There’s a cozy kind of magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is that timeless dessert that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. Creamy, lightly sweetened, and kissed with a touch of nutmeg or cinnamon on top, this is comfort food at its finest.

Whether you’re serving it warm straight from the stovetop or chilled after a night in the fridge, rice pudding is a satisfying treat that feels both nostalgic and wholesome. It’s a dish that reminds many of childhood, yet still delights adults with its subtle elegance and rich texture.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

It’s made with pantry staples like rice, milk, sugar, and eggs.
The creamy texture and sweet aroma make it irresistible.
It’s a great make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day.
You can easily customize it with raisins, vanilla, cinnamon, or nutmeg.
It works for weeknight treats or holiday tables alike.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

For the creamiest pudding, choose short-grain or medium-grain white rice, like Arborio or even sushi rice. These varieties release more starch during cooking, which helps give the pudding its luscious texture. Avoid long-grain rice like basmati, which tends to stay separate and doesn’t offer the same creaminess.

Ingredients for the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavor.

White rice: A starchy short or medium grain provides the creamy base.
Whole milk: Gives the pudding richness and body.
Sugar: For sweetness that enhances the natural flavors.
Eggs: Help thicken the pudding and add a custard-like quality.
Butter: Adds a touch of richness and smooth mouthfeel.
Vanilla extract: Brings warm, fragrant flavor.
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg: For that warm spiced topping.
Salt: Just a pinch sharpens all the sweet flavors.

How To Make the Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Cook the rice in water until it’s just tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain any excess water.

Step 2: Simmer the Pudding Base

In a saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently so the milk doesn’t scorch.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs

Beat the eggs in a small bowl. Slowly add a ladle of the hot milk mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly. Then return the egg mixture to the saucepan, stirring well.

Step 4: Thicken and Finish

Continue cooking for 5-10 minutes until the pudding thickens. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

Spoon into serving dishes and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg. Enjoy warm, or refrigerate until chilled.

How to Serve and Store This Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

This creamy dessert yields about 6 generous servings, perfect for a family dessert or to stretch into the week. Serve it warm for a cozy night-in, or cold with a bit of whipped cream or fresh berries for a refreshing twist.

To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It may thicken as it cools, so add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.

What to Serve With Old Fashioned Rice Pudding?

Warmed Apple Compote

The tartness of apples with a hint of cinnamon perfectly complements the creamy sweetness.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add freshness and color.

Chai or Spiced Tea

The spiced notes enhance the comforting feel of the pudding.

Ginger Cookies

A crunchy sidekick that pairs delightfully with the soft texture.

Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche

A dollop on top makes it feel extra indulgent.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle for a decadent finishing touch.

Roasted Nuts

Add some crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft rice.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you love this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding, explore other comforting treats that balance flavor and texture beautifully:

Magic Lemon Cobbler with a sunny citrus lift.
Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins for rich, bakery-style bliss.
Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth classic.
Peach Cobbler Crumble Bars that marry fruity sweetness and buttery crunch.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try raisins or keep it classic? Warm or chilled? I love hearing your kitchen twists.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more at Nora Nosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good flavor.

Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

If you’re looking for a classic dessert that never goes out of style, this Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is your perfect go-to. Rich, creamy, and gently spiced, it’s the kind of comfort dessert that works just as well for cozy nights in as it does for elegant dinners. This easy recipe is made with simple pantry staples and delivers that nostalgic flavor many of us grew up loving. Whether you’re hunting for quick breakfast ideas, an easy dessert, or wholesome food ideas, this pudding fits it all — and it gets better with time.