When I think about comfort in a bowl, this creamy rice pudding recipe comes first. It’s one of those simple breakfasts that remind you of slow mornings when the kitchen smells like warm vanilla and sweet milk. I still remember standing by the stove, stirring the pot, thinking, ‘Okay, this might just be worth every minute of waiting.’ The best part is how easy it is. You don’t need fancy ingredients or chef-level skills, just rice, milk, sugar, and a little patience. Whether you call it old fashioned rice pudding or homemade rice pudding, the texture stays the same—silky, soft, and comforting. And once you get that first spoonful, it’s hard to stop. I like mine warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon, but honestly, cold straight from the fridge? Still amazing. So if you’ve been looking for breakfast pudding ideas or easy rice pudding recipes that taste like nostalgia, this one’s your answer. A little creamy, a little sweet, and perfectly cozy—exactly how mornings should feel.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding Recipe
3) Ingredients for Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding
4) How to Make Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding
5) Tips for Making Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding
6) Making Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding
8) Try these Breakfast Recipes next!
9) Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

This creamy vanilla rice pudding recipe is a warm, nostalgic breakfast pudding that brings comfort in every spoonful. It’s rich, smooth, and easy to make, making it a favorite in my kitchen. You don’t need fancy ingredients or a lot of time, just a bit of patience and love.

It’s a flexible recipe that works for anyone craving a simple, homemade rice pudding that tastes like something from childhood mornings. Whether served warm or chilled, this creamy rice pudding hits that perfect balance between sweetness and coziness.

Perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends, this breakfast pudding can be made ahead, stored for later, and still taste like it just came off the stove.

2) Easy Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding Recipe

I always say this creamy vanilla rice pudding is like a hug in a bowl. We start with rice, milk, and sugar, but what makes it special is the patience we pour in while stirring. It’s not about speed, it’s about the texture that turns soft and smooth as the milk thickens.

For breakfast pudding, I love how it fits every mood. Some mornings I eat it plain, other times I add cinnamon or a drizzle of honey. It’s one of those easy rice pudding recipes that make you feel like you’ve done something wonderful for yourself with very little effort.

When I make it for guests, they always ask for seconds, which tells me this old fashioned rice pudding recipe never goes out of style. The aroma alone—sweet vanilla meeting warm milk—is pure comfort.

3) Ingredients for Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding

White Rice: Use short-grain rice for the creamiest texture. It soaks up milk perfectly and turns every bite soft and rich.

Whole Milk: This is the backbone of any creamy rice pudding. It adds that luscious smoothness you want in breakfast pudding.

Heavy Cream: Just a splash takes it from ordinary to indulgent. I promise it makes all the difference in texture.

Granulated Sugar: Sweet but not overwhelming. Adjust to your liking if you prefer it more subtle or dessert-sweet.

Vanilla Extract: The heart of the flavor. Good vanilla gives that cozy bakery scent we all love.

Salt: Just a pinch. It balances everything and makes the sweetness shine.

Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Optional, but I love how a sprinkle adds warmth at the end.

4) How to Make Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding

Step 1. Combine rice, milk, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You’ll smell the milk start to warm up—it’s the sign that magic is about to begin.

Step 2. Stir often, letting the rice cook slowly. It will begin to thicken after about 20 minutes, and you’ll see the milk turn silky. Keep stirring to keep it from sticking.

Step 3. Add sugar once the rice softens. Stir and let it melt into the mixture, adding sweetness throughout.

Step 4. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Keep stirring until it turns smooth and creamy. The scent of vanilla fills the kitchen—it’s irresistible.

Step 5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if you like. Warm or cold, it’s heaven either way.

5) Tips for Making Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding

Use the right rice. Short-grain gives you that velvety texture you’re after. Long-grain tends to stay separate and won’t turn as creamy.

Keep the heat low once it starts to simmer. Patience really pays off here. Stirring often makes sure nothing sticks or burns.

If you like it thicker, let it cook a little longer. For a looser texture, add a touch more milk at the end. Breakfast pudding is all about how you like it best.

And don’t forget to taste as you go. Sweetness is personal, and that’s part of the charm of a homemade rice pudding recipe.

6) Making Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding Ahead of Time

When I know mornings will be busy, I make my rice pudding the night before. It thickens as it cools, so I add a splash of milk before reheating. It tastes just as creamy as when it’s fresh.

Store it in small jars or cups so it’s easy to grab and go. It’s one of those rice pudding recipes that actually taste better the next day—the vanilla deepens, and the rice softens even more.

If serving for guests, warm it gently on the stove, not in the microwave. The texture stays smoother that way. Breakfast pudding like this deserves a little extra care.

7) Storing Leftover Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Before serving, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up again.

I’ve found that chilled rice pudding makes the perfect dessert too. It’s creamy, cool, and a little nostalgic. A drizzle of honey or a few berries on top can turn leftovers into something special.

When it comes to simple comfort food, homemade rice pudding never disappoints. It’s the kind of breakfast pudding that makes any morning feel softer around the edges.

8) Try these Breakfast Recipes next!

9) Creamy Vanilla Rice Pudding