Riz Au Lait French Rice Pudding

Indulge in the velvety, time-honored flavors of Riz Au Lait, the classic French rice pudding that transforms simple ingredients into pure comfort. This decadent dessert features creamy Arborio rice slowly simmered in rich whole milk infused with the aromatic essence of vanilla bean for an irresistibly luscious texture. Sweetened with just the right touch of sugar and finished with optional hints of warm cinnamon or nutmeg, this recipe is as versatile as it is indulgent—serve it warm for a cozy treat or chilled for a refreshing finish to any meal. With minimal prep and a luxurious payoff, this traditional French favorite is ideal for dessert lovers who crave effortless elegance.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 100 grams Arborio rice (or short-grain rice)
• 1 liter Whole milk
• 80 grams Granulated sugar
• 1 piece Vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)
• 1 pinch Salt
• 10 grams Unsalted butter (optional, for serving)
• 1 pinch Cinnamon powder or grated nutmeg (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water in a fine sieve until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents lumps in the pudding.

Step 2

In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it steams but does not boil. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching at the bottom.

Step 3

Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds and the bean pod (or the vanilla extract) to the milk. Stir to incorporate the vanilla flavor.

Step 4

Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt to the warm milk. Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.

Step 5

Cook the mixture uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 30 minutes. The rice should absorb most of the milk and become tender. Take care not to let it dry out; if necessary, you can add a splash of milk during cooking.

Step 6

After 30 minutes, stir in the sugar. Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pudding reaches your desired creamy consistency.

Step 7

Remove the vanilla bean pod if used. Taste and adjust sweetness or vanilla flavor if needed.

Step 8

Transfer the rice pudding to individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl. Optionally, swirl a small pat of butter on top of each portion for extra richness.

Step 9

Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or grated nutmeg if desired. Serve warm or allow to cool to room temperature. Riz au Lait can also be chilled in the refrigerator and served cold.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1227.2 grams (1227.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1150

Total Fat 41.60g	53%
Saturated Fat 24.50g	123%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.10g
Cholesterol 146mg	49%
Sodium 534mg	23%
Total Carbohydrate 157.00g	57%
Dietary Fiber 1.00g	4%
Total Sugars 130.10g
Protein 36.30g	73%

Vitamin D 460IU	2301%
Calcium 1288mg	99%
Iron 0mg	2%
Potassium 1593mg	34%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.6%

Protein: 12.7%

Carbs: 54.7%