Cherished Southern Rice Pudding

Name: Cherished Southern Rice Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup of white rice; 4 cups of whole milk; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 cup of sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon of salt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

I have always cherished the memories of my grandmother making her famous rice pudding on Sunday afternoons. The aroma of warm vanilla and cinnamon wafting through the house was simply irresistible. Every bite of this creamy dessert takes me back to those loving moments spent around the dining table, sharing stories and laughter. This recipe is a tribute to my roots, a blend of simple ingredients that together create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll fall in love just like I did.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-30T18:54:27.830Z

As I started perfecting my grandmother's rice pudding recipe, I realized the secret lies in the cooking method. Instead of boiling the rice straight in the milk, I soak it overnight, allowing it to absorb flavor and become luxuriously creamy. This technique not only enhances the texture but ensures every spoonful is rich and comforting.

Another tip I've learned along the way is to use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream. While you can use just milk, the cream adds a velvety richness, making each bite feel like a warm hug. Trust me, it's worth the extra indulgence!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that warms your soul
Delightful aroma of vanilla and cinnamon that fills your kitchen
An heirloom recipe that brings back sweet memories

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this cherished rice pudding plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream creates a luxurious base, with the cream contributing to the pudding's smoothness. If you're looking to lighten it up, you can replace half of the heavy cream with additional milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, but be prepared for a slightly less rich flavor.

Sugar enhances the sweetness and balances the spices, while ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. For a fruity touch, raisins are a classic addition—just remember to soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes before adding to the pudding to ensure they plump up beautifully.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Cooking the rice in the milk mixture is the heart of this recipe. It's essential to keep the heat at medium when combining the ingredients, stirring frequently, and monitoring for any signs of boiling. If your mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat immediately to prevent the milk from scorching and develop a subtle caramel flavor. You're looking for a perfect balance where the rice absorbs the milk and thickens without losing its tender bite.

When it comes to adding the eggs, it's crucial to temper them properly. This means gradually mixing in hot pudding into the egg mixture to raise its temperature slowly. This prevents the eggs from curdling—resulting in a smooth texture. Once incorporated back into the pot, cook on low for a final five minutes to allow everything to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make this delicious rice pudding:

Ingredients

1 cup of white rice
4 cups of whole milk
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup of raisins (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cherished rice pudding:

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes, then drain.

Cook the Milk Mixture

In a large saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts steaming, but do not let it boil.

Combine and Thicken

Add the soaked rice to the warm milk mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the mixture is thickened, about 30 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavoring

In a small bowl, beat the eggs. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot rice mixture into the eggs to temper them. Then, stir the egg mix back into the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, adding vanilla extract and raisins if using.

Chill and Serve

Remove from heat and let the pudding cool slightly. Transfer to serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon before enjoying!

Enjoy your cherished Southern rice pudding!

Pro Tips

For a delightful twist, try adding a dash of nutmeg or some fresh lemon zest to brighten the flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This rice pudding can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great option for gatherings. After cooking, allow it to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Give it a gentle stir and add a splash of milk upon reheating to restore its creamy consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge.

If you're planning a big event or family gathering, this recipe can be doubled or tripled. Just ensure that you have a large enough pot to cook the larger volume without overcrowding. The cooking time will remain approximately the same, but keep an eye on the consistency—it may thicken a little faster as the volume increases.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve your cherished rice pudding in individual cups for a delightful presentation. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, or try toasted coconut flakes for an additional textural contrast. For a festive twist, garnish with fresh fruit like berries or poached pears for brighter flavors and added color.

Feeling adventurous? Try infusing your pudding with different flavors, such as adding a splash of almond extract or steeping some citrus zest in the milk. You can also experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or figs in place of raisins for a unique taste. Each variation brings new layers of flavor to this timeless dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and may change the final texture of the pudding.

→ How can I make the pudding dairy-free?

You can substitute cow's milk with almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ Is it possible to make this pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! This rice pudding can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ Can I add fruits to the pudding?

Yes! Fresh berries or diced fruits can be added for an extra sweetness and a pop of color.