Easy Greek Rice Pudding

Turn your kitchen into a cozy Mediterranean haven with this delightful Easy Greek Rice Pudding recipe. Creamy, aromatic, and packed with comforting flavors, this traditional dessert will transport your taste buds to the sunny hills of Greece. Whether you’re looking to whip up a sweet treat for a family gathering or simply craving a warm and soothing dessert, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire.

**Easy Greek Rice Pudding**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups whole milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ground cinnamon, for garnish

**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, whole milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid.
4. Continue simmering the rice for about 30-35 minutes, or until it reaches a creamy consistency and the rice is tender.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing it well into the creamy rice pudding.
7. Transfer the rice pudding into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish. Allow it to cool slightly at room temperature.
8. Cover the rice pudding with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
9. To serve, sprinkle a generous amount of ground cinnamon over the top of the rice pudding for a traditional Greek touch.
10. Enjoy a taste of Greece with each spoonful of this delicious Easy Greek Rice Pudding!

This delightful dessert is perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet ending to a delicious Greek-inspired meal. The creamy texture of the rice pudding, combined with the warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, creates a comforting treat that will be loved by all. Serve it chilled for a refreshing touch on warm days, or enjoy it warm for a more comforting experience during the cooler seasons. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or a drizzle of honey. Embrace the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and satisfying Easy Greek Rice Pudding recipe!