1-First Step: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients Begin by assembling all your ingredients on the counter to make the process smooth and fun. Measure out 4½ cups of whole milk, 1½ cups of water, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 cup of Arborio rice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ⅔ cup of golden raisins if you’re using them. This mise en place helps avoid any mid-cooking scrambles, especially if you’re a busy parent juggling multiple tasks. Double-check measurements for the best results in your creamy rice pudding.

2-Second Step: Combine the Ingredients in the Pan In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the 4½ cups of whole milk, 1½ cups of water, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, the cinnamon stick, and 1 cup of Arborio rice. Stir everything well to mix, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed. This step builds the flavor base, with the cinnamon infusing from the start for that classic touch. Set your stovetop to medium-high heat and keep an eye on it as you bring it to a simmer.

3-Third Step: Bring to a Simmer and Cook Once combined, bring the mixture to an intense simmer over medium-high heat, stirring often to prevent the rice from sticking. After it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to a steady simmer and continue cooking for 35-45 minutes. Stir frequently during this time the rice will absorb the liquid and release starch, creating a creamy texture. If you’re new to making rice pudding, this step is where the magic happens, transforming basic ingredients into something truly special.

4-Fourth Step: Monitor and Adjust As the mixture cooks, check the rice for tenderness every 10 minutes or so. You’ll want the rice to be soft but still have some liquid left for that perfect creamy consistency. If it thickens too quickly, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. This method relies on the rice’s natural starch for creaminess, so no eggs are needed, and it’s ready when the mixture coats the back of a spoon. Remember, the total cook time is 35-45 minutes, so plan accordingly for your schedule.

5-Fifth Step: Finish and Cool Once the rice is tender, remove the pan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the ⅔ cup of golden raisins if desired, blending them in for even distribution. This adds the final flavor notes that make this classic rice pudding stand out. Transfer the pudding to ramekins or a serving dish and let it cool slightly before serving warm, or cover and refrigerate it for up to a day for a chilled treat.

6-Sixth Step: Serve and Enjoy Top each serving with a sprinkle of grated cinnamon for extra zest, and dish it out to your family or guests. This rice pudding yields about 6-8 servings, each around 250 calories, making it a light dessert option. For the best experience, serve it warm on a chilly evening or cold as a refreshing snack. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our cinnamon bread recipe for another cozy twist on flavors similar to this one.