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Rockin' Rice Pudding

This recipe creates a comforting and classic rice pudding with minimal effort. Cooked rice is simmered with milk, sugar, butter, raisins, and vanilla until creamy. Finished with fresh lemon zest and cinnamon, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and aromatic flavors. It's a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm or chilled, perfect for a simple, satisfying treat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: british
Calories: 2042
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3 cups white rice cooked
  • 3 cups milk
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon grated
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon divided

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Saucepan Heavy-bottomed to prevent scorching
  • 1 Microplane or Zester For grating lemon zest
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • 1 Serving Dish Bowl or individual ramekins

Method
 

  1. Combine cooked rice, milk, sugar and butter in a medium saucepan. Add raisins and vanilla. Cook for 25 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed. Mix in lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Spoon pudding into a serving dish and dust with remaining cinnamon. May serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For optimal creaminess, use a medium-grain starchy rice if possible, though white rice works well. Ensure the heat is kept low to medium-low during cooking to prevent the milk from scorching at the bottom of the pan; stir frequently, especially as the liquid reduces. The 25-minute cook time is an estimate; continue cooking until the pudding reaches your desired consistency and most liquid is absorbed. For enhanced flavor, a pinch of salt can balance the sweetness. Consider adding a touch of freshly grated nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth, or try different dried fruits like dried cranberries or chopped apricots for variety. Serving warm often highlights the vanilla and cinnamon, while chilling creates a firmer, more set pudding.