Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding with Cinnamon Recipe

Introduction

Rice pudding is a comforting and creamy dessert made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. This recipe uses short-grain rice cooked slowly in milk to create a rich, sweet treat flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.

Ingredients

• 1 cup short-grain rice (Arborio or sushi)
• 4 cups whole milk (or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir gently and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Once boiling, add the cinnamon stick and vanilla extract. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the milk is absorbed.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted. Discard the cinnamon stick before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier pudding, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
• Try adding raisins or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• If using ground cinnamon, add it during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid bitterness.

Storage

Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of short-grain rice?

Brown rice can be used but will require a longer cooking time and results in a different texture. Short-grain rice is preferred for its creaminess.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the whole milk and butter with almond milk or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan-friendly version.

Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding with Cinnamon Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 131 reviews

This creamy and comforting Rice Pudding recipe combines tender short-grain rice with rich milk, warm cinnamon, and sweet vanilla. Perfect as a cozy dessert or snack, it’s easy to make on the stovetop and offers a delightful balance of sweetness and aromatic spice.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: International
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup short-grain rice (Arborio or sushi)
• 4 cups whole milk (or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Rinse the short-grain rice thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess starch. This step helps prevent the pudding from becoming overly sticky and ensures a creamier texture.
2. Combine ingredients and bring to boil: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir gently to mix. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which prepares the rice for softening.
3. Add cinnamon and vanilla, then simmer: Once boiling, add the cinnamon stick and vanilla extract to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the pudding to simmer gently. Stir occasionally for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the milk is absorbed, forming a creamy consistency.
4. Finish with butter and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick before serving the pudding warm or chilled.

Notes

• For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk.
• Stir frequently while simmering to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan.
• Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
• For extra texture, add raisins or chopped nuts in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Rice pudding can be served warm or chilled depending on preference.

Keywords: rice pudding, creamy rice dessert, cinnamon rice pudding, vanilla rice pudding, easy dessert recipe