Easy Rice Pudding Recipe: You’ll Want to Make It Again and Again

Last Updated on May 6, 2025 by Souhail

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of creamy rice pudding, it’s cozy, nostalgic, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat. This version leans into the classic European style: soft, custardy, and full of vanilla-scented goodness.

Made with whole milk, cream, a bit of butter, and just the right amount of sugar, it’s rich without being too heavy. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and super easy to tweak for dairy-free or vegan needs.

Serve it warm for peak comfort vibes, or chill it and top with fruit, caramel, or a sprinkle of nutmeg, it’s one of those desserts that always feels just right.

Why This Recipe Works

Rice pudding recipes can vary significantly, but the secret to truly great rice pudding lies in three main components: the rice, the liquid, and the cooking method. Let’s break down why this recipe stands out and why you’ll find yourself returning to it time and time again.

1. The Perfect Rice Choice
   This recipe uses arborio rice, known for its high starch content that creates a creamy, thick pudding without extra thickeners. While jasmine or basmati can work, they lack arborio’s luxurious consistency.
2. A Slow, Gentle Simmer
   Achieving the perfect texture is all about patience. By simmering the rice slowly in milk and cream, you allow the grains to absorb the liquid gradually, releasing their starch and creating a luscious, velvety pudding. Skipping this step or rushing the process can lead to a grainy texture, not what we’re going for!
3. Customizable Sweetness and Flavor
   This recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweetness, allowing the natural flavor of the milk and rice to shine. Want more or less sugar? No problem. Prefer a cinnamon-forward pudding instead of vanilla? Go for it! This flexibility means you can tailor the dish to your taste and never grow tired of it.
4. A Rich, Yet Balanced Profile
   Using a blend of whole milk and heavy cream gives the pudding richness without making it overly heavy. A pat of butter at the end enhances the flavor and sheen, while a pinch of salt cuts through the sweetness, making the pudding irresistible.
5. Dietary Flexibility
   Need a vegan option? Swap out the dairy for coconut milk or almond milk, and use a plant-based butter substitute. Watching your sugar intake? A natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit works just as well.

Ingredients Breakdown

This rice pudding recipe requires simple, pantry-staple ingredients. Here’s the breakdown of what you’ll need, along with notes on substitutions and special additions to elevate the dish.

Ingredients

1. Arborio Rice: 1 cup
   • Arborio rice is ideal because of its high starch content, which ensures a creamy pudding. You can substitute it with jasmine or basmati rice in a pinch, but expect a lighter texture.
2. Whole Milk: 4 cups
   • Whole milk adds richness and creaminess to the pudding. You can substitute with 2% milk for a slightly lighter version or use a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut milk for a vegan option.
3. Heavy Cream: 1 cup
   • For added indulgence, heavy cream makes the pudding luxurious. If you prefer a lighter pudding, omit this and use more milk instead.
4. Granulated Sugar: ½ cup
   • Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup also work well, though they might slightly alter the flavor.
5. Butter: 1 tablespoon
   • A small amount of butter enriches the flavor and gives the pudding a smooth, glossy finish. Use a plant-based butter substitute if needed.
6. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
   • Vanilla lends warmth and depth to the pudding. For an extra-special touch, use the seeds of a vanilla bean pod.
7. Salt: ¼ teaspoon
   • Just a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
8. Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg (Optional): ½ teaspoon
   • These spices add a cozy warmth to the pudding. Add one or both based on your flavor preference.
9. Optional Toppings:
   • Fresh Fruit (berries, sliced bananas, or diced mango)
   • Toasted Nuts (almonds, pistachios, or pecans)
   • Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle
   • Raisins or Dried Cranberries

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the Ingredients (5 minutes): Measure out all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process. Rinse the rice under cold water if desired, though this step is optional as the starch on the rice contributes to the pudding’s creaminess.

• Combine Milk and Rice (5 minutes): In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the milk and arborio rice. Stir well to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

• Simmer the Rice (30-35 minutes): Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, stirring occasionally to ensure the rice doesn’t clump or scorch. This slow cooking allows the rice to absorb the milk gradually and release its starch, resulting in a thick, creamy consistency.
  • Tip: Avoid high heat, as it can cause the milk to scorch or boil over.

• Incorporate Sugar and Cream (5 minutes): Once the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened, stir in the sugar and heavy cream. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

• Add Flavorings (2 minutes): Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If using spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, mix them in now.

• Cool and Serve (10 minutes): Let the pudding cool slightly, as it will thicken further as it cools. Serve warm for a comforting dessert or refrigerate for a chilled, refreshing treat.
  • Tip: To prevent a skin from forming on the pudding as it cools, press a sheet of plastic wrap directly onto the surface.

Pro Tips for Successful Rice Pudding Recipe

1. Choose the Right Pot
   A heavy-bottomed saucepan prevents the milk from burning and ensures even heat distribution. Non-stick options work well to minimize sticking.
2. Stir Regularly, but Not Constantly
   Stir often enough to prevent the rice from sticking but avoid over-stirring, as it can break down the rice and make the pudding mushy.
3. Don’t Rush the Process
   Low and slow is the key. The gradual absorption of liquid is what makes rice pudding creamy and decadent.
4. Test for Doneness
   The rice should be tender but not mushy. Taste a small spoonful to check the texture before adding sugar and cream.
5. Adjust Sweetness
   Sweetness is subjective. Start with ½ cup of sugar, taste after mixing, and adjust as needed. Remember, toppings like caramel or fruit will add additional sweetness.
6. Experiment with Spices
   While vanilla is a classic choice, spices like cardamom, clove, or even a splash of rosewater can add a new twist.
7. Toppings Make the Dish
   A simple bowl of rice pudding becomes a showstopper with the right toppings. From caramelized bananas to crunchy granola, get creative and tailor it to the occasion.

Variants of the Recipe

One of rice pudding’s greatest strengths is its versatility. From cultural classics to creative twists, here are a few favorites:

Caramelized Sugar Crust
Top with sugar and torch it for a crème brûlée-style crackly crust over creamy pudding.

Arroz con Leche
Latin American style with three kinds of milk, cinnamon sticks, and citrus zest, finished with ground cinnamon.

Indian Kheer
Made with basmati rice, cardamom, and garnished with saffron, nuts, and sometimes rosewater. Coconut milk works for a vegan version.

Middle Eastern Roz Bel Laban
Short-grain rice, sweetened milk, and a splash of orange blossom or rosewater. Served chilled with crushed pistachios.

Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding
Uses full-fat coconut milk for richness, lime zest for brightness, and toasted coconut flakes on top.

Chocolate Rice Pudding
Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a fudgy twist. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Fruit-Infused
Add diced apples, mangoes, or peaches while cooking, or swirl in jam or compote. Berries make great toppings.

Recipe Card

Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe

Recipe by Souhail

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DessertDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

280

kcal

A timeless dessert that’s rich, creamy, and infinitely customizable. This rice pudding is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice

• 4 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• Optional: ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg

• Optional Toppings

• Fresh fruits, toasted nuts, caramel drizzle, or raisins

Directions

• Prepare Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients. Rinse the rice under cold water if desired.
• Combine Rice and Milk: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the milk and arborio rice. Stir to prevent sticking.
• Simmer Slowly: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens.
• Add Sugar and Cream: Stir in the sugar and heavy cream, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Flavor It: Remove from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, salt, and optional spices. Mix well.
• Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings.

Notes

• To prevent a skin from forming while cooling, press plastic wrap onto the surface of the pudding.
• Adjust the sweetness and spices to your preference.

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FAQs

Printable Shopping List

Here’s your quick shopping list for this recipe:

Basics

• Arborio rice
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Optional Additions

• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, caramel, raisins

Final Thoughts

Rice pudding recipe is more than just a dessert, it’s a hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture, warm spices, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, cozying up with a bowl on a chilly night, or treating yourself to a decadent snack, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the timeless magic of rice pudding. Once you’ve tried this recipe, I guarantee you’ll be making it again and again. If you loved this, don’t miss my other comforting dessert recipes like The Best Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe for Rich, Velvety Texture. Happy cooking!