Rice pudding is a timeless dessert that has been enjoyed across cultures for generations. It’s a simple, comforting treat made with basic pantry ingredients, yet it yields a rich, creamy, and delicious result. Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a classic recipe that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this delightful rice pudding, along with some tips and variations to make it your own.
Ingredients
To make Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 cups milk (2 percent recommended)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup white rice
- 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and white rice. The milk provides the creamy base for the pudding, while the sugar adds the necessary sweetness. Using white rice ensures that the pudding will have a smooth texture.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. This step is crucial as it helps to dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the rice throughout the milk. Be careful not to let the milk scorch or boil over.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to just below a simmer. Cover the saucepan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened. This should take about 30 minutes. The key here is to cook the rice slowly so it absorbs the milk and becomes creamy.
Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
After the rice has cooked and the pudding has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a wonderful depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the pudding. Adjust the amount of vanilla according to your preference.
Step 5: Let It Set
Keep the saucepan covered and let the pudding sit for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set further. Stir the pudding once more before serving to ensure a smooth consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. If you like your pudding warm, serve it directly from the saucepan. For a chilled version, transfer the pudding to a bowl or individual serving dishes and refrigerate for a few hours. Optionally, sprinkle cinnamon on top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips and Variations
While the basic recipe for Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is delicious on its own, there are several tips and variations you can try to customize it to your taste:
Tips
- Stirring Constantly: Stirring constantly while bringing the mixture to a boil and during the initial simmering stages helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking.
- Milk Alternatives: For a richer pudding, you can use whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond milk, coconut milk, or another plant-based milk.
- Texture Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker pudding, cook it for a few extra minutes. Conversely, if you like it creamier, add a bit more milk towards the end of the cooking process.
Variations
- Raisin Rice Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of raisins to the pudding during the last 10 minutes of cooking. The raisins will plump up and add a sweet, chewy texture to the pudding.
- Spiced Rice Pudding: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom along with the cinnamon. These spices will give the pudding a warm, aromatic quality.
- Fruit-Topped Rice Pudding: Serve the pudding with a topping of fresh or stewed fruits, such as berries, peaches, or apples. The fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pudding.
- Chocolate Rice Pudding: For a chocolate twist, stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or cocoa powder during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The chocolate will melt and blend into the pudding, creating a decadent dessert.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk and add a handful of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
The Comfort of Homemade Pudding
Homemade rice pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic treat that evokes memories of home and family. The simplicity of this dish, combined with its rich, comforting flavor, makes it a favorite for people of all ages. It’s a perfect dessert to make when you’re craving something sweet and comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
Rice pudding is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Warm with a Dollop of Cream: Serve the pudding warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Chilled with Fresh Fruit: Chill the pudding and top it with fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas, for a refreshing dessert.
- With a Drizzle of Honey: For a simple yet delicious variation, drizzle a bit of honey over the top of the pudding before serving.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover rice pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency. Chilled rice pudding can be enjoyed straight from the fridge for a quick and satisfying snack.
Conclusion
Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a timeless dessert that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. By following this simple recipe and incorporating some of the tips and variations, you can create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm or chilled, this rice pudding is a comforting treat that brings the warmth and love of home to your table. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy the delightful process of making and savoring this classic rice pudding.
Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding: A Classic Comfort Dessert
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy and comforting dessert that harkens back to simpler times. This classic recipe combines cooked rice with milk, sugar, and a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, creating a rich and delicious pudding that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
5 cups milk I use 2 percent
1 cup sugar
1 cup white rice
1 or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
Cinnamon if desired
Instructions
Combine all ingredients
Bring to boil stirring
Turn down to below simmer
Cover cook until rice tender & consistency thickens
About 30 minutes
Turn off stir keep covered & let set 15 more minutes
Put into fridge or serve warm
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg