Amish Cozy Delight: Rice Pudding

This Amish-style rice pudding is the epitome of comforting, old-fashioned dessert. Creamy, gently spiced, and sweetened with simplicity, it’s a humble dish that feels like a warm hug. The Amish version is often baked, resulting in a comforting, custard-like texture with tender rice throughout.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (100g) long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 4 cups (946ml) whole milk, divided

• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for serving

• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1/3 cup (50g) raisins or dried currants (optional)

• Heavy cream, half-and-half, or a pat of butter for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice

In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the uncooked rice, 1 cup of the milk, and the salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the milk and is tender.

2. Create the Pudding Base

Uncover the pan and add the remaining 3 cups of milk and the sugar. Increase heat to medium, stirring constantly until the mixture returns to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Reduce heat to low again.

3. Temper and Thicken

In a small bowl, take a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture and slowly whisk it into the beaten egg. This “tempers” the egg and prevents it from scrambling. Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.

4. Simmer to Perfection

Continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, for 20-30 minutes. The pudding will slowly thicken to a creamy, custard-like consistency. It should coat the back of the spoon. Patience is key here—do not rush by increasing the heat.

5. Finish and Serve

Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and raisins (if using). The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.

Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For the true “Cozy Delight” experience:

• Sprinkle with an extra dash of cinnamon.

• Add a small splash of cold heavy cream or a pat of butter on top of each warm bowl.

✨ Tips for Authentic Amish-Style Pudding

• Low & Slow: The secret to creamy, not gloppy, pudding is gentle, patient cooking.

• Stirring: Constant stirring prevents the milk from scalding and the rice from sticking.

• Rice Choice: Long-grain rice like Carolina Gold is traditional, but you can use medium-grain. Avoid pre-cooked or instant rice.

• Baked Variation: For a classic baked version, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, egg, and spices in a buttered 2-quart baking dish. Dot with butter and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring every 20-30 minutes, until set.

• Leftovers: Pudding will thicken in the fridge. Stir in a little extra milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Enjoy this simple, soul-warming dessert that turns basic pantry staples into a bowl of pure comfort.