Okay, real talk—there’s just something about creamy rice pudding that hits different. It’s the kind of dessert your grandma might’ve made on a rainy Sunday, but also the one you secretly crave when Netflix is asking if you’re still watching. It’s silky, sweet, and has that cozy cinnamon smell that basically feels like a warm blanket for your senses.
The best part? You can make it with just a handful of pantry staples. And yeah, it’s one of those recipes that works just as well warm (hello, comfort food!) as it does chilled straight from the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)
| Ingredient | Why It’s Here |
|---|---|
| 1 cinnamon stick | Gives that subtle, warm spice that screams “home.” |
| 4 cups whole milk | Makes the pudding rich, creamy, and irresistible. |
| 2 cups water | Helps soften the rice before we go all-in with the milk. |
| 1 cup white rice | Our star player—just avoid the instant kind. |
| 1 can sweetened condensed milk | Adds sweetness and a dreamy smooth texture. |
| 1 pinch salt | Balances the sweetness so it’s not over the top. |
| Large strip of lemon peel | Brightens everything up with a little citrus twist. |
| Ground cinnamon | For that final dusting of flavor and Insta-worthy vibes. |
Step-by-Step (No Fancy Skills Needed)
Step 1: Soften the Rice
Grab a medium pot and toss in your rice and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then drop it down low. Cover it up and let it do its thing for about 15 minutes, stirring here and there, until most of the water’s gone and the rice is soft.
Step 2: Bring on the Flavor
Pour in the milk, add your cinnamon stick and that lemon peel. Keep it on medium-low heat and stir now and then so it doesn’t stick to the bottom (nobody wants burnt pudding). Let it thicken a little while those flavors get cozy together.
Step 3: Sweet Finish
Fish out the cinnamon stick and lemon peel—thank them for their service. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and that tiny pinch of salt. Keep cooking on low, stirring often, until it’s as thick as you like (usually 10–15 minutes).
Step 4: Chill or Serve Warm
You can serve it right away for that steamy, comforting dessert vibe, or pop it in the fridge for at least an hour if you want it cold and extra creamy.
Step 5: Make It Pretty
Sprinkle with ground cinnamon right before serving. Or, go wild—add berries, whipped cream, or even a little extra lemon zest.
Tips from My Kitchen
- Sweet tooth warning: If you like it less sweet, cut back on the condensed milk and add a splash of regular milk instead.
- Texture matters: Want it thicker? Let it simmer a bit longer. Creamier? Add a touch more milk near the end.
- Raisin lovers unite: Stir in raisins during the last 5 minutes for a nostalgic twist.
Honestly, this creamy rice pudding is comfort in a bowl—simple, sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner, a weekend treat, or just because the weather’s giving “sweater season,” it’s one of those recipes that’ll stick around in your kitchen for years.
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