Classic Rice Cinnamon Dessert

Featured in: Simple Homemade Desserts

This classic dessert combines tender short-grain rice gently simmered with whole milk, cream, and sugar to create a creamy texture. Infused with warm cinnamon and a touch of vanilla, it offers balanced sweetness and comforting spice. The slow cooking process softens the rice perfectly, while optional garnishes like raisins or nuts add extra texture and flavor. Serve warm or chilled for a versatile treat that's simple yet indulgent.

Updated on Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:06:00 GMT
Creamy rice pudding with cinnamon, garnished with raisins and warm, comforting flavors.  Save to Pinterest
Creamy rice pudding with cinnamon, garnished with raisins and warm, comforting flavors. | flourhollow.com

A creamy, comforting dessert featuring tender rice simmered in sweetened milk and warmly spiced with cinnamon.

This classic rice pudding has always been a family favorite, reminding me of cozy evenings spent together.

Ingredients

  • Short-grain white rice: 1/2 cup (100 g)
  • Whole milk: 4 cups (1 liter)
  • Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (30 g)
  • Granulated sugar: 1/3 cup (65 g)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
  • Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp plus extra for serving
  • Salt: 1/4 tsp
  • Optional garnishes: Ground cinnamon, to serve, raisins or chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Rinse rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Combine ingredients:
In a large saucepan, combine the milk, cream, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Cook rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 35 to 40 minutes or until the mixture is thick and the rice is tender.
Add vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let cool slightly; the pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.
Serve:
Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with extra cinnamon and garnished with raisins or nuts if desired.
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Sharing this dessert during family gatherings always brings smiles and warm memories.

Additional Tips

Adjust the sweetness to your liking or add a handful of raisins during cooking for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a sweet dessert wine or spiced chai for a perfect pairing.

Storage Information

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Classic rice pudding slowly simmered to perfection, offering a delightful creamy texture.  Save to Pinterest
Classic rice pudding slowly simmered to perfection, offering a delightful creamy texture. | flourhollow.com

This rice pudding is the perfect comforting treat to enjoy any time of the year.

Recipe FAQs

What type of rice works best for this dish?

Short-grain rice is ideal because it becomes tender and creamy when cooked slowly in liquid.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Yes, sugar quantities can be modified to personal taste, and adding raisins during cooking adds natural sweetness.

Is cinnamon essential for flavor?

Cinnamon provides a warm spice note that complements the creamy base, but it can be adjusted or omitted if preferred.

How long should the mixture be simmered?

Simmer for 35-40 minutes on low heat, stirring frequently until the rice is tender and the texture thickens.

Can this be prepared dairy-free?

Substituting coconut milk or other plant-based milks can create a dairy-free version, though texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Classic Rice Cinnamon Dessert

Comforting creamy dish with tender rice, sweet milk, and a warming hint of cinnamon.

Prep Duration
10 mins
Cook Duration
40 mins
Overall Time
50 mins
Created by Megan Turner


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type International

Serves 4 Servings Count

Dietary Details Meat-Free, Free of Gluten

Ingredient List

Grains

01 1/2 cup short-grain white rice

Dairy

01 4 cups whole milk
02 1/2 cup heavy cream
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Sweeteners

01 1/3 cup granulated sugar

Flavorings

01 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
02 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for serving
03 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Garnishes

01 Ground cinnamon, to serve
02 Raisins or chopped nuts (optional)

Steps

Step 01

Rinse rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 02

Heat milk mixture: Combine milk, cream, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and salt in a large saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 03

Cook rice: Add rinsed rice to the saucepan, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 35 to 40 minutes until thickened and tender.

Step 04

Add vanilla and cool: Stir in vanilla extract, remove from heat, and let cool slightly to allow further thickening.

Step 05

Serve: Serve warm or chilled, garnished with extra cinnamon and optional raisins or nuts.

Equipment Needed

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls

Allergy Info

Review every ingredient to spot potential allergens. Always confirm with your healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains milk derivatives (milk, cream, butter)
  • Gluten-free; verify for cross-contamination if highly sensitive
  • Optional nuts in garnish may cause allergic reactions

Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

Nutrition details are for reference and can't substitute for professional advice.
  • Caloric Value: 330
  • Fat content: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 46 g
  • Protein Amount: 7 g