How to Make Rice Pudding – Traditional British Comfort Food

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Rice pudding is a beloved British classic — warm, creamy, and comforting. Whether served hot with a sprinkle of nutmeg or chilled with a dollop of jam, it’s a simple yet satisfying dessert that has stood the test of time. Perfect for chilly evenings or family Sunday dinners, rice pudding is as nostalgic as it is delicious.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to make traditional British rice pudding from scratch using easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward method. Let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients

To serve 4–6 people:

100g pudding rice (or short-grain rice)

1 litre whole milk

50g caster sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

A knob of butter

Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (for topping)

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Optional Toppings

Jam (strawberry, raspberry, or blackcurrant)

Stewed fruits (like apples or rhubarb)

Golden syrup or honey

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Equipment Needed

Ovenproof dish or baking dish

Wooden spoon

Measuring jug and kitchen scales

Oven preheated to 150°C (130°C fan) / Gas Mark 2

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Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan) / Gas Mark 2.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large ovenproof dish, add the pudding rice, sugar, and vanilla extract (if using). Pour over the milk and stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Add Butter and Nutmeg

Dot the top with a knob of butter and sprinkle with a generous pinch of nutmeg. This gives the pudding that classic British flavour and aroma.

Step 4: Bake Slowly

Place the dish in the centre of the oven and bake for 2–2½ hours. Stir gently after the first 30 minutes to stop the rice from settling at the bottom. After that, let it bake undisturbed until the top is golden and a creamy texture has formed.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon into bowls and serve warm. Top with a spoonful of jam or leave plain — it’s delicious either way.

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Tips for the Best Rice Pudding

Use pudding rice if available, as it gives the best creamy consistency.

Whole milk provides richness — avoid skimmed milk for this recipe.

Stir only once at the start of baking — over-stirring will affect the creamy layer on top.

For extra creaminess, add a splash of double cream before serving.

Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk like coconut, almond or oat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Traditional British comfort food

✅ Only 5 main ingredients

✅ Family-friendly and budget-friendly

✅ Perfect make-ahead dessert

✅ Naturally gluten-free

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Variations

Cinnamon-spiced: Swap nutmeg for cinnamon for a warming twist.

Lemon zest: Add a little grated lemon zest for freshness.

Coconut rice pudding: Use part coconut milk for a tropical variation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make rice pudding on the hob?

Yes, though the texture may differ. Simmer gently in a pan for 30–40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Q: How do I store leftover rice pudding?

Allow to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the hob or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.

Q: Can I freeze rice pudding?

It’s possible, but not ideal — the texture can become grainy after defrosting.

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Final Thoughts

Rice pudding is a timeless British dessert that’s perfect for warming your soul on cold evenings. It’s easy to make, incredibly comforting, and customisable to your taste. Whether you love it plain or jazzed up with jam or spices, this humble dish never fails to please.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic spoonful of nostalgia!

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.