Some desserts bring back childhood memories and remind us of the warmth of home cooking. Bulgarian rice pudding is one of those timeless treats – simple, creamy, comforting and made with just a few everyday ingredients.

The combination of tender rice, creamy milk, a touch of sweetness and fragrant cinnamon creates a delicious homemade dessert that the whole family can enjoy. It is perfect for an afternoon treat or a little something sweet after dinner.

Ingredients

1 litre whole milk
150 g white rice
100 g sugar
200 ml water
1 sachet vanilla extract or vanilla sugar (optional)
½ tsp ground cinnamon for the mixture
Extra ground cinnamon for topping
A small pinch of salt

Instructions

Rinse the rice several times under cold water until the water becomes almost clear.
Place the rice in a saucepan with 200 ml of water and a small pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until most of the water has been absorbed and the rice starts to soften.
Gradually pour in the milk and stir gently.
Allow the mixture to simmer over a low to medium heat for approximately 25–30 minutes. Stir regularly to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Once the rice is tender and the mixture starts to thicken, add the sugar and vanilla.
Stir in half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the pudding reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
Divide the rice pudding between small serving bowls.
Allow it to cool slightly and sprinkle generously with ground cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy this traditional rice pudding warm or chilled straight from the fridge. Both versions are delicious!

For an extra comforting dessert, serve it with a little extra cinnamon on top.

My Kitchen Tip

Avoid allowing the pudding to become too thick while it is still cooking. The rice will continue absorbing the milk as it cools, making the pudding naturally thicker and creamier.

A few simple ingredients, a little patience and lots of homemade goodness!

Enjoy this traditional Bulgarian comfort dessert!