rice pudding
Rice pudding, simple and creamy, perfect for those who want a quick, guilt-free and comforting dessert. Try it now!
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, milk, sweetener, vanilla bean or extract, cinnamon stick, and salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy, about 35 minutes.
- Once thick and creamy, remove from heat and take out the cinnamon stick (and vanilla pod if used).
- Stir in the Greek yogurt while the rice pudding is still warm for extra creaminess.
- Transfer to bowls, let cool slightly, and serve warm or chilled. Optional: Garnish with ground cinnamon before serving.
Notes
Rice pudding is one of those comforting desserts beloved around the globe for its creamy texture and ability to adapt to many tastes. It's a dish that's equally at home at a family dinner or as a cozy solo treat. The best part is how easy it is to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
Practical Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding
- Choose the right rice: Short-grain white rice is ideal as it releases more starch, resulting in a creamier pudding. If you only have long-grain rice, you can still make it, but the result will be a bit less creamy.
- Low and slow is key: Stir your pudding frequently and cook it on low heat to avoid scorching the milk or having the rice stick to the bottom.
- Sweetener choices: Using xylitol or erythritol keeps this recipe sugar-free, but you can easily substitute with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar if preferred.
- No Greek yogurt? Swap in coconut cream or a dollop of butter for a rich finish.
Extra Preparation Details
- Consistency: If your pudding is too thick, just add a splash of milk until you reach your desired creaminess. On the other hand, a few extra minutes of simmering will help if it looks too runny.
- Infuse more flavor: Try a piece of orange or lemon zest simmered with the milk for a subtle citrus note.
- Batch size: This recipe multiplies well for larger gatherings—just use a bigger pot and maintain low heat, stirring regularly.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Serving ideas: Top with toasted nuts, fresh berries, or a spoonful of jam for a burst of color and flavor. For a comforting breakfast, add a sprinkle of chopped dried fruit or a swirl of almond butter.
- Make it vegan: Replace regular milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk and use a plant-based yogurt for the final touch.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cardamom, nutmeg, or star anise makes your rice pudding anything but basic.
