There are some desserts that feel like a warm hug, and rice pudding with cinnamon is at the top of that list. The first time I made it, I remember standing in my kitchen, spoon in hand, completely surprised by how a handful of simple ingredients—rice, milk, sugar, and spice—could create something so comforting.
If you’ve been searching for a creamy rice pudding recipe that’s easy, cozy, and packed with flavor, you’re in the right spot. This version is simple enough for a weeknight treat yet special enough to serve to guests. And yes, it’s loaded with cinnamon, which makes the whole house smell like dessert heaven.
Why Rice Pudding with Cinnamon Hits Different
Rice pudding is already known for its smooth, velvety texture, but adding cinnamon changes everything. Cinnamon brings warmth and depth, cutting through the richness of the milk and sugar. It transforms an already good dessert into something memorable.
Think of it like putting on your favorite sweater—it’s cozy, familiar, and somehow makes life feel a little better. That’s exactly what cinnamon does for rice pudding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this homemade rice pudding with cinnamon. Nothing fancy—just pantry staples.
- 1 cup white rice (short-grain gives the creamiest results)
- 4 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk for a vegan rice pudding)
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional, for a cinnamon raisin rice pudding)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice in water until it’s tender. This usually takes about 15 minutes. Drain any extra water.
Step 2: Combine with Milk and Sugar
In a large saucepan, add the cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Stir well.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring often. You want the milk to reduce and thicken. After about 20–25 minutes, it should look creamy and luscious.
Step 4: Add Raisins (Optional)
If you’re making a rice pudding recipe with raisins, add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. The raisins plump up beautifully.
Step 5: Serve Warm or Cold
Scoop the pudding into bowls and dust with extra cinnamon. It’s delicious served warm right off the stove, but equally good chilled.
Tips for the Creamiest Rice Pudding Recipe
- Use short-grain rice: It has more starch, which helps create that silky consistency.
- Don’t rush the simmering: Stir often to prevent sticking and to help the pudding thicken naturally.
- Try half-and-half or coconut milk: For an ultra-rich or dairy-free twist.
- Sweetness level: Adjust sugar to your taste. Some prefer it mild, others like it indulgent.
Variations to Try
Vegan Rice Pudding
Swap dairy milk for almond, coconut, or oat milk. The flavor changes slightly but stays delicious. Coconut milk adds a tropical spin.
Cinnamon Raisin Rice Pudding
Raisins bring extra texture and sweetness. Some people even soak them in rum or orange juice first for extra flavor.
Easy Rice Pudding (Shortcut)
Use leftover cooked rice. Just skip step 1 and jump straight to simmering with milk and sugar. Perfect for weeknights.
How to Serve Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is versatile. You can enjoy it plain or jazz it up.
- Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce.
- Top with fresh fruit like bananas or berries.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of milk before warming to loosen it up.
- Freezer: Not recommended. The texture gets grainy.
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Ingredients
Method
- Place rice in a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Cook over medium heat until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain extra water if needed.
- Add the cooked rice back to the pan. Pour in milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Stir well.
- Reduce heat to low. Let it cook gently, stirring often so it doesn’t stick. After about 20–25 minutes, it will become thick and creamy.
- If you’re using raisins, add them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering so they plump up.
- Spoon into bowls. Dust with extra cinnamon on top. Serve warm or chill in the fridge before eating. Both ways taste amazing.
Notes
- If pudding thickens too much after cooling, just stir in a splash of warm milk to loosen it.
- Short-grain rice makes it creamier, but long-grain rice works too.
- For a dairy-free version, coconut milk gives it a rich, tropical flavor.
FAQs about Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Q: Can I make rice pudding ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Q: How do I prevent rice pudding from becoming too thick?
Keep an extra ½ cup of warm milk nearby. If the pudding thickens more than you like, stir it in until it’s the right consistency.
Q: Is rice pudding gluten-free?
Absolutely. Rice is naturally gluten-free, so this dessert works well for anyone avoiding gluten.
Q: What’s the best rice for rice pudding?
Short-grain white rice or Arborio rice gives you the creamiest results. Long-grain rice works but isn’t as silky.
Q: Can I make sugar-free rice pudding?
Yes, substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a natural sweetener.
