National Rice Pudding Day is observed in the United States every August 9. This day celebrates rice pudding, a dish enjoyed globally, which can be served as either dessert or dinner. Recipes for rice pudding vary by country but typically include ingredients such as rice, milk or water, spices, and flavorings. In the U.S. and Canada, many rice pudding recipes were introduced by European immigrants, with a popular variation featuring long grain rice, milk, sugar or maple syrup, raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg. To celebrate, families often prepare rice pudding with unique twists, such as incorporating orange zest and pistachios. The dish is usually cooked partially in a bain-marie before being baked until ready.