Old Fashioned Rice Pudding
Description
This old-fashioned rice pudding is a nostalgic treat that combines tender cooked rice with a rich, creamy custard base. Infused with vanilla and brightened by fresh lemon zest and juice, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Plump raisins add bursts of natural sweetness and chewy texture throughout. Baked in a water bath, the result is a smooth, spoonable dessert that is neither too heavy nor too light. It serves beautifully warm from the oven or chilled, making it a versatile option for family dinners or casual gatherings. Simple ingredients come together to create a comforting classic that feels like home.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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Bring the 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the uncooked rice and 1 teaspoon of salt.
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Cook the rice until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
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In a medium bowl, combine the milk, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon soft margarine or butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 lightly beaten eggs. Whisk until smooth.
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Fold the cooked rice, 1/3 cup raisins, 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice into the milk mixture.
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Lightly grease a 1 1/2-quart baking dish. Pour the rice mixture into the dish.
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Place the baking dish into a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with warm water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
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Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let cool slightly before serving warm, or chill thoroughly before serving cold.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 85.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.9g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.6g3%
- Cholesterol 1.6mg1%
- Sodium 4907.4mg205%
- Total Carbohydrate 15.2g6%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 4.0g
- Protein 3.8g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. The pudding will firm up as it cools.
Substitutions: You can use short-grain or medium-grain rice for a creamier texture. Raisins can be omitted or replaced with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
Tip: For extra richness, use half milk and half heavy cream instead of all milk.
Historical Note: The original recipe suggested saving the starchy rice water for starching curtains and collars, a common household tip in the mid-20th century.