Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Raisins
This delightful Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding is the perfect breakfast treat or sweet snack to indulge in. I created this recipe when I found myself without sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk, but the outcome was absolutely luscious! The jasmine rice absorbs the creamy milk and sugar mixture, elevating the comfort of classic arroz con leche. Infused with aromatic vanilla, warm cinnamon, and the zest of lemon, this pudding features plump raisins that add a delightful chewiness. Perfect for sharing, this recipe serves six and can be enjoyed warm or chilled. A dash of cinnamon powder on top finishes off this inviting dish beautifully, making it a family favorite.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
rice
1 cup (rinsed (jasmine rice recommended))
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
water
4 cups (divided)
milk
3 cups (whole or your preference)
sugar
1/2 cup (granulated)
vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (pure)
cinnamon sticks
2 (for infusing)
lemon peel
1 piece (the size of a lemon wedge)
raisins
1/4 cup (mixed in)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the rinsed jasmine rice, cover the pot, and remove it from the heat. Allow the rice to sit for 10 minutes to steam and soften.
2
After 10 minutes, drain any excess water from the rice and return it to the saucepan. Add the remaining 2 cups of water, salt, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the rice is tender.
3
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to keep it warm.
4
In the same saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon sticks, and the remaining lemon peel. Gently bring this mixture to a low boil, stirring continuously for about 10 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the flavors meld.
5
Remove the lemon peel and cinnamon sticks from the milk mixture, discarding them. Then, stir the cooked rice into the creamy mixture, turn the heat to medium-high, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly to combine.
6
Add the raisins to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
7
Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder on top for an extra touch. This dish can also be chilled and served later for a cool treat!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding?
It is a luscious, comfort-filled dish similar to classic arroz con leche, made with rice, milk, sugar, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and vanilla.
What type of rice is best for this pudding?
Jasmine rice is highly recommended for this recipe because it absorbs the milk mixture well and creates a creamy, soft texture.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve six people.
Can I make this rice pudding without evaporated milk?
Yes, this specific recipe was created to be creamy and delicious without the need for sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk.
Is this rice pudding recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this rice pudding is naturally gluten-free.
How should I serve the rice pudding?
You can enjoy this dish warm immediately after cooking or chilled from the refrigerator as a cool treat.
What can I use as a garnish?
A light sprinkle of cinnamon powder on top is the perfect finishing touch before serving.
How long does the rice need to steam initially?
After the initial boil, the rinsed rice should sit covered off the heat for 10 minutes to soften.
What kind of milk should I use?
You can use whole milk for maximum creaminess, or any milk of your preference.
Why is lemon peel included in the recipe?
Lemon peel is used to infuse the rice and the milk mixture with a subtle, bright citrus zest.
Should I rinse the rice before cooking?
Yes, the jasmine rice should be rinsed before starting the cooking process.
When do I add the raisins?
Add the raisins toward the end of the process and cook for about 2 minutes until the pudding reaches your desired thickness.
Do I leave the cinnamon sticks in the final dish?
No, you should remove and discard the cinnamon sticks and lemon peel after the milk mixture has infused and before adding the rice.
How much sugar is in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
Can I substitute the vanilla extract?
While pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor, you could use vanilla bean paste or omit it if necessary, though the flavor will change.
How long does it take to cook the rice until tender?
After the initial steam, the rice is boiled for an additional 10 minutes until it becomes tender.
What if I don't like raisins?
You can easily omit the raisins or substitute them with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a sweet, soft, and child-friendly dish that is often a family favorite.
Why do I need to stir the milk and sugar mixture for 10 minutes?
Stirring continuously helps the sugar dissolve completely and allows the flavors of the cinnamon, vanilla, and lemon to meld into the milk.
Can I use brown rice for this recipe?
Brown rice has a different texture and much longer cooking time, so it is not recommended for this specific creamy version unless adjusted significantly.
What is the purpose of adding salt to a sweet pudding?
A small amount of salt (1/2 teaspoon) helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the pudding.
How do I know when the pudding is thick enough?
The pudding is ready when it reaches a consistency you enjoy; it will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve a larger group, just ensure you use a large enough saucepan.
Is this considered a breakfast or a dessert?
This versatile dish can be served as a sweet breakfast treat, a snack, or a comforting dessert.
What happens if I overcook the rice?
Overcooking may lead to a mushier texture, but since it is a pudding, it will still be delicious and very creamy.
Can I use ground cinnamon instead of sticks?
Cinnamon sticks are best for infusing the milk without changing the color too much, but ground cinnamon can be used if sticks are unavailable.
How should I store leftover rice pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Does the rice pudding thicken when chilled?
Yes, rice pudding naturally thickens as it cools, so you may want to add a splash of milk when reheating.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, though it will slightly alter the traditional flavor.
What size should the lemon peel be?
The recipe suggests a piece of lemon peel about the size of a standard lemon wedge.