The Ultimate Rice Pudding...Raisins Optional
Creamy, comforting rice pudding with vanilla and optional raisins, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert that appeals to all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the rice and cook it in 6 cups of milk with a pinch of salt over low heat, simmering for 20 minutes until tender.
- Add the sugar to the rice and continue simmering until the mixture thickens.
- Blend the eggs with 1/2 cup of milk separately.
- Add the egg and milk mixture along with vanilla to the cooked rice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the heavy whipping cream and return to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in raisins if using.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to taste, then cool and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use short-grain rice like Arborio for a creamier texture. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. To enhance flavors, try adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. You can also swap half of the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a different twist. This recipe pairs beautifully with Crumb Topped Brussels Sprouts as a side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or warm, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. For an added touch, garnish with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. This rice pudding is delightful on its own or can be paired with a dollop of whipped cream. For a unique dessert experience, consider serving it alongside Color Cookies for a fun contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the rice pudding gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Ultimate Rice Pudding...Raisins Optional contains roughly 1116 calories, with 7g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), potassium (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 809mg per serving (35% 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 use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Expect to simmer it for about 40-50 minutes in the milk until tender. The texture will be chewier and the flavor nuttier, making it a wholesome alternative.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond, coconut, or oat milk. Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for richness. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly depending on the milk alternative you choose.
How can I make this recipe low-sugar?
To reduce sugar, you can use less sugar than the recipe calls for, or substitute it with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol. You can also enhance the sweetness naturally with mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce, which will give a unique flavor while lowering the sugar content.
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).