Mom’s Classic Old Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe: Comfort in Every Spoonful

Introduction

Nostalgia and Simplicity of Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

There’s something deeply comforting about Mom’s old fashioned rice pudding. Maybe it’s the warm, creamy texture or the delicate aroma of cinnamon that fills the kitchen, but this dessert is a true taste of home. Unlike flashy modern sweets, this humble pudding brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings by the stove. It’s simplicity at its finest—a reminder that sometimes the best desserts don’t need to be complicated.

Contrast with Modern Desserts

In today’s world of intricate desserts with layers of mousse, gel, and fancy garnishes, Mom’s rice pudding feels refreshingly straightforward. It’s an easy rice pudding for beginners that focuses on quality ingredients and slow, loving preparation. No gimmicks, just heart.

Emphasis on Home-Cooked Warmth

This dish is less about impressing guests and more about feeding the soul. When you serve this cinnamon rice pudding, you’re offering a slice of home-cooked warmth, a family recipe for classic desserts that never goes out of style.

The Magic of Simplicity

Basic Ingredients: Rice, Milk, Sugar, Eggs

The magic behind old fashioned rice pudding lies in its basic ingredients: rice, milk, sugar, and eggs. These pantry staples combine to create a luscious custard that’s creamy, comforting, and satisfying.

Easy Preparation

You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this. With straightforward steps like cooking the rice until tender, blending with rich milk and eggs, and gently baking until set, you’ll find it’s a simple, no-fuss dessert anyone can master.

Versatility and Variations

While jasmine rice is my go-to, you can swap it for arborio rice for a creamier texture. Vanilla extract is a classic addition, but feel free to experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even raisins for extra flavor and texture.

Historical Roots and Evolution

Rice Pudding’s History Across Cultures

Rice pudding is one of those timeless desserts with a rich history that spans the globe. From ancient Asia to Europe and beyond, every culture has its own spin on this creamy treat.

Connection to Family Traditions and Heritage

In many families, rice pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. The history of rice pudding is intertwined with stories of heritage, family gatherings, and the simple joys of sharing a meal.

Link to Further Historical Resources

For those interested, there are wonderful resources and food history sites that dive deep into rice pudding’s origins and how it evolved in different cultures. Exploring these can enrich your appreciation for this classic dessert.

Variations Across Cultures

Middle Eastern: Rose Water and Cardamom

In Middle Eastern kitchens, rice pudding often features fragrant rose water and a hint of cardamom, lending a floral and exotic aroma that’s unique and inviting.

Latin American: Coconut Milk and Cinnamon

Latin American versions often use coconut milk and plenty of cinnamon, creating a tropical twist on the classic that’s rich and slightly sweet.

European: Lemon or Orange Zest

European recipes sometimes add lemon or orange zest to brighten the dish, balancing the creaminess with fresh citrus notes.

Modern Dietary Adaptations: Dairy-Free Alternatives

For those avoiding dairy, coconut or almond milk can be excellent substitutes, making this dish accessible without losing its comforting charm.

Classic Recipe

Description of the Dessert’s Custard Topping and Spices

This classic old fashioned rice pudding is distinguished by its rich, creamy custard topping that forms during baking. The custard is created by whisking together eggs, sugar, and milk, which gently set in the oven to create a silky, smooth layer that perfectly complements the tender, slightly chewy rice beneath. This contrast in textures is key to the pudding’s appeal.

The warm spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—are essential to the flavor profile. Ground cinnamon brings a sweet, woody warmth that is both comforting and familiar, while nutmeg adds a subtle, earthy spice with a hint of sweetness and complexity. These spices are balanced carefully so they enhance rather than overpower the delicate milk and vanilla flavors.

Adding raisins is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy bursts of sweetness and a bit of chewiness within the creamy pudding. As the raisins bake, they plump up and infuse the pudding with their natural sugars, creating a pleasant textural contrast that adds depth and variety to each bite.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup jasmine rice — A fragrant long-grain rice that cooks up tender and slightly sticky, perfect for absorbing the creamy custard.
• 4 cups whole milk — Provides richness and creaminess essential for that classic pudding texture.
• 3/4 cup sugar — Sweetens the pudding just right without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• 1/4 tsp salt — Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor depth.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract — Adds a sweet, aromatic warmth that complements the spices and milk.
• 3 large eggs — These bind the pudding and create the luscious custard topping that sets during baking.
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional) — Adds bursts of sweetness and chewy texture, enhancing the overall eating experience.
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon — The key warming spice that defines the classic rice pudding flavor.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg — A subtle spice that adds complexity and a gentle, aromatic finish.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Setting the oven temperature low and slow is key to gently baking the pudding without curdling the custard. This moderate heat allows the eggs to set gradually, creating that smooth, creamy texture without cracking or overcooking.

2. Cook the rice:
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup jasmine rice with 2 cups of whole milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the milk has been absorbed—this usually takes about 20 minutes. This step softens the rice and infuses it with the rich creaminess of the milk, which is essential before baking. Avoid rushing here; undercooked rice can result in a gritty pudding.

3. Prepare the custard mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the remaining 2 cups of whole milk. Whisking thoroughly ensures the sugar dissolves fully and the spices distribute evenly, creating a balanced, flavorful custard that will envelop the rice.

4. Combine and prepare for baking:
Gently fold the cooked rice and 1/2 cup raisins (if using) into the custard mixture, ensuring the rice is well coated. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ease serving. Pour the rice-custard mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

5. Bake and finish:
Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes until the pudding is set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this “jiggle” means the custard is perfectly creamy and not overbaked. If it firms up too much, the texture can become dry. After baking, allow the pudding to cool for at least 20 minutes. Cooling helps it thicken and develop its full flavor. You can serve it warm or chilled, finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dusting of nutmeg, or fresh fruit for extra freshness and visual appeal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore that creamy, luscious texture. Avoid overheating as it can cause the custard to separate or become rubbery.

Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

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• Author: Emilio
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Nostalgic and comforting, Mom’s old fashioned rice pudding is a warm, creamy dessert infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, bringing a taste of home and tradition to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice and 2 cups of whole milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and most milk is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and remaining 2 cups of milk.
4. Gently fold cooked rice and raisins (if using) into the custard mixture.
5. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish and pour in the rice-custard mixture evenly.
6. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Let cool at least 20 minutes before serving. Serve warm or chilled, optionally sprinkled with cinnamon or fresh fruit.

Notes

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent curdling or rubbery texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American Traditional

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: rice pudding, old fashioned, cinnamon, custard, dessert, nostalgic, classic

the benefits of Mom’s Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

FAQ: Old Fashioned Rice Pudding

Q: What makes this rice pudding “old fashioned”?
A: It’s all about simple, wholesome ingredients and traditional baking methods that create a comforting, nostalgic dessert.

Q: Can I use other types of rice?
A: Absolutely! Arborio or jasmine rice works great. Each type offers a slightly different texture.

Q: How do I avoid a grainy texture?
A: Cook the rice gently until tender, and mix well with the custard. Baking slowly helps achieve a smooth finish.

Q: What are good serving suggestions for rice pudding?
A: Serve it warm or chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of honey.

Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: Yes! Use coconut or almond milk to make a delicious dairy-free cinnamon rice pudding.

Conclusion

Mom’s old fashioned rice pudding is more than just a dessert it’s a comforting reminder of home, tradition, and simple, heartfelt cooking. Whether you’re new to making rice pudding or looking to revive a beloved family recipe for classic desserts, this timeless dish delivers warmth and nostalgia in every spoonful. Enhance it with a dusting of cinnamon, a swirl of cream, or a handful of fresh berries for a truly delightful treat that everyone will love.

Feeling inspired? Gather your ingredients, settle into your kitchen, and let this cherished recipe show you why some classics never lose their charm.

And while you’re here, be sure to check out our Pinterest page for stunning carrot cake plating ideas that will elevate your dessert presentations to the next level.