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Rice pudding recipe easy that’s what I searched for the first time I tried to recreate my grandma’s famous dessert. I wanted that same creamy texture, warm vanilla flavor, and nostalgic comfort… but without spending hours in the kitchen. What I discovered was a simple way to bring that childhood memory back to life with just a handful of pantry staples.
This easy rice pudding recipe is warm, creamy, and cozy perfect whether you’re baking it in the oven or simmering it on the stove. And yes, it works beautifully with leftover rice too.
Hi, I’m Lora the heart behind Cheflora Recipes. Here, I share simple recipes like this one that turn everyday ingredients into something meaningful. Welcome to my kitchen. Let’s cook something wonderful together.
Table of Contents
KEY TAKEAWAYS: What You Need to Know
This easy rice pudding recipe uses just a few simple ingredients rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla. You can use leftover cooked rice or start from raw. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made on the stovetop or baked. It’s creamy, cozy, and totally beginner-friendly.
What Is Rice Pudding and Why Everyone Loves It
What is rice pudding?
Rice pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made from simmering rice in milk or cream with sugar and a touch of flavor usually vanilla, cinnamon, or nutmeg. While it’s popular around the world, the rice pudding recipe UK style is best known for its baked top and custard-like texture.
This dish has been around for centuries, often served warm in the colder months or chilled in the summer. You’ll find it in homes across Europe, Asia, and South America each culture adding its own twist. Whether it’s thick and rich like baked rice pudding or soft and spoonable like stovetop versions, it’s a dessert that always brings warmth.
Unlike other desserts, rice pudding doesn’t require expensive ingredients or special tools. It’s humble, hearty, and incredibly satisfying especially when made from scratch.
Who is this easy rice pudding recipe for?
This recipe is for anyone craving something nostalgic and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for:
- Beginner cooks learning their way around the stovetop
- Busy families looking to use up leftover cooked rice
- Home bakers who love old-fashioned, oven-baked desserts
- Sweet tooths who prefer simple, no-fuss flavors
It’s also great for those with dietary needs, since it’s naturally gluten-free, and easy to adjust for dairy-free options.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make rice pudding in the oven or with just a pot and spoon, you’re in the right place.
Ingredients for a Foolproof Rice Pudding
What are the ingredients in rice pudding?
The beauty of a rice pudding recipe easy enough for weeknights lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of pantry staples, and you’re minutes away from one of the coziest desserts you’ll ever make.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- White rice – Long-grain or short-grain works. Arborio rice adds extra creaminess.
- Whole milk – For rich texture, though plant-based options like almond or oat milk also work.
- Sugar – Regular granulated sugar is perfect.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth. (Yes, you can add vanilla to rice pudding and you should.)
- Salt – Just a pinch brings out the flavors.
- Optional: Sweetened condensed milk, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cardamom.
This easy rice pudding recipe doesn’t require eggs or fancy techniques. Just a slow simmer and a little stirring. If you want an even richer result, a few tablespoons of condensed milk add sweetness and creaminess, making it taste like rice pudding with condensed milk from a bakery.
Can you use cooked rice in rice pudding?
Absolutely and it’s one of the best kitchen shortcuts. This rice pudding recipe easy with cooked rice is ideal when you’ve got leftover rice in the fridge. It cuts your cooking time in half and creates a soft, pudding-like texture without overcooking the grains.
To use cooked rice, simply skip the rice boiling step and start with milk, sugar, and the cooked rice. Stir, simmer, and enjoy. It’s especially helpful for busy weeknights or last-minute desserts.
If you’ve ever searched for a rice pudding recipe easy leftover, this variation will become your go-to.
How to Make Rice Pudding (Step-by-Step)
How do you make rice pudding from scratch?
Making this rice pudding recipe easy from scratch is a breeze, whether you’re cooking it on the stovetop or baking it in the oven. It’s all about slow simmering and letting the ingredients come together into a creamy, comforting dessert.
Here’s how to make rice pudding step-by-step on the stovetop:
- Rinse ¾ cup uncooked white rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce to a simmer, and cook until most of the water is absorbed.
- Pour in 4 cups whole milk and ½ cup sugar, stirring occasionally.
- Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (yes you can add vanilla to rice pudding, and it makes a huge difference).
- Optional: Fold in ½ cup sweetened condensed milk for extra creaminess.
This rice pudding recipe easy stovetop method gives you a silky-smooth pudding that’s ready in under an hour. Want to make it even faster? Use leftover rice just skip to step 4 and let it simmer for 20 minutes instead.
How to make rice pudding in the oven
If you prefer a hands-off method, this baked rice pudding approach is just as comforting. It creates a thick, custardy center with a golden top just like the traditional rice pudding recipe UK style.
Here’s how to bake it:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Lightly butter a 9×9 baking dish.
- Combine 2 cups cooked rice, 2 ½ cups milk, ½ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla in the dish.
- Add a pinch of salt and optional raisins or condensed milk.
- Stir gently and bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring once halfway through.
- The pudding should be thick with a lightly browned surface.
If you’re searching for a baked rice pudding recipe easy enough for beginners, this version is foolproof. It’s also the best method if you’re wondering how to make rice pudding in the oven without overthinking it.
Whether stovetop or baked, this rice pudding recipe easy delivers creamy, sweet results every time. And best of all it’s endlessly flexible.
rice pudding recipe easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse ¾ cup uncooked white rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce heat, and simmer until most of the water is absorbed.
- Stir in 4 cups of whole milk and ½ cup of sugar. Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Once thick and creamy, stir in 1 tbsp vanilla extract and optional condensed milk, raisins, or spices.
- Serve warm or chilled with toppings of choice such as cinnamon, jam, or fresh fruit.
Nutrition
Notes
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Can you add vanilla to rice pudding?
Yes and you absolutely should. Vanilla is one of the most essential ingredients in this rice pudding recipe easy because it adds warmth and rounds out the sweetness. Whether you’re using vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, or even a whole split pod, this simple addition transforms the flavor from plain to perfect.
Vanilla isn’t the only way to upgrade your easy rice pudding. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, the flavor options are endless.
Popular variations for this rice pudding recipe easy:
- Rice pudding with condensed milk – Add ½ cup for richer texture and caramel-like sweetness.
- Baked rice pudding with cinnamon and nutmeg – Ideal for holidays or Sunday dinner.
- Rice pudding with raisins or dried cranberries – Stir them in before baking or simmering.
- Dairy-free version – Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a lighter spin.
- Zesty twist – Add a little lemon or orange zest for brightness.
Want something tropical? Try mixing mango into your pudding or top it with fresh slices and toasted coconut. For a truly refreshing summer option, you can pair this rice pudding recipe easy with our Mango Sticky Rice recipe for an irresistible duo.
Feeling festive?
Top your baked rice pudding with crushed candy canes or peppermint bark. It’s a cozy dessert that pairs beautifully with our Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
More ideas to try with your easy rice pudding:
- A spoonful of peanut butter (try it with our Peanut Butter Bars)
- A swirl of berry jam or fruit preserves
- Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder (goes well with Hot Cocoa Cookies)
- Toasted nuts for crunch
This rice pudding recipe easy gives you a blank canvas. Make it your own. Dress it up. Or enjoy it warm and plain just like Grandma did.
Serving & Storing Rice Pudding
How to serve old-fashioned rice pudding
One of the best things about this rice pudding recipe easy enough for any home cook is how versatile it is when serving. Whether you’re enjoying it as a warm dessert on a winter evening or serving it chilled for a summer treat, this dish always hits the spot.
Here are a few favorite ways to serve this easy rice pudding recipe:
- Warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a pat of butter on top
- Chilled with a drizzle of cream or a spoonful of jam
- Topped with toasted nuts, caramel sauce, or dried fruit
- With fresh berries or sliced bananas for a lighter touch
If you’re serving guests, try pairing your baked rice pudding with something slightly tart like a berry compote or even a side of Zucchini Muffins for contrast in flavor and texture. For a festive dessert platter, add slices of Black Forest Cheesecake or Nanaimo Bars both balance beautifully with this cozy pudding.
How to store old-fashioned rice pudding
Made too much? Great news this rice pudding recipe easy stores wonderfully. In fact, it might taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Follow these simple tips:
- Refrigerator: Let your rice pudding cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze portions of this easy rice pudding recipe for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir gently over low heat.
Pro tip: Add a little extra milk if it thickens too much in the fridge. The starch in the rice continues to absorb liquid over time, so giving it a stir with milk will bring it right back to life.
Whether you bake it, simmer it, or make it with leftover rice, this rice pudding recipe easy gives you a satisfying dessert that stores well and serves beautifully anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Pudding
How do you make rice pudding?
To make a rice pudding recipe easy, combine cooked or uncooked white rice with milk, sugar, and vanilla in a pot. Simmer until creamy, about 30–40 minutes. For a baked version, mix the ingredients in a dish and bake at 325°F for 1 hour until thick and golden.
Can you add vanilla to rice pudding?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended. Vanilla adds warmth and richness to this easy rice pudding recipe, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it. Just 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract transforms the dish from basic to unforgettable.
What is rice pudding?
Rice pudding is a creamy, traditional dessert made from rice, milk, and sugar. This rice pudding recipe easy version can be cooked on the stovetop or baked. It’s soft, comforting, and ideal for both kids and adults. Some versions include spices, raisins, or condensed milk.
What are the ingredients in rice pudding?
This easy rice pudding recipe uses simple pantry ingredients: white rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Optional ingredients include cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, or condensed milk for added sweetness and texture.
How to make homemade rice pudding with cooked rice?
For a rice pudding recipe easy with cooked rice, skip the rice boiling step and start by adding cooked rice to warm milk and sugar. Simmer for 20 minutes until thick and creamy, then add vanilla. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice.
How to serve old-fashioned rice pudding?
Serve this easy rice pudding recipe warm with cinnamon, or chilled with cream or jam. Add toppings like raisins, nuts, fruit, or chocolate. It’s a great comfort food and pairs well with Carrot Cake from Scratch or Peanut Butter Bars.
How to store old-fashioned rice pudding?
Cool completely and refrigerate this rice pudding recipe easy in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, store in single portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep it creamy and soft.
Final Thoughts from Lora
This rice pudding recipe easy is more than just dessert it’s tradition, comfort, and joy in every spoonful. Whether you’re making it to use up leftover rice, preparing a cozy family treat, or just trying something new, this recipe delivers every time.
The best part? You can truly make it your own. Stir in condensed milk for richness, try the baked rice pudding version for old-school charm, or fold in spices and toppings that reflect your personal taste. However you serve it, this pudding has a way of making any day feel special.
From my kitchen to yours, I hope this becomes one of your go-to classics the kind of recipe you don’t even need to look up because it lives in your memory (and heart).
Looking for more sweet, comforting ideas?
Try these Cheflora favorites next:
- Cozy up with Hot Cocoa Cookies on chilly nights
- Enjoy a slice of our Black Forest Cheesecake for something rich and decadent
- Or try something light and fruity like Mango Sticky Rice
Thanks for stopping by my kitchen. Let’s keep cooking something wonderful together.
– Lora
Your friendly kitchen companion at Cheflora Recipes
