Southern Rice Pudding
A comforting Southern rice pudding with warm spices and raisins, perfect for cozy desserts or family gatherings, offering creamy texture and aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a 2-quart bowl, beat eggs until foamy.
- Slowly add sugar and continue beating until sugar is dissolved.
- Add vanilla to milk, then pour the mixture over eggs and sugar, stirring well to combine.
- Add the cooled rice and stir to mix thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Stir in raisins if using.
- Top with pats of butter around the edge and in the middle to melt evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes until the mixture is light brown and bubbly on top.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool.
- Serve with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting a portion of the milk with heavy cream. If you're short on time, use leftover cooked rice to speed up the process. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste. A sprinkle of salt can enhance the flavors. This rice pudding pairs beautifully with Jalapeno Peach Dip for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor. This dish is versatile and can be a delightful breakfast or dessert. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. For a unique twist, consider serving alongside Bread Puddin' for a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick. For best results, avoid reheating more than once to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Rice Pudding contains roughly 38 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 use a different type of rice for this pudding?
Yes, while traditional Southern rice pudding typically uses white rice, you can experiment with short-grain rice for a creamier texture. Brown rice can be used as well, but it may alter the cooking time and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular milk with almond milk or coconut milk to create a dairy-free version. You can also use a dairy-free butter alternative for richness. Just keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you prefer, you can replace raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even fresh berries for a different flavor profile. Each option will provide a unique twist to your Southern rice pudding.
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).