Creamy Arborio Rice Pudding Recipe: Easiest Dessert to Make
Looking for a simple, creamy dessert? This easy Arborio rice pudding recipe is a must-try. Arborio rice, known for its high starch content, creates a lusciously creamy texture when simmered gently in milk.
It’s a foolproof dessert that will have your family coming back for more. Ready in just over an hour, this pudding is perfect for anyone craving a sweet yet not overly heavy treat.
Ingredients You Need for Creamy Arborio Rice Pudding
To make this rich and smooth rice pudding, you’ll need only a few ingredients:
- Arborio rice (1 cup) – a short-grain rice that’s perfect for pudding.
- Sugar (½ cup) – just enough to sweeten the dessert without overwhelming it.
- Coarse salt (¼ teaspoon) – to balance the sweetness.
- Whole milk (4 ¾ cups, divided) – gives the pudding its creamy consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1 ½ teaspoons) – adds a delicate flavor.
- Heavy cream (¼ cup) – for an extra touch of richness before serving.
- Ground cinnamon – a final sprinkle to top off this comforting dessert.
Directions: How to Make the Easiest Arborio Rice Pudding
- Simmer the Rice: In a large saucepan, bring Arborio rice, sugar, salt, and 4 ½ cups of milk to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 25 minutes.
- Add Remaining Milk and Vanilla: Uncover and stir in the remaining ¼ cup of milk. Cook while stirring continuously until the rice is tender, about 5 minutes. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Chill and Firm Up: Transfer the pudding to a dish, cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the pudding to set.
- Finish with Cream and Cinnamon: Before serving, stir in the heavy cream to loosen the texture and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Pro Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding
- Make it Ahead: Prepare your pudding up to three days in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and add the heavy cream and cinnamon just before serving.
- Serve Warm or Cold: While this recipe suggests chilling, you can serve it warm. Let it cool for 15 minutes, then stir in the cream until you get the desired consistency.
Variations to Customize Your Rice Pudding
- Raisin Lover? Stir in some raisins while the pudding is still warm to soften them slightly.
- Spice it Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. For an extra twist, toss in a few cardamom pods while the rice cooks—just remember to remove them before chilling.
- Citrus Twist: Stir in freshly grated orange zest when adding the cream for a refreshing flavor boost.
How to Store Leftover Rice Pudding
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Stir in a bit of milk or cream to loosen the pudding before serving.
By following this recipe, you’ll have a delicious rice pudding that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Other Pudding Recipes to Try:
- Rice Pudding
- Rice Pudding With Sea-Salt Caramel Sauce
- Classic Vanilla Pudding
- Sticky Toffee Pudding With Toffee Sauce
- Lighter Chocolate Cinnamon Pudding
- Coconut-Raspberry Breakfast Pudding
- Vegan Chocolate Pudding