If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you in a hug with every spoonful, Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is the answer. This timeless treat brings together tender rice, silky dairy, and a generous kiss of cinnamon in a way that feels both nostalgic and completely irresistible. Whether you serve it warm on a chilly day or chilled under a spritz of cinnamon, every bite is pure comfort that’s both simple and elegant. Let’s dive into the secrets behind this ever-popular, soul-soothing classic and make it part of your must-have dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its beautifully uncomplicated ingredients. Each chosen element brings its own texture, flavor, or aroma, making Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon more than the sum of its parts.
- Medium-grain white rice: The ideal texture comes from this rice, which turns tender yet remains plump as it absorbs all the creamy goodness.
- Water: Gives the rice a gentle head start before the dairy takes over for creaminess.
- Whole milk: Brings richness and a classic creamy base, balancing flavor and texture.
- Heavy cream: This is where the luscious, silky texture truly begins, elevating the pudding beyond everyday dessert.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding to perfection without overpowering those warm spice notes.
- Salt: Just a pinch sharpens every flavor and deepens the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds an inviting aromatic warmth, rounding out the dessert.
- Ground cinnamon: The very soul of this pudding, lending a cozy, homey spice that defines this recipe’s character.
- Ground nutmeg (optional): If you love a bit of extra warmth, this optional touch goes a long way.
- Unsalted butter: Swirled in at the end for an indulgent, glossy finish and richer flavor.
- Raisins or chopped dried fruit (optional): Stirred in for lovely pops of chew and sweet-tart complexity.
How to Make Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked medium-grain white rice and water. Set the pan over medium-high heat and bring everything to a lively boil. Once boiling, dial the heat down to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer gently for about 15 minutes. You’re aiming for tender grains with most of the water absorbed—no crunch here, just fluffiness.
Step 2: Add Dairy, Sugar, and Salt
Now, stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt. Turn the heat up to medium and let the magic begin! Keep the saucepan uncovered and stir every couple of minutes. Over 20 to 25 minutes, this mixture will gently thicken and transform into the signature creamy base of Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon. Be patient—this is when the pudding gets its ultra-luxurious texture.
Step 3: Flavor with Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Vanilla
Once the pudding is thickened to your liking, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg if you’re using it, and the splash of vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly to ensure every bite is infused with those comforting spices and aromatic flavors that make this pudding unforgettable.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Optional Add-ins
Add the unsalted butter and stir until it melts seamlessly into the pudding, making everything even silkier. If you love bursts of fruitiness, stir in raisins or chopped dried fruit during the last few minutes of cooking—these gems become perfectly plump and sweet.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let your Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon sit for a few minutes. It’ll thicken just a touch more as it cools. Serve warm for maximum coziness or chilled for a refreshing finish—just don’t forget that extra pinch of cinnamon dusted on top!
How to Serve Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Garnishes
Take this creamy classic from homey to irresistible with your choice of garnishes. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top is the must-have flourish, but dollops of whipped cream, a handful of toasted nuts, or a scattering of extra dried fruit all turn Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon into a showstopper every single time.
Side Dishes
Since this pudding is rich and satisfying on its own, lighter sides like fresh berries or a tangy citrus salad are perfect. Served with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea, the mellow sweetness of the rice pudding is beautifully balanced by something with a touch of acidity or brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon into a stunning dessert by layering it in parfait glasses with fruit compote or crunchy granola between the creamy layers. For a rustic twist, serve it in mason jars or small clay pots—top with a cinnamon stick for a cozy, elegant touch everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover pudding into an airtight container and cool it completely before refrigerating. Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon keeps well for up to 4 days, thickening a bit as it sits. If you find it gets too firm, just stir in a splash of milk before serving.
Freezing
While this pudding freezes fairly well, it can change in texture after thawing. If you do decide to freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of room for expansion. It’ll keep for about 2 months—just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir to bring back as much creaminess as possible.
Reheating
To warm up refrigerated or thawed pudding, gently heat it on the stovetop over low, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen up the consistency. Stir occasionally until just heated through—avoid boiling to maintain that luxuriously creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute coconut milk and almond milk for the heavy cream and whole milk—the result is slightly lighter but still satisfyingly creamy with a gentle whisper of coconut that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
Is it better to serve rice pudding warm or chilled?
This truly comes down to preference. Warm pudding is cozy and soothing, perfect for cold days, while chilled pudding is ultra-refreshing. Try both ways; Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon adapts beautifully!
Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, while medium-grain rice offers a nice creamy consistency, short-grain rice will make the pudding even creamier. Long-grain rice is less ideal as it doesn’t become as soft or starchy.
How can I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pan?
Stirring frequently, especially as the pudding thickens, and cooking over moderate heat will prevent sticking or scorching. Using a heavy-bottomed pan can also help distribute heat evenly.
What other flavors can I add besides cinnamon?
Experiment with cardamom, lemon or orange zest, or a splash of almond extract for a new twist. But for that classic comfort factor, it’s truly hard to beat the winning trio of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon that brings both nostalgia and pure joy in every spoonful. Whether you’re new to homemade rice pudding or it’s already an old favorite, don’t hesitate to try this recipe soon—it just might become your go-to treat for every cozy craving!
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Comforting Creamy Rice Pudding with Cinnamon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy rice pudding infused with warm cinnamon flavors. A delightful dessert that is perfect served warm or chilled.
Ingredients
Rice Pudding:
- ¾ cup uncooked medium-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- raisins or chopped dried fruit (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the rice and water to a boil, then simmer until tender.
- Cook Pudding: Add milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Cook until thick, then stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and butter.
- Finish: Stir in raisins or dried fruit if desired. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk and almond milk for the cream and whole milk.
- Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Short-grain rice can be used for an even creamier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
