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There is something irresistibly comforting about a warm, velvety dessert that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and quiet evenings. The Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—it combines soft, tender rice with the gentle sweetness of milk and sugar, all infused with a fragrant hint of cinnamon and the chewy burst of raisins. It’s a classic recipe that delivers rich texture and heartwarming flavor in every spoonful, perfect for both an everyday treat and a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in creating the luscious texture and comforting flavors that define this pudding. From creamy milk to the sweet punch of raisins, the components blend harmoniously to make this classic dessert shine.
- 1 cup white rice (short-grain or medium-grain): Short-grain rice is best for its starchiness, which makes the pudding beautifully creamy.
- 4 cups whole milk (or a mix with heavy cream): Whole milk adds richness, while heavy cream takes the pudding to an indulgent level.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Perfect to balance the mild creaminess with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice and depth that makes every bite comforting and aromatic.
- 1/4 tsp salt: A pinch to enhance all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and cinnamon.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a smooth, sweet fragrance that beautifully complements the cinnamon.
- 2 large eggs (optional): For those who want a richer, custard-like pudding with extra creaminess.
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional): These little bursts of natural sweetness provide delightful texture and contrast.
How to Make Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch and prevents your pudding from becoming gluey, helping to achieve that perfect smooth texture you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan
Place the rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt into a large saucepan. Give everything a good stir to distribute the cinnamon and sugar evenly. This mixture is the foundation of your pudding’s rich, creamy flavor.
Step 3: Simmer and Stir
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Then turn the heat down to low and let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally. This allows the rice to soften and slowly absorb the sweet, spiced milk—usually about 20 to 25 minutes—until the pudding thickens beautifully.
Step 4: Temper and Add Eggs
If you want an extra creamy, indulgent texture, beat your eggs separately. Slowly add some of the warm milk mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly; this tempers them so they won’t scramble. Then pour the egg mixture back into the pan and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until you see the pudding thicken further into that luscious custard you know and love.
Step 5: Stir in Vanilla and Raisins
Next, fold in the vanilla extract and raisins. The vanilla boosts the warmth of the cinnamon, and the raisins add delightful little pops of sweetness to every spoonful.
Step 6: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Remove from heat and allow your pudding to cool a bit. This dessert is wonderful served warm, but feel free to chill it in the fridge if you’re craving a cool, refreshing twist.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Cinnamon and Enjoy!
Before serving, sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top to make it extra inviting. Then dive into the cozy comfort of your homemade Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe—a dish that feels like a big, warm hug in every bite.
How to Serve Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your pudding’s presentation, consider garnishing with a few fresh plump raisins or a light dusting of extra cinnamon. For a touch of luxury, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can add a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress anyone you share it with.
Side Dishes
This pudding works wonderfully as a stand-alone dessert, but if you want to make it part of a larger meal, pairing it with something fresh and tangy like a mixed berry salad or a side of crisp apple slices creates a lovely balance of flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe in individual glass jars or ramekins topped with toasted nuts or coconut flakes. Another fun idea is layering it with fruit compote for pretty, parfait-style servings that will wow guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which can be rare with this rich pudding!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making it a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
While this pudding can be frozen, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers and consume within a month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pudding slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up if it has thickened too much. Stir well to restore its creamy consistency and enjoy it just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Short-grain or medium-grain rice is ideal because it has the right starch content to make the pudding creamy. Long-grain rice won’t get as soft or creamy, so it’s best to stick with the recommended types.
Is it necessary to use eggs in the Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe?
Eggs are optional and add richness and a custard-like texture. If you prefer a simpler or lighter version, you can skip the eggs entirely and still end up with a deliciously creamy pudding.
Can I make this pudding dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still comforting and tasty.
How long should I cook the rice pudding?
Simmering the rice pudding for 20 to 25 minutes ensures the rice becomes tender and the mixture thickens nicely. If you add eggs, cook a bit longer as directed to thicken the pudding further.
Can I add other dried fruits or nuts?
Yes! While raisins are traditional, feel free to experiment by adding chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of joy in making and sharing the Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sweet ending to a family dinner or a cozy personal treat, this pudding delivers warmth, comfort, and nostalgic flavor in every spoonful. I hope you give it a try and discover just how magical a simple rice pudding can be!
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Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and comforting rice pudding recipe features tender short-grain rice simmered gently in milk and sweetened with sugar and cinnamon. Optional eggs add richness, while raisins bring a delightful texture and sweetness. Served warm or chilled, this classic dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice (short-grain or medium-grain works best)
- 4 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients
- 2 large eggs (optional, for a richer pudding)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional, for added texture and sweetness)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt, stirring to mix well.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the pan to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 20-25 minutes until rice is soft and the pudding thickens.
- Temper and add eggs (optional): If using eggs, beat them in a small bowl. Gradually add hot milk mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly to temper, then slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Stir continuously and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens further.
- Add final flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and raisins if using, blending evenly throughout the pudding.
- Cool the pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the pudding to cool slightly. Serve warm or refrigerate for a few hours to enjoy chilled.
- Serve: Spoon the pudding into bowls, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon on top, and enjoy your creamy rice pudding dessert.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute some whole milk with heavy cream.
- The optional eggs add creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter pudding.
- Short-grain or medium-grain rice works best to achieve a creamy texture.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the rice from sticking or burning.
- Rice pudding can be served warm or chilled according to preference.
- Adding raisins is optional but adds a nice texture contrast and sweetness.
