Old Fashioned Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and eggs. It’s gently cooked until rich and smooth, then flavored with vanilla and warm spices like cinnamon. It can be served warm or cold and is a simple, classic treat.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the uncooked rice, milk, granulated sugar, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well to incorporate the egg.
Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Slow Simmer: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 60 to 90 minutes. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
Prepare for Broiling: Preheat your oven's broiler. Transfer the cooked pudding into a 9x9 inch baking dish or individual heat-safe ramekins.
Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the pudding and dot with the small pieces of butter.
Broil: Place under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching very closely, until the sugar is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the topping to set. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
Pro Tip: If the pudding looks too thick after simmering, stir in an extra 1/4 cup of warm milk before adding the topping. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.