Description
This creamy and comforting Rice Pudding recipe combines Arborio rice simmered gently with milk, water, and sugar, infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors. Perfect as a cozy dessert or a sweet snack, it can be enjoyed warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon and optional golden raisins for added sweetness.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 4½ cups whole milk
- 1½ cups water
Dry and Flavoring Ingredients
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick (3 or 4 inches long)
- 1 cup Arborio rice (or Boomba rice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- ⅔ cup golden raisins (optional)
- Ground or freshly grated cinnamon for topping
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the whole milk, water, granulated sugar, one cinnamon stick, and Arborio rice. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Bring to Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to an intense simmer just below boiling, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Cook Rice: Once simmering, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Continue cooking and stirring often for about 35 to 45 minutes until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens to a consistency similar to thin oatmeal. Expect some liquid to remain, as it will thicken further upon cooling.
- Add Vanilla and Raisins: Remove the saucepan from heat and take out the cinnamon stick. Stir in the vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract. If using, mix in the golden raisins evenly into the pudding.
- Cool the Pudding: Spoon the rice pudding into individual ramekins or a large serving dish. Let it cool slightly before serving, or cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day if preparing in advance.
- Serve with Cinnamon: Just before serving, sprinkle the pudding with freshly grated or ground cinnamon. The pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- Use Arborio rice for its creamy texture, but Boomba rice or other short-grain rice can be substituted.
- Stir frequently to prevent rice from sticking or burning at the bottom.
- Golden raisins add sweetness and texture but can be omitted.
- The pudding thickens as it cools, so adjust liquid if a thinner consistency is preferred.
- Can be served warm or cold, depending on preference.
- Store in the refrigerator covered for up to 1 day for best freshness.
