Description
This Vanilla Rice Pudding recipe is a rich and creamy dessert made with Arborio rice, whole milk, and infused with warm vanilla flavor. Perfectly sweetened and comforting, it’s a classic dessert that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop in just 5 straightforward steps. Serve it warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh fruit for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional Toppings
- Ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Fresh fruit or chocolate chips (for serving)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing 1 cup Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring a smoother pudding texture.
- Cook the Rice: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 4 cups whole milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and creamy, about 35-40 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Butter: Stir in 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon butter into the cooked rice mixture. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve completely and the pudding to thicken to desired consistency.
- Flavor with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to infuse the pudding with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the rice pudding into serving dishes. Optionally, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top or add fresh fruit or chocolate chips as desired. Serve warm or chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- Arborio rice is preferred for its creamy texture but you can substitute with other short-grain rice varieties.
- Stirring frequently during cooking prevents the rice from sticking and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste if you prefer a less sweet pudding.
- The pudding thickens as it cools; add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.
- Serve chilled by refrigerating for at least 2 hours for a refreshing dessert option.
