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The Ultimate Creamy Old Fashioned Stovetop Rice Pudding

Close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy rice pudding generously dusted with cinnamon.

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Make this classic, comforting rice pudding on the stovetop for a rich, velvety texture. This old fashioned recipe uses simple ingredients to create a nostalgic, creamy dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup short-grain white rice (Arborio or medium-grain works well)
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Combine the rice, water, and milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. You want the mixture to maintain a very low, slow bubble.
  3. Cook uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes. The rice should absorb much of the liquid and become tender, and the mixture should thicken significantly. Stir more frequently toward the end of the cooking time.
  4. If using raisins, stir them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  5. When the pudding is thick and creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
  6. The pudding will thicken more as it cools. If you prefer a very thick pudding, let it sit off the heat for 10 minutes before serving.
  7. Serve warm or chill completely. If chilling, the pudding will become much firmer. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving.

Notes

  • For the creamiest result, use whole milk and do not rush the cooking process; low and slow heat prevents scorching and allows the starch to release properly.
  • If the pudding becomes too thick upon cooling, stir in a splash of milk when reheating or serving.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic base for a Kozy Shack copycat when chilled.

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