Creamy Rice Pudding Cinnamon

I still remember the first time I made this creamy rice pudding on a chilly evening, the warm cinnamon aroma instantly wrapped the kitchen in comfort like a cozy blanket.

One evening, unexpected guests arrived and I whipped up this pudding with whatever was in the fridge - it saved the day and became a go-to crowd-pleaser ever since.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: I choose whole milk for its creamy richness that really brings the pudding to life.
• Heavy cream: Adds a silky smoothness that turns simple rice pudding into something truly decadent.
• Unsalted butter: Just a bit to enrich the texture without overpowering the gentle flavor.
• Arborio or short-grain rice: These varieties release starch slowly, giving the pudding that classic creamy bite.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness balanced to highlight the cinnamon without being cloying.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to every spoonful.
• Ground cinnamon: The star flavor that dances on your tongue and fills your kitchen with cozy vibes.
• Pinch of salt: Just enough to tie all the flavors together.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Gather your milk, cream, butter, rice, and spices within arm's reach so the process flows smoothly.

Warm It Up:

Gently simmer the milk, cream, and butter with a pinch of salt, watching tiny bubbles form around the edges and stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Rice:

Add the rice and lower the heat to keep a soft simmer, stirring frequently so the grains soften steadily without burning at the bottom.

Add Sweetness and Spice:

Stir in sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon ensuring the sugar dissolves completely, infusing the pudding with comforting aroma.

Let It Rest:

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly; the pudding will thicken beautifully while standing.

Serve and Enjoy:

Whether warm or chilled, garnish with extra cinnamon or your favorite toppings and see faces light up with every bite.

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This pudding became more than just a dessert when I served it at a family gathering and heard stories flow as freely as the cinnamon-scented warmth we all savored.

Keeping It Fresh

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where the pudding will thicken further but stay just as delicious. Stir gently before serving again.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Try topping with fresh berries, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey for a flavor twist that brightens the creamy base.

When You're Missing Something

If you run out of vanilla or cinnamon, a splash of orange blossom water or a grated zest of lemon can add a surprising and delightful twist.

• Don’t forget to taste as you go so you can adjust the sweetness with confidence.
• A sprinkle of nutmeg can be a quick flavor upgrade if you like a warmer spice profile.
• Leftover pudding can be transformed into a cozy overnight breakfast with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit.

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Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me—may your rice pudding always be creamy and your cinnamon smell fill the whole house.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Short-grain rice like Arborio is ideal for a creamy texture, but other short-grain varieties can work well too.

→ Can this be made dairy-free?

Substituting half or all milk with coconut milk adds richness while keeping the creaminess intact.

→ How long should it be cooked?

Rice simmers for about 25–30 minutes until tender, then combined with flavorings and cooked 5 more minutes.

→ What enhances the cinnamon flavor?

Adding a pinch of ground cinnamon during cooking and a sprinkle on top intensifies the warm spice notes.

→ Can it be served warm or chilled?

Both options work well; serving warm highlights comfort, while chilling firms the texture for a refreshing treat.