Cinnamon-Scented Rice Pudding
A warm, comforting cinnamon-scented rice pudding with tender rice, sweet raisins, and a hint of lemon and vanilla. Its creamy texture and aromatic flavors make it perfect for cozy evenings or satisfying dessert cravings, suitable for both family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 3 cups water, uncooked rice, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 (3-inch) strip lemon rind, and 1 (3-inch) stick cinnamon in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the rice mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add 3 cups milk to the saucepan.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup milk and the egg, stirring with a wire whisk.
- Gradually stir about 1/4 of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture to temper it.
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and stir well.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and discard the lemon rind and cinnamon stick.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and golden raisins.
- Serve warm or chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier rice pudding, consider using Arborio rice instead of short grain rice, as it has a higher starch content. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar slightly or add a touch of honey. To enhance the cinnamon flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon along with the stick. For a dairy-free version, substitute almond or coconut milk for the 2% milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Yams And Apples for a comforting meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of nuts or fresh fruit, such as berries, for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also microwave individual servings for quick reheating, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon-Scented Rice Pudding contains roughly 1338 calories, with 18g protein, 261g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this rice pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice pudding a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I use instead of golden raisins?
If you don't have golden raisins, you can substitute regular raisins or even dried cranberries for a tart twist. For a fresher option, consider adding chopped fresh fruit like apples or pears, which can complement the cinnamon flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make this rice pudding vegan, use plant-based milk like almond milk and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help achieve a similar creamy texture while keeping the dish completely dairy-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).