Introduction
Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich and velvety texture, combined with the aromatic hint of cinnamon, creates a delightful treat for any occasion. This dessert is perfect for those seeking a nostalgic flavor that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings.
The beauty of rice pudding lies in its simplicity. Made with humble ingredients like rice, milk, and sugar, it transforms into a luscious and satisfying dish with just a little care and attention. Adding cinnamon elevates its flavor, providing a comforting warmth that perfectly complements its creamy base.
This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or chilled for a refreshing treat. It’s a dessert that caters to all seasons and can be dressed up with toppings like raisins, nuts, or fresh fruit for a personalized touch.
Rice pudding is also a great make-ahead option for busy schedules. It keeps well in the refrigerator, allowing you to prepare it in advance and enjoy it whenever the craving strikes. Its ability to please a crowd makes it an ideal choice for potlucks, holidays, or simple family dinners.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is a recipe that delivers delicious results every time. It’s a dessert that brings people together, creating lasting memories with each creamy bite.
Ingredients
- Arborio or short-grain rice
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar
- Egg yolks
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Unsalted butter
- Raisins (optional)
- Nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring a creamy but not overly sticky pudding.
Cook the rice in a pot with water until it’s partially tender. This step ensures the rice absorbs flavors evenly during baking.
In a separate saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat the mixture gently, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar without scorching the milk.
Whisk egg yolks in a small bowl until smooth. Temper the yolks by gradually adding a small amount of the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
Combine the tempered yolks with the rest of the milk mixture, stirring well. This step creates a custard base that gives the pudding its creamy texture.
Add the partially cooked rice to the milk mixture, stirring gently to combine. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed for consistent baking.
Stir in vanilla extract and a generous sprinkle of ground cinnamon. These ingredients provide the warm, inviting flavors characteristic of this dish.
If desired, mix in raisins for a sweet and chewy contrast to the creamy rice. Nutmeg can also be added for an extra layer of spice.
Grease a baking dish with unsalted butter to prevent sticking and enhance the pudding’s richness.Pour the rice mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures uniform cooking and a smooth surface..
Dot the top with small pieces of butter to create a golden crust as the pudding bakes.Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and place the dish in the center rack. Bake until the pudding is set and the top is lightly golden, usually about 45-50 minutes.
During baking, the pudding may puff slightly. This is normal and indicates that the custard is cooking properly.remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Serve the pudding warm or chilled, dusted with additional cinnamon or topped with fresh fruit or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
How to Make
Start by gathering all the ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Having everything measured and ready will make preparation more efficient.
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This step ensures a creamy pudding without clumping.
Cook the rice in a pot of boiling water until it’s partially tender. This pre-cooking step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
In a saucepan, gently heat milk and heavy cream with sugar, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely. This mixture forms the creamy base of the pudding.
Whisk the egg yolks separately, ensuring they’re smooth and free of lumps. Temper the yolks by gradually adding a small amount of the warm milk mixture, whisking continuously.
Combine the tempered yolks with the milk mixture to create a rich custard. Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon for depth of flavor.
Add the pre-cooked rice to the custard mixture, stirring to distribute the grains evenly. This ensures every bite has the perfect balance of creamy custard and tender rice.
Optional ingredients like raisins or nutmeg can be added at this stage for additional texture and flavor.Prepare a baking dish by greasing it with butter. This step prevents sticking and enhances the pudding’s richness.
Pour the rice mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.Dot the top with small pieces of butter, which will melt and create a golden, slightly crispy crust.
Bake the pudding in a preheated oven until it’s set and the top is lightly golden. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean.Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. This resting period enhances the flavor and makes it easier to portion.
Serve the pudding as is, or dress it up with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a dusting of cinnamon.Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed cold or reheated gently in the microwave.
Tips
Use Arborio or short-grain rice for the creamiest texture. Long-grain rice may not achieve the same consistency.Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
Pre-cooking the rice is essential for even absorption of the custard mixture during baking.Temper the egg yolks carefully to prevent curdling. This step ensures a smooth and creamy custard.
Grease the baking dish generously to prevent the pudding from sticking and to enhance its flavor.Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
For a richer flavor, substitute part of the milk with coconut milk or evaporated milk.Raisins or chopped nuts can be added for texture, but they’re optional based on personal preference.
Serve the pudding with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent finish.Allow the pudding to rest after baking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting experience that warms the heart and soul. Its rich and velvety texture, paired with the warmth of cinnamon, makes it a treat that never goes out of style.
This dessert showcases the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. From the tender grains of rice to the aromatic spices, every element contributes to its irresistible charm.
Whether enjoyed warm on a chilly evening or cold on a summer day, rice pudding is a versatile dish that suits any occasion. Its adaptability allows you to experiment with flavors and toppings, making it uniquely yours.
The process of making rice pudding is as enjoyable as eating it. The gentle simmering, baking, and blending of flavors create a sense of calm and satisfaction.
This dessert is a reminder of the joy that comes from homemade comfort food. Sharing it with loved ones makes it even more special, turning simple moments into cherished memories.
Rice pudding is not just a treat; it’s a tradition that connects generations. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to bring people together, one creamy bite at a time.
As you savor each spoonful, take a moment to appreciate the balance of flavors and textures. The hint of cinnamon, the creamy custard, and the tender rice create a harmony that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Its success lies in the care and love you put into each step.
Celebrate the art of simple, satisfying desserts with this Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon. It’s a dish that leaves a lasting impression, both on the palate and in the heart.
Embrace the joy of creating and sharing this delightful pudding, knowing it’s a dessert that will be cherished for years to come.