This creamy baked rice pudding casserole is the ultimate comfort dessert for busy families and home bakers looking for an easy, budget-friendly sweet recipe. With its golden caramelized top, rich creamy texture, and soft rice filling, this classic oven-baked dessert is perfect for breakfast, dessert, holiday gatherings, or cozy evenings. If you love easy homemade desserts with simple ingredients, this high-protein rice pudding bake will quickly become one of your favorite family recipes.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Powdered sugar for topping
Butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a medium glass baking dish with butter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, milk, heavy cream, and condensed milk.
Add the cooked rice and mix until fully combined.
Stir in cinnamon, salt, and shredded coconut if using.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the top becomes golden brown and slightly crispy.
Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Dust with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
How to Make
Start by using freshly cooked or leftover rice for the best creamy texture.
Whisking the eggs thoroughly helps create a smooth custard filling.
Using heavy cream makes the pudding extra rich and luxurious.
Bake until the center is set but still slightly soft for a perfectly moist dessert.
For a caramelized crust, broil the pudding for 2 extra minutes at the end.
Serve warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Variations
Add raisins or dried cranberries for a classic old-fashioned rice pudding flavor.
Mix in lemon zest or orange zest for a fresh citrus twist.
Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical dessert recipe.
Add chocolate chips for a kid-friendly baked rice dessert.
Sprinkle nutmeg on top for extra warm spice flavor.
Replace white rice with jasmine rice or arborio rice for a creamier texture.
Add chopped almonds or pecans for crunch.
Tips
Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
Do not overbake, or the pudding may become dry.
Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Let the casserole rest before cutting to help it set properly.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
This dessert tastes even better the next day.
Nutrition
Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 15g
Sugar: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Calcium: High in dairy nutrients
Potassium: Moderate amount
Healthy Benefits
Rice provides energy-boosting carbohydrates for daily activities.
Milk and cream contain calcium that supports strong bones and teeth.
Eggs are rich in high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
Homemade baked desserts contain fewer preservatives than packaged sweets.
Cinnamon may help support healthy blood sugar balance.
This comforting dessert can be customized with healthier ingredient options like low-fat milk or natural sweeteners.
Conclusion
This creamy baked rice pudding casserole is an easy homemade dessert recipe that combines rich flavor, simple pantry ingredients, and comforting texture in every bite. Whether you serve it as a cozy family dessert, holiday treat, or budget-friendly sweet snack, this baked rice pudding recipe is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.