Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a comforting, creamy dessert made from simple ingredients you likely have on hand. With a smooth texture and a hint of vanilla, it’s a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 6 cups whole milk (divided)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup long grain white rice (heaping)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, combine 5 1/2 cups of the milk, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Stir in the rice, then reduce the heat to low. Adjust to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Step 3: Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 50 to 60 minutes until it thickens to the consistency of yogurt.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5: Let the pudding cool, then refrigerate. Just before serving, stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of milk and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use short grain rice for an even creamier texture.
- For a richer pudding, substitute part of the milk with cream.
- Add raisins or chopped nuts during cooking for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Storage
Store the rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, stir in the remaining milk just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave if you prefer it warm.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, although long grain white rice works best for this recipe, you can use short grain rice for a creamier pudding or brown rice for a nuttier flavor, but cooking times may vary.
What if my pudding is too thick or too thin?
If the pudding is too thick, stir in a little extra milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer gently until it reaches the desired consistency.
PrintOld-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made by slowly simmering long grain white rice in whole milk until thick and luscious. Sweetened with sugar and flavored with vanilla, it’s a classic treat perfect served chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups whole milk (divided)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup long grain white rice (heaping half cup)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients and Bring to Boil: In a large saucepan, pour 5 1/2 cups of whole milk, add sugar and salt, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Rice and Simmer: Stir in the rice, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Adjust heat carefully to avoid burning or bubbling over.
- Cook Until Thickened: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook for 50 to 60 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency similar to yogurt.
- Remove from Heat and Add Flavor: Once the pudding has thickened, remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the rice pudding to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of milk to loosen the pudding slightly, then sprinkle with ground cinnamon if desired for a warm, inviting touch.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture; reduced-fat milks will yield a thinner consistency.
- Stir the pudding occasionally during cooking to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan and burning.
- If you prefer a thicker or thinner pudding, adjust the simmering time accordingly.
- The rice type matters: long grain white rice works best for a less sticky pudding; short grain will be creamier but stickier.
- Rice pudding can be served warm or chilled, depending on preference.
Keywords: rice pudding, old-fashioned dessert, creamy rice pudding, vanilla rice pudding, stovetop dessert, comforting dessert