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–+ servings
Rice Pudding
This classic rice pudding recipe is a cozy and comforting dessert that transforms humble pantry staples into a creamy, custard-like treat. With tender grains of rice suspended in a rich mixture of milk and eggs, and delicately flavored with vanilla, this dish exemplifies traditional American comfort food. It’s simple enough for everyday meals, yet nostalgic enough to grace holiday tables. A hint of cinnamon on top adds warmth and aroma, enhancing its homey appeal. This version skips the raisins, letting the texture and flavor of the rice shine through.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 256 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup rice
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • cinnamon (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook Rice

  • Boil ¾ cup rice for 15 minutes.
  • Drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare Custard Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine milk, vanilla, sugar, salt, and slightly beaten eggs.
  • Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Custard

  • Stir the drained rice into the milk-egg mixture.
  • Mix until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake

  • Pour mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
  • Sprinkle cinnamon lightly over the top (optional).
  • Place casserole in a pan of hot water (water bath).

Step 5: Finish Baking

  • Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips

  • Use whole milk for the richest, creamiest texture.
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before baking for warm spice notes.
  • Stir in raisins or dried fruit before baking for a classic variation.
  • Substitute part of the milk with half-and-half for extra custard richness.
  • Serve warm with a splash of cream or cold straight from the refrigerator.
  • Bake the casserole in a water bath for an even silkier texture.
  • Leftovers thicken nicely and make an excellent next-day dessert.

Nutrition

Calories: 256kcalCarbohydrates: 41gProtein: 9gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 97mgSodium: 91mgPotassium: 244mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 317IUVitamin C: 0.01mgCalcium: 169mgIron: 1mg
Keyword baked pudding, comfort food, custard-style, family recipe, old fashioned, vintage dessert
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