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The Ultimate Creamy, Old-Fashioned Stovetop Rice Pudding

A close-up of creamy rice pudding topped generously with ground cinnamon in a white bowl.

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Make the creamiest, old-fashioned rice pudding right on your stovetop. This classic comfort food dessert uses simple ingredients and results in tender grains and rich vanilla flavor, perfect served warm or chilled.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain well.
  2. Combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, sugar, and salt in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low.
  5. Cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes. The pudding is done when the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. It will thicken more as it cools.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Serve the rice pudding warm, or cover and chill completely for a cold dessert. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving.

Notes

  • For an ultra-creamy texture, stir the pudding often, especially during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  • If the pudding becomes too thick upon cooling, stir in a splash of milk to reach your preferred consistency.
  • This recipe is delicious made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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