In a large saucepan, combine 4 ½ cups of milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Bring to a steep over medium heat, and stir until the sugar dissolves.
1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 4 ½ cups whole milk
Add the rice, and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, and cook the rice at a simmer. Stir every 5 to 7 minutes, or more often if necessary, to ensure the rice isn’t sticking or cooking too quickly.
½ cup arborio rice
Cook for 55 to 65 minutes until the rice thickens and is tender. Remove from the heat, and add the vanilla.
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract, ½ cups whole milk
Stir in the remaining ½ cup of milk just before serving. Garnish with ground cinnamon and raisins.
Serve warm or cold.