Louisiana Comfort at its Finest: Mom's Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding Recipe!

Photo byGianna Recipes

In Louisiana, food is more than sustenance—it's a way of life. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, there's always room for a classic comfort dish that reminds you of home. One such dish is Mom's Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding, a timeless Louisiana-style dessert that embodies simplicity and warmth.

With Louisiana's deep connection to rice cultivation, it's no surprise that rice pudding has become a beloved dessert across generations. The beauty of this dish lies in its rich, creamy texture and the blend of subtle spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, transforming humble ingredients into something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why Rice Pudding is a Louisiana Staple

Louisiana is one of the top rice-producing states in the U.S., making it the perfect place for rice to shine in dishes both savory and sweet. From jambalaya to étouffée, rice is a staple in many classic Louisiana dishes, and when it comes to dessert, rice pudding offers a sweet way to end any meal. Mom’s Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding recipe stays true to the heart of Louisiana’s culinary tradition: it’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor, just like the best Southern comfort foods.

Recipe: Mom's Old-Fashioned Louisiana-Style Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 cups whole milk, divided
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 large egg, beaten

Directions:

1. Cook the Rice: If you don’t have cooked rice ready, prepare 1/2 cup of uncooked white rice according to package instructions to yield about 1 1/2 cups cooked rice.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, 1 1/2 cups of milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes thick and creamy—usually about 15-20 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Spices: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of milk with the beaten egg. Slowly stir this mixture into the rice pudding, along with the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins (if using). Continue to cook for 2-3 more minutes, stirring constantly until the pudding thickens to a perfect consistency.
4. Cool and Serve: Remove the pudding from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. You can serve it warm, with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish, or refrigerate it and serve chilled—it’s just as delicious either way!

Serving Size:

This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a small family gathering or just a little sweet treat to savor over a few days.

The Joy of Louisiana’s Rice Tradition

There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of rice pudding that brings people together. Its creamy texture combined with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg makes it a timeless dessert. Mom’s Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding is more than just a treat—it’s a testament to Louisiana’s rich agricultural roots and the love for simple, comforting meals shared with family and friends.

Whether you're whipping it up for a holiday dessert, a special gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this pudding is sure to evoke memories of old-fashioned home cooking and the sweet traditions of Louisiana’s kitchens.

For sources and more recipe variations, you can explore references from (Grumpy's Honeybunch)(Allrecipes)(Taste of Home)