Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins

Discover the creamy comfort of Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins, a sweet, spiced dessert perfect for cozy moments and celebrations. This classic treat blends velvety rice cooked to tender perfection with warm cinnamon spice and bursts of juicy raisins. It’s a nostalgic dish that comforts the soul, making it a favorite for all seasons and occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Time-tested comfort food: This recipe combines familiar flavors that warm you up from the inside out on any chilly evening.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor: With pantry staples like rice, cinnamon, and raisins, the magic comes from how these ingredients harmonize together.
• Versatile dessert option: Enjoy it warm or chilled, perfect for a quick treat or special gatherings.
• Nostalgic and satisfying: It evokes memories of family dinners and festive celebrations with every spoonful.
• Customizable to your taste: Easy to adapt with your favorite spices or toppings for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins lies in the simplicity of its ingredients—all playing a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and spice.

• White rice: Use short-grain or Arborio rice for a creamy texture that holds just right.
• Milk: Whole milk brings richness, but you can use alternatives like almond or oat milk for dietary preferences.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweet warmth, balanced perfectly with the spices.
• Cinnamon powder: Freshly ground cinnamon provides the signature warm, fragrant note.
• Raisins: Adds bursts of natural sweetness and a chewy texture contrast.
• Vanilla extract: A splash enhances all the flavors and rounds out the dish beautifully.
• A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens the flavor complexity.

Variations for Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins

This recipe lends itself wonderfully to customization—feel free to mix it up whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply exploring new flavor profiles. Each variation offers a distinct twist without losing that classic heartwarming feel.

• Use coconut milk: Swap out dairy for a tropical creaminess and subtle coconut flavor.
• Add nutmeg or cardamom: Introduce a warm spice twist that complements cinnamon perfectly.
• Swap raisins for dried cranberries or cherries: Different dried fruits add tartness and color contrast.
• Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk and sweeteners like maple syrup instead of sugar.
• Top with toasted nuts: Crunchy almonds or pistachios elevate the texture beautifully.

How to Make Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Rice

Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then soak it in water for about 30 minutes to help it cook evenly and soften.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Drain the soaked rice and combine it with milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until the rice becomes tender and the mixture thickens.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Spices

Once the rice reaches a creamy consistency, stir in sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This is where the warming spice infuses the pudding’s base.

Step 4: Incorporate Raisins and Vanilla

Add the raisins and vanilla extract, stirring to distribute evenly. Allow the raisins to plump up and absorb some of the fragrant milk mixture.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Lower the heat and simmer gently until the pudding thickens further to your desired consistency, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins

• Use a heavy-bottomed pot: Prevents scorching and ensures even heat distribution while cooking.
• Stir frequently: Helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture and prevents sticking to the bottom.
• Add raisins late: So they stay plump without overcooking or drying out.
• Adjust milk amount: Add a splash more if the pudding thickens too quickly before the rice is fully tender.
• Let it rest: Pudding thickens as it cools, so don’t be alarmed if it looks thinner while hot.

How to Serve Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins

Garnishes

Top with a light dusting of cinnamon, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to add a decorative touch and extra flavor layers.

Side Dishes

Pair with fresh fruit slices like apple or pear, or even a warm spiced tea for a complete cozy dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in small mason jars for a portable snack or layer with fruit compote in glass cups for an elegant dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover rice pudding to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and creamy.

Freezing

This pudding freezes well—portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months, making it convenient for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess as needed.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook and the pudding will have a nuttier flavor and firmer texture.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Not as written, but you can easily use plant-based milks like almond or coconut milk to make it dairy-free.

Can I bake this pudding instead of stovetop cooking?

Absolutely, rice pudding can be baked in the oven for a different texture, but the stovetop method tends to be creamier and faster.

How sweet should rice pudding be?

Sweetness is flexible; start with less sugar and adjust to taste as the pudding cooks to avoid overpowering the spices.

Why does my rice pudding sometimes become too thick?

Overcooking or too little liquid can cause thickening; simply add a bit more milk while reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t experienced the joy of warm, comforting Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. This sweet, creamy dessert is easy to make and endlessly satisfying—whether you’re seeking a nostalgic treat or a new favorite to share. Treat yourself and those you love with a bowlful of this timeless delight.

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