Vanilla Rice Pudding Recipe
When I think of a truly comforting dessert, homemade Vanilla Rice Pudding often comes to mind (and Swedish Pancakes too!), the kind my mother makes, simmering gently on the stove and filling the whole house with the aroma of vanilla. A classic, an old-fashioned dessert, just like Grandma used to make: simple, hearty, and brimming with nostalgia.
This dessert is a true delight for the taste buds: it combines the sweetness of milk, the smoothness of creamy rice, and that subtle touch of vanilla that instantly transports you to the comforting warmth of home. No need for complicated ingredients or endless steps, and that’s its magic.
What I particularly appreciate about my recipe:
- A very simple recipe, with very few ingredients (good short-grain rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla) – almost nothing for maximum comfort, and above all, you probably already have everything you need at home.
- You can personalize it, for example, by adding a handful of raisins that have been soaked beforehand (in rum or honey) for a fruity and slightly sweet note, or even a few squares of chocolate with nuts to melt during cooking.
- Use a short-grain rice like Carnaroli or Arborio (as for risotto): it absorbs the milk while remaining creamy – ideal for a wonderfully smooth texture.
- And above all: the subtle flavor of vanilla that gives this dessert its unique character.
Classic Vanilla Rice Pudding Recipe
You can serve it in individual ramekins or on a large platter, spooning it in.
To store it, you can leave it at room temperature if you plan to eat it the same day. Otherwise, refrigerate it, covered with plastic wrap, and take it out 15 minutes before serving, as it firms up in the refrigerator.
If you have any left over, you can always turn it into a cake. Bake it for 10 to 15 minutes and serve it with homemade caramel: a real treat!
This traditional and authentic dessert may seem simple, but believe me, it has an intimate, almost nostalgic sweetness that transforms each spoonful into a childhood memory. So, if you love easy, delicious, and fuss-free homemade desserts, you’ve come to the right place. And the best part? It’s also the perfect dessert for those on a budget! 😉
What ingredients do you need to make this rice pudding recipe?
- Round rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli
- Milk of your choice (whole or plant-based)
- A knob of butter (optional)
- Sugar of your choice (white, brown, etc.)
- A vanilla bean or a tablespoon of vanilla sugar
Here are some other traditional dessert recipe ideas that you might like:
Classic Vanilla Rice Pudding
Ingredients
- 120 g short-grain rice (such as Aborio or Carnaroli)
- 1 liter milk (your choice)
- 40-50 g granulated or brown sugar
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1 knob butter (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and vanilla.Heat, stirring constantly.
- After 5 minutes, add the rice and reduce the heat.Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the milk just covers the rice and the mixture is creamy.
- Remove from heat, add the butter (optional), and mix well.
- Divide the rice pudding among individual ramekins and let cool to room temperature for 1 hour.Enjoy the same day or store in the refrigerator.
