Rice Pudding

I have fond memories of my mom whipping up a batch of rice pudding for dessert on busy weeknights. We dished up the creamy, rich pudding treat in bowls and enjoyed it at the table or on the couch while watching a movie. Unlike many other pudding recipes, this rice pudding recipe relies on cooked rice as the base. When I was young, I found it impressive with every bite, but now, as an adult, I realize just how simple it is to make rice pudding for any occasion.

What is rice pudding?

This pudding is a vintage dessert that makes use of leftover rice. You can certainly use any type of rice you have on hand in a recipe for rice pudding. However, depending on the type of rice you use, there will be small differences in consistency. Types of rice with more starch will result in a creamier, thicker texture because of how starch is released when it comes into contact with liquid and heat. Long grain white rice and jasmine rice are excellent options.

The rice is then mixed with eggs, milk, sugar and spice. For the best consistency, our six-ingredient recipe shows how to cook rice pudding in the oven.

Rice Pudding Ingredients

• Cooked rice: Cooked plain rice is the base of our rice pudding recipe, making it a great way to use up leftovers. Of course, you can always use freshly cooked rice too.
• Raisins: Raisins add a touch of sweetness and plump up while baking in this recipe for rice pudding. You can choose to leave them out if preferred.
• Eggs: Eggs add moisture and create a creamy texture in this rice pudding recipe.
• Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy consistency for this dish. If you don’t have whole milk, using 2% milk is fine.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness, helping the recipe for rice pudding fall into the dessert category rather than in the savory side dish group.
• Nutmeg: Nutmeg warmly spices this rice pudding recipe. Feel free to increase the amount or add equal parts of cinnamon.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the ingredients

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Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 1-quart casserole dish. Place the rice and raisins in the greased casserole dish.

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In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar and nutmeg.

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Pour the mixture over the rice and raisins.

Step 2: Bake the rice pudding

Bake, uncovered, for 45 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the rice pudding to cool. Pour milk over each serving if desired.

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Recipe Variations

• Spice it up: This recipe for rice pudding uses nutmeg for a touch of spice, but you could certainly mix in other spices to complement that addition. Consider adding cinnamon or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile, along with vanilla extract.
• Go sweeter: How do you make rice pudding sweeter? Try sprinkling the top of the cooked rice pudding recipe with brown sugar, or drizzle it with honey or maple syrup.
• Add dried fruit: The choice to include raisins is up to you. If you prefer another option, try dried cranberries or blueberries for a pop of fruit.
• Use another milk: This recipe shows how to cook rice pudding with whole milk for a creamy texture. You could certainly use a nondairy milk option, or consider coconut milk for even more flavor.

How to Store Rice Pudding

Once rice pudding has been baked and cooled, it should be stored in the fridge. Cover the baking dish or transfer the rice pudding recipe to an airtight container.

How long does rice pudding last?

Stored in an airtight container, rice pudding will last up to three days in the fridge. Reheat leftovers either in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk during the reheating process for the best texture.

Can you freeze rice pudding?

Baked and cooled rice pudding leftovers can absolutely be frozen. Store the rice pudding in an airtight container or freezer bag for two to three months.

Rice Pudding Tips

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How can you make rice pudding thinner?

Due to the baking process and the eggs in the mixture, the rice pudding recipe will thicken after baking. If you prefer a thinner rice pudding, simply stir in a tablespoon of milk while reheating it.

Can you keep cooked rice in the freezer?

Keep leftover cooked rice on hand so you can use it to make rice pudding anytime. Pack cooled, cooked rice in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to six months. When the time comes to use it, thaw the rice in the fridge overnight.

Do you serve rice pudding cold?

The temperature at which you serve rice pudding is all up to personal preference. Some people prefer to enjoy it warm, while others let it cool in the pan before serving. For a thicker consistency, our rice pudding recipe can also be enjoyed cold.

How do you serve rice pudding?

A recipe for rice pudding offers a great canvas for a variety of toppings. Serve it on its own, or consider adding fresh fruit, strawberry preserves, nuts, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top.