Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding

Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding is a timeless dessert that brings together tender rice, sweet raisins, and warm cinnamon in a luxuriously creamy base. Baked gently in the oven and finished with a splash of cream, this comforting dish is perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or a cozy treat anytime. Serve it warm on its own or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rice pudding is everything a comforting dessert should be—soft, creamy, mildly spiced, and not overly sweet. The baking process allows the rice to slowly absorb the milk and cinnamon, resulting in a thick, velvety texture. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and requires minimal hands-on time. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated later, it delivers pure comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing
4 cups milk (full-fat or reduced-fat)
1/3 cup white sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup medium grain white rice, uncooked
1/2 cup sultanas or raisins
3/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup thickened or heavy cream

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Grease a 10-cup (or larger) baking or casserole dish with the butter.

3. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat until the surface is foamy, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Do not boil.

4. In the greased baking dish, add the uncooked rice, raisins, and cinnamon. Pour the warmed milk mixture over the top and give it a gentle stir to combine.

5. Cover the dish with a lid or foil.

6. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes to prevent the rice from sticking and to distribute ingredients evenly.

7. Remove from the oven and stir in the cream. The pudding may look slightly thin at first but will thicken as it rests.

8. Serve warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 171 kcal per serving

Variations

• No Raisins: Simply omit the raisins or replace with chopped dried apricots or dates.

• Coconut Twist: Use half coconut milk and half regular milk for a tropical variation.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick during baking for deeper spice notes.

• Rice Options: Use arborio rice for a creamier texture or long grain if you prefer a looser pudding.

• Sugar-Free: Substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener suitable for baking.

• Fruit Topping: Serve with stewed apples or fresh berries for added flavor and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pudding will continue to thicken as it chills. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until creamy and heated through. Avoid boiling to preserve the smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, rice pudding can be made in advance and reheated before serving. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Medium grain rice is best for its tender, slightly sticky texture. Arborio or short-grain rice also works well.

Is it necessary to stir during baking?

Yes, stirring every 20 minutes prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom and ensures even cooking.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used. Creaminess may vary depending on the type.

How do I know when it’s done?

The pudding should be thickened and the rice fully tender after an hour. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I leave out the cream?

Yes, but the cream adds richness. You can use an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of milk as a substitute.

What can I use instead of sugar?

Try honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute that’s suitable for baking. Adjust to taste.

Will the pudding thicken as it cools?

Yes, it will firm up considerably as it sits. Stir in a bit of warm milk if needed before serving.

Is this dish served hot or cold?

It’s traditionally served warm but is also delicious chilled straight from the fridge.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Increase bake time slightly and stir regularly.

Conclusion

Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. With its warm spices, soft texture, and rich creaminess, it’s the perfect dish to end a meal or enjoy as a midday treat. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this classic comfort dessert is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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