Greek Rice Pudding (Rizogalo) is the ultimate creamy, comforting dessert with a hint of warm cinnamon and vanilla. This traditional Greek treat is made with simple pantry staples like rice, milk, and sugar, slowly simmered to perfection for a thick, velvety texture. No eggs, just pure, rich creaminess!
Looking for a full Greek feast? Serve this creamy rizogalo after a savory dinner of Greek Lamb Meatballs (Keftedes), Fasolakia, and a Greek Village Salad for a perfect balance of flavors.
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Rizogalo, or Greek rice pudding, is a classic dessert enjoyed across Greece. It's a staple in Greek households, often served during family gatherings, offering a taste of Greek tradition and comfort.
If you love Greek comfort food, you may also enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of Avgolemono Soup or Easy Greek Lentil Soup, two popular Greek dishes perfect for cozy meals.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Traditional Flavor: Brings a taste of the Greek isles to your table.
- Creamy and Delicious: The perfect blend of Arborio rice and whole milk.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you already have.
- Serving: Enjoy it warm or chilled, any time of the year.
Greek Rice Pudding Ingredients
For this traditional Greek rice pudding, you'll need Arborio rice, known for its creamy texture. Whole milk is essential for richness, while sugar adds sweetness.
- Arborio Rice: This type of short-grain rice is known for its creamy texture when cooked, making it ideal for rice pudding.
- Water: Used to initially cook the rice, allowing it to absorb moisture and soften.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rice and balances the sweetness of the pudding.
- Whole Milk: Provides richness and creaminess. Its fat content is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
- Sugar: Sweetens the pudding, making it a delightful dessert.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: Provides a warm touch, adding depth to the pudding.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Milk Alternatives: If you choose not to use whole milk (recommended), you can substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sweetener: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Rice: Substitute Arborio rice with short-grain rice like sushi rice for a similar texture.
- Flavor: Add orange zest or lemon peel for a citrus note.
- Spice: Incorporate a cinnamon stick while cooking for additional depth of flavor.
How to Make Greek Rice Pudding (Rizogalo)
STEP ONE: Prepare the Rice
Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
STEP TWO: Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a large pot, combine the whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
STEP THREE: Combine Rice and Milk Mixture
Add the cooked Arborio rice to the simmering milk mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring continuously, for 30-40 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
STEP FOUR: Add Flavor and Serve
Stir in half of the ground cinnamon, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving warm, or transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for a few hours for a chilled dessert.
Top with remaining cinnamon before serving, if desired.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Stir the pudding continuously while cooking to prevent it from sticking and ensure even thickening.
✔️ DO Adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste.
✔️ DO Substitute a small portion of milk for heavy cream or add a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker texture.
❌ DON'T rush the cooking process. Pudding will need time to thicken.
Storage
Store any leftover Greek rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain its creaminess.
Recipe FAQs
Rizogalo is made of Arborio rice, water, salt, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
Rice pudding can be a healthy treat when enjoyed in moderation, especially if made with whole milk and moderate sugar. It provides a good source of calcium and energy.
Yes, you can use short-grain rice like sushi rice if Arborio rice is not available.
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📖 Recipe
Greek Rice Pudding (Rizogalo)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Large Pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon divided
Instructions
- Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- In a large pot, combine the whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture just begins to simmer.
- Add the cooked rice to the simmering milk mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring continuously, for 30-40 minutes, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Stir in the half of the ground cinnamon, mixing well. Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving warm, or transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for a few hours for a chilled dessert. Garnish with remaining cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- Milk Alternatives: If you choose not to use whole milk (recommended), you can substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sweetener: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Rice: Substitute Arborio rice with short-grain rice like sushi rice for a similar texture.
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