Rice pudding is one of the most beloved traditional desserts across Latin America and Spain. It is made by slowly cooking rice in milk with sugar and cinnamon until it becomes rich, creamy, and comforting.
The dessert traces its roots back to European culinary traditions that spread throughout the Americas during the colonial period. Over time, each country developed its own version while preserving the classic combination of rice, milk, and warm spices.
Its simple ingredients, comforting flavor, and nostalgic appeal have made rice pudding a favorite homemade dessert enjoyed year-round by families of all generations.
Ingredients
- 200 g white rice (1 cup)
- 1 liter whole milk (4 cups)
- 500 ml water (2 cups)
- 150 g sugar (¾ cup)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 ml vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- 1 g salt (¼ teaspoon)
- 5 g ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon) for garnish
- 50 g raisins (⅓ cup), optional
Preparation
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clearer. Place it in a saucepan with the water, cinnamon sticks, and salt, then cook over medium heat until the rice becomes tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 25 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes while stirring constantly until the pudding thickens slightly.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks and add the raisins if using. Stir well so they are evenly distributed throughout the dessert.
- Serve warm or allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top just before serving.
Chef’s Tips
- Use whole milk for the richest texture.
- Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
- Keep the heat low once the milk is added.
- Add a splash of milk before serving if the pudding becomes too thick.
- Let it rest briefly before serving for better flavor development.
Traditional Variations
- Rice pudding with raisins.
- Rice pudding flavored with lemon peel.
- Rice pudding with cloves.
- Chilled rice pudding served cold from the refrigerator.
How to Serve
Traditionally, rice pudding is served in individual bowls or glass dishes and topped with ground cinnamon. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea and is commonly enjoyed as a dessert after lunch or dinner.
Recommended Side Pairings
- Brewed coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Cinnamon tea
- Butter cookies
- Homemade sponge cake
Did You Know?
Rice pudding is considered one of the oldest desserts in Hispanic cuisine, and nearly every Latin American country has developed its own traditional variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short- or medium-grain white rice usually produces the creamiest results because it releases more starch during cooking.
Yes. You can prepare it one or two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Rice continues absorbing liquid as it cools. Simply stir in a little extra milk before serving to loosen the texture.
Yes. Traditional recipes sometimes include cloves, lemon peel, or nutmeg to add extra aroma and flavor.
Both methods are traditional. Some people enjoy it warm, while others prefer it chilled after several hours in the refrigerator.
