Sticky Cinnamon Rice Pudding is a warm, creamy dessert that brings together the cozy comfort of slow-cooked rice with the rich aroma of cinnamon and vanilla. This classic dish is elevated with a luxurious texture and deep flavor that make it perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or when you simply want a nostalgic sweet treat with a homemade touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture: Slow-cooked rice absorbs sweet milk and spices for the ultimate comforting experience.
- Naturally sweetened: Made with brown sugar or honey, it’s gently sweet without being overly sugary.
- Aromatic and cozy: Infused with cinnamon and vanilla for a warming, fragrant dessert.
- Flexible: Enjoy warm or cold, plain or with toppings like fruit or nuts.
- Simple ingredients: Pantry staples make this dish easy to prepare at any time.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- white rice (short-grain or medium-grain)
- whole milk (or a blend of milk and cream)
- water
- cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon
- vanilla extract
- brown sugar or honey
- salt
- optional toppings: raisins, chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, whipped cream
directions
- Cook the rice: In a saucepan, bring rice and water to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Add milk and spices: Stir in the milk, cinnamon, salt, and half the sugar. Cook uncovered over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer to thicken: Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy—about 20–25 minutes. Add more milk if it becomes too thick.
- Finish with vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract and remaining sugar or honey to taste. Remove from heat.
- Cool and serve: Serve warm for a comforting dessert or chill for a refreshing pudding. Top with your choice of garnishes.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-free: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a lactose-free version.
- Spiced version: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or clove for deeper flavor.
- Fruity twist: Stir in raisins or chopped apples during the final minutes of cooking.
- Toasted nut topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts on top for crunch.
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk and maple syrup as the sweetener.
storage/reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as texture may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use any type of rice?
Short- or medium-grain rice is best for creaminess. Long-grain may be less sticky but still usable.
Does it have to be served warm?
No. It’s delicious both warm and chilled, depending on preference.
Can I use instant rice?
It’s not recommended, as it may turn mushy. Traditional rice holds up better in texture.
What’s the best way to prevent burning?
Stir often, especially once milk is added, and cook over low heat.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients except vanilla and cook on low for 2–3 hours. Stir in vanilla at the end.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vanilla and no cross-contaminated ingredients.
Can I use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, reduce the added sugar to balance the sweetness.
What toppings work well?
Chopped nuts, dried fruit, caramel sauce, or even a dollop of whipped cream.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it takes longer to cook and yields a firmer texture.
How do I know when it’s done?
When the rice is soft and the mixture has thickened into a creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Sticky Cinnamon Rice Pudding is a timeless dessert that balances sweetness and spice in every spoonful. Whether served warm beside a fire or cold from the fridge on a summer evening, this dish delivers satisfying texture and heartwarming flavor. Easy to customize and even easier to enjoy, it’s a nostalgic recipe that deserves a place in every home cook’s repertoire.
Print
Sticky Cinnamon Rice Pudding
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sticky Cinnamon Rice Pudding is a creamy, spiced dessert featuring tender rice slow-cooked in milk with cinnamon and vanilla. Sweet, comforting, and easy to customize, it’s a cozy treat for any season.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup short- or medium-grain white rice
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups whole milk (or 1 1/2 cups milk + 1/2 cup cream)
- 1 cinnamon stick or 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey (divided)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: raisins, chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, whipped cream
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring rice and water to a simmer. Cover and cook on low until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Stir in milk, cinnamon, salt, and half the sugar. Cook uncovered on low, stirring often.
- Continue simmering 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently until thick and creamy. Add more milk if needed.
- Stir in vanilla extract and remaining sugar or honey. Adjust sweetness to taste and remove from heat.
- Serve warm or chilled with your favorite toppings like raisins, nuts, or whipped cream.
Notes
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking, especially after adding milk.
- Add more milk during cooking if the pudding becomes too thick.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and maple syrup.
- Chilling helps develop flavor—great served cold the next day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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