The Ultimate Baked Rice Pudding
Introduction
This classic Baked Rice Pudding is the epitome of comfort food. With its creamy, custard-like interior and perfectly caramelized golden top, it’s a nostalgic dessert that brings warmth and elegance to any table.
Ingredients
1 cup Arborio or short-grain white rice (rinsed)
4 cups whole milk (for maximum creaminess)
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, beaten
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Parboil the rice in 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes, until slightly tender. Drain well.
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and melted butter until smooth.
Stir the parboiled rice into the custard mixture, ensuring even distribution.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and lightly dust the surface with cinnamon.
Bake for 45–60 minutes. Stir once halfway through baking to prevent the rice from settling. Leave undisturbed for the final 20 minutes to allow a delicate skin to form.
How to Make (Golden Top Tip)
For a beautifully caramelized crust, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar over the pudding during the final 5 minutes of baking. Switch the oven to broil for 60–90 seconds, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Serve warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a firmer, custard-like texture. A dollop of whipped cream makes it extra indulgent.
Variations
Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a bright, aromatic note.
Fruit Inclusions: Fold in ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries before baking.
Tropical Style: Replace half of the milk with coconut milk and finish with toasted coconut flakes.
Tips
Choose the Right Rice: Short-grain rice like Arborio releases more starch, creating a rich and velvety pudding.
Don’t Overbake: The center should still have a gentle jiggle—it will set as it cools.
Temper the Eggs: Whisk a small amount of warm milk into the eggs before combining to prevent curdling.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Protein: 7 g
- Sugar: 22 g
Health Benefits
Calcium-Rich: Milk and cream support strong bones and teeth.
Sustained Energy: Rice provides complex carbohydrates for lasting energy.
High-Quality Protein: Eggs supply essential amino acids for muscle repair and overall health.
Conclusion
Whether served as a cozy weeknight dessert or the star of a family gathering, this baked rice pudding is a timeless classic. Simple ingredients, rich flavor, and a golden finish make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.