Creamy, comforting, and deliciously nostalgic, Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding is a dessert that wraps you in warmth from the first spoonful. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with your favorite spices and toppings, this classic treat is quick to prepare and delights with its ultra-smooth texture, gentle sweetness, and notes of cinnamon and vanilla. It’s the ideal way to transform leftover rice into a soul-soothing dessert, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding, you only need a handful of pantry staples, but each one plays an important role. These simple ingredients work together to create the wonderfully creamy texture, gentle sweetness, and subtle spice that make this pudding so hard to resist.
- Cooked white rice: This is the perfect opportunity to use up leftover rice; it’s the tender, starchy foundation that gives the pudding body.
- Whole milk: Gives the pudding its luscious creaminess and classic richness; you can swap in some half-and-half or evaporated milk for an even silkier result.
- Granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness without overpowering the gentle flavors of the rice and milk.
- Egg, lightly beaten: Helps thicken the pudding and enhances its custard-like texture.
- Vanilla extract: Brings that warm, fragrant touch, making each spoonful feel extra special.
- Ground cinnamon: Offers subtle spice and a hint of color; feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for more complexity.
- Salt: Just a touch helps balance sweetness and deepens every flavor in the bowl.
- Raisins (optional): These add pops of sweetness and chewy texture; you can skip or replace them depending on your preference.
- Butter or cream for serving (optional): A finishing flourish to add richness—perfect if you want to make your rice pudding extra decadent.
How to Make Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding
Step 1: Combine Rice, Milk, Sugar, and Salt
Grab a medium saucepan and add your cooked white rice, milk, granulated sugar, and that pinch of salt. This is the stage where humble leftovers start turning into something magical. The milk rehydrates the rice, while the sugar and salt begin to dissolve, creating a custardy base that’s ready to soak up all the comforting flavors. Set your burner to medium heat and get ready to stir.
Step 2: Simmer and Stir
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often to keep it from sticking. You’ll see the grains swell a bit and the pudding become more unified and creamy. This is when the kitchen starts to smell absolutely heavenly—sweet, milky, and inviting. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently and keeping a close eye on the pot. Once the mixture thickens to your liking (think: soupier for chilled pudding, thicker for a warm treat), you’re ready for the next step.
Step 3: Add the Beaten Egg
Now comes the magic moment for that luxurious texture. Slowly stream the lightly beaten egg into your simmering pot while stirring constantly. The egg cooks in just a few minutes, gently thickening the pudding even more and giving it the silkiest, spoon-coating consistency. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes, making sure everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 4: Stir in Vanilla, Cinnamon, and Raisins
Take the pot off the heat, then add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and raisins if you’re using them. The warmth from the pudding will coax all those incredible aromas out of the vanilla and spice, making each bite cozy and fragrant. Let the pudding rest for a few minutes – it’ll thicken a tad more as it cools.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Spoon your Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding into bowls, enjoying it warm and creamy, or chill it if you prefer a cool, dense treat. Add a splash of cream or a pat of butter if you like, then get ready to dig in. Every bite is pure comfort and so, so simple to make.
How to Serve Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding
Garnishes
Transform your bowl with easy garnishes: a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, a drizzle of honey, or a handful of toasted chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch. For a truly decadent touch, finish with a pat of butter melting into the warm pudding, or swirl in a little heavy cream to make it extra luscious.
Side Dishes
If you’re dishing up Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding at a get-together, serve it alongside fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, poached pears, or juicy mandarins. A few crisp butter cookies or a cup of espresso can also keep things simple and elegant. The pudding’s mild flavors pair effortlessly with a range of light, bright treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Set up a rice pudding bar with bowls of toppings: dried fruits, toasted coconut, chopped dark chocolate, or fruity jams for swirling. For a bit of flair, spoon the pudding into elegant glasses, top with whipped cream and a cherry, or serve layered as a parfait with granola and fresh fruit. The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for breakfast treats or midnight snacks.
Freezing
Rice pudding actually freezes better than you might think! Place cooled pudding in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Reheat Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of milk to loosen it up if it’s become too thick. Warm it slowly and keep stirring for the creamiest possible texture. A quick stir before serving brings it right back to its original glory.
FAQs
Can I use any type Dessert
Absolutely! While white rice gives the creamiest result, you can swap in brown or jasmine rice for a slightly different flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s cooked in advance, and note that different rice types may make the pudding a bit chewier or nuttier.
What if I want my Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding extra-rich?
Try swapping part of the milk for half-and-half or evaporated milk—it’ll give your pudding a richer, more decadent texture. A splash of cream at the end or even a little melted butter will also do the trick.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Of course! Substitute your favorite non-dairy milk, such as almond, coconut, or oat. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still end up with a deliciously comforting bowl.
Is it possible to leave out the egg?
If you prefer egg-free pudding, simply leave it out. Your pudding will be a bit less rich and thick, but still wonderfully creamy especially if you use a little extra milk and simmer until thickened.
How do I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pan?
Stir frequently and use a heavy-bottomed saucepan if you have one. Keeping the heat at medium or slightly below will prevent scorching and ensure your pudding comes out perfectly smooth every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding is such a beloved comfort food—each spoonful is like a cozy memory brought to life. If you haven’t yet tried making it at home, trust me: with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a bowlful of warmth and happiness. Go ahead and treat yourself to this easy classic; you deserve it!
Print
Easy Stovetop Rice Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this easy stovetop rice pudding that is simple to make and delightful to savor. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 2 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Optional Additions:
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- Butter or cream for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir frequently and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the Mixture: Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until creamy. Slowly stir in the beaten egg and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Final Touches: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and raisins if using. Let sit to cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, topped with cream or butter if desired.
Notes
- This recipe is great for using up leftover rice.
- For added richness, substitute part of the milk with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of honey.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
