If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then the Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe is your newest best friend. This classic dessert combines tender, luscious rice cooked gently in creamy milk, infused with delicate cinnamon spice, and dotted with sweet, chewy raisins. It’s simple yet soul-satisfying, perfect for any occasion when you want something both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a staple in your kitchen for quick sweet cravings or special family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each item plays a special role—from the creamy richness of whole milk to the warm, aromatic cinnamon that gives the pudding its signature flavor. Whether it’s the sugar balancing sweetness or raisins adding bursts of fruity texture, every ingredient is essential to create that perfect final dish.
- 1 cup white rice (short-grain or medium-grain works best): These types absorb liquid well and create the creamy texture distinctive to pudding.
- 4 cups whole milk: The base that makes this pudding creamy, with richness that feels indulgent but comforting.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding just right without overpowering the cinnamon.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice notes, giving the pudding its cozy character.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a sweet, fragrant aroma that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 large eggs (optional): When added, they enrich the pudding and make it extra smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional): Provides natural sweetness and a delightful chewy contrast to the creamy pudding.
How to Make Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch, preventing the pudding from becoming gummy, and helps achieve that creamy, yet perfectly textured consistency.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Saucepan
In a large saucepan, stir together the rinsed rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This mix of creamy and sweet ingredients sets the foundation for the luscious rice pudding we’re building towards.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then turn the heat down to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally for 20 to 25 minutes. This slow cooking softens the rice and allows the liquid to thicken naturally, resulting in that dreamy pudding texture you crave.
Step 4: Add Eggs for Extra Richness (Optional)
If you’re opting to use eggs, beat them in a small bowl. Temper them by whisking in a bit of the hot milk mixture slowly, then stir this warmed egg mixture back into the pot. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the pudding thickens further—this turns your pudding wonderfully silky and rich.
Step 5: Stir in Vanilla and Raisins
Once thickened, take the pudding off the heat and gently mix in the vanilla extract and raisins. This final flavor boost adds aromatic warmth and delightful bursts of sweetness, making every bite feel extra special.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm for pure comfort or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing treat. Either way, it’s a delicious finale to any meal.
How to Serve Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dusting of nutmeg on top adds visual appeal and intensifies the cinnamon flavor. For extra indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey beautifully complements the pudding’s creamy sweetness.
Side Dishes
This rice pudding pairs wonderfully with light fruit salads or crisp baked apples, offering a refreshing counterbalance to its rich creaminess. A cup of spiced chai or black coffee alongside can also elevate your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Layer it with a spoonful of fresh berries or a crumble of toasted nuts for texture and color. For a festive vibe, drizzle caramel sauce on top or fold in chopped dried apricots for a twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a ready-to-eat dessert whenever a craving strikes.
Freezing
While rice pudding freezes well, the texture might change slightly. If you want to freeze it, portion the pudding into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep for up to 2 months, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed pudding gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to restore creaminess. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to warm it evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice has a nuttier flavor and firmer texture, so it’s not ideal for this recipe. The Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe relies on soft, sticky rice to achieve that signature creaminess, which white short- or medium-grain rice provides best.
Is it necessary to use eggs in this recipe?
Eggs are optional but recommended if you want a richer and silkier pudding. If you prefer a lighter texture or are avoiding eggs, simply omit them and the pudding will still be creamy and delicious.
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or currants all work beautifully. Just choose your favorite dried fruit to add natural sweetness and texture to the pudding.
What can I serve this pudding with for a party?
For a party setting, serve individual portions in pretty glasses or ramekins with garnishes like toasted nuts, cinnamon sticks, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It makes a delightful and elegant dessert option that guests will love.
Is this recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals?
Since the pudding uses whole milk and possibly cream, it’s not dairy-free as written. However, you can try substituting with lactose-free milk or creamy plant-based milks like coconut or almond, though the texture and flavor will vary from the traditional version.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm, nostalgic treat that brings comfort and joy with every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a casual weeknight treat, or a festive celebration, it never fails to satisfy those sweet cravings while feeling homemade and heartfelt. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up this timeless classic—you deserve a little sweetness in your day.
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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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and comforting Rice Pudding recipe is made with tender cooked rice simmered in milk, sugar, and cinnamon for a warm, sweet treat. Enhanced with vanilla and optional eggs for richness and raisins for added texture, it’s perfect served warm or chilled.
Ingredients
Main 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 Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Simmer Rice: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Temper and Add Eggs (if using): Beat the eggs in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the eggs to temper them and prevent curdling. Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens further.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and raisins if using. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pudding from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm, or refrigerate for a few hours if you prefer a chilled pudding.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top before serving for an additional touch of flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use short-grain or medium-grain rice for the best creamy texture.
- Tempering the eggs is essential to avoid scrambling them in the hot milk.
- Adjust sugar to taste, especially if adding sweet raisins.
- The pudding thickens more as it cools, so slightly undercook if you prefer a looser consistency.
- Can be served warm or chilled according to preference.
