Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding

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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 180 minutes
Servings: 6
Equipment:
**Slow cooker**
measuring cups
measuring spoons
mixing spoon
Cuisine Type: American
Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding is a comforting dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia with every creamy bite. This slow cooker version allows the rice to gently simmer in a rich custard-like mixture, resulting in a velvety texture that envelops the sweet flavors of vanilla. The process is incredibly simple; just combine your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Perfect for indulging on a chilly evening or serving at family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite. What makes this rice pudding truly special is the use of real vanilla beans, which add an aromatic depth and luxurious taste that can’t be matched by vanilla extract alone.
The slow cooking method also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and elegant. Serve it warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh berries or raisins (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, combine the Arborio rice, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, salt, and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean along with the pod itself. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Allow the pudding to cook for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the sides and to guarantee even cooking.
- After 3 hours, check the consistency of the pudding. It should be creamy and thickened. If it’s too runny, let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, stirring frequently until it reaches your desired texture.
- Once the pudding has reached the desired consistency, remove the vanilla bean pod, and give the pudding a final stir. If you’d like to add ground cinnamon, fold it in at this stage for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve the vanilla bean rice pudding warm, or transfer it to individual bowls and refrigerate to enjoy chilled later. Top with fresh berries or raisins if desired for added sweetness and texture.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, feel free to substitute some of the whole milk with coconut milk. If you want to experiment with different flavor profiles, consider adding a touch of almond extract or a handful of chopped nuts for some crunch.
This pudding can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert option. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.