Go Back
Creamy pudding rice in a bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon and vanilla essence

Salted Vanilla Rice Pudding

A comforting and creamy rice pudding with a hint of salt and vanilla, perfect for a cozy dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup pudding rice Short grain works best for creaminess
  • 4 cups Whole milk You can mix in some half and half for extra richness
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream Optional, but it makes it feel bakery level
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup Sugar Depends on your sweet tooth
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt This is the secret that makes the vanilla pop
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Or 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
  • 1 tablespoon Butter For a silky finish
  • 1 stick Cinnamon stick Optional for added flavor
  • a pinch Ground cinnamon Optional for added flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the pudding rice under cool water for about 20 seconds.
  2. Add the rice to a pot with the milk, sugar, and salt. If using a cinnamon stick, toss it in now.
Cooking
  1. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then turn it down to low.
  2. Stir every couple of minutes, scraping the bottom. After about 25 to 35 minutes, the rice should look plump, and the mixture should be thickening.
  3. Once it is thick and creamy, turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla and butter.
  4. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Texture is crucial; keep the heat low, stir often, and avoid over-reducing. Consider topping with toasted almonds or crushed pistachios for added crunch.