make it extra creamy?
A: Stir in an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream after baking.
