Rice pudding is a classic dessert that evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia. This creamy baked version, infused with cinnamon, takes this timeless recipe to the next level. The combination of soft rice, creamy custard, and the warm spice of cinnamon creates a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert is easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
To make a rich and creamy baked rice pudding, you’ll need the following:
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup (200g) of uncooked short-grain or arborio rice
- 4 cups (1 liter) of whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream
- ¾ cup (150g) of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
For Garnish:
- Ground cinnamon for dusting
- A handful of raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking. This ensures your pudding will come out smoothly after baking, and the butter adds a nice richness to the flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This step helps to prevent the rice from becoming too sticky during cooking.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. The rice should be partially cooked at this point.
Remove the rice from heat and let it cool slightly. It’s important that the rice cools a little before combining it with the custard, as this helps avoid curdling the eggs in the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using). This combination of ingredients is what makes the custard velvety and full of flavor. The cinnamon and vanilla, in particular, add that classic warmth to the pudding.
Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The milk and cream give the custard its rich texture, while the eggs act as a thickening agent.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked rice to the custard mixture and stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens! The rice absorbs the creamy custard, creating a soft, luscious texture that’s both comforting and decadent. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath will help the pudding cook evenly and prevent it from cracking. It also ensures a soft, smooth texture rather than a dry or rubbery one.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60–75 minutes, or until the pudding is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The edges of the pudding will firm up first, while the middle remains custard-like. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let the pudding cool for about 15 minutes. This allows the pudding to firm up slightly before serving.
Dust the top with ground cinnamon for added flavor and presentation. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also sprinkle some powdered sugar or even drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or chilled: Depending on your preference, you can enjoy this rice pudding either right away while it’s still warm or let it chill in the fridge for a few hours. The flavors often deepen after sitting for a bit, so both options are delicious.
- Add sweetness: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the pudding with caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture of the pudding pairs perfectly with the richness of caramel, while whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast.
- Texture and flavor boost: You can also add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor. These additions can provide a pleasant contrast to the smoothness of the pudding and add a delightful crunch.
Tips for the Perfect Rice Pudding
- Choose the Right Rice: Short-grain or arborio rice works best for rice pudding because of its natural creaminess. These types of rice absorb more liquid and create a thick, creamy texture, making them perfect for this dessert.
- Don’t Overbake: The pudding will continue to set as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep it creamy. It should have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven—this ensures that it will be perfectly smooth and custardy once it cools.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, feel free to reduce the sugar to ½ cup. Rice pudding can easily be tailored to your taste, so feel free to experiment with the level of sweetness.
- Infuse Flavor: For a deeper flavor profile, try adding a cinnamon stick or a strip of lemon peel while cooking the rice for a subtle flavor boost. This will add an extra layer of warmth and aromatic complexity to your pudding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: The creamy texture and warm cinnamon flavor make this a feel-good dessert. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home, and its sweet, comforting nature makes it a favorite for all ages.
- Customizable: This recipe is easily adaptable to suit your tastes. Add your favorite spices, dried fruits, or toppings to make it your own. You could even try experimenting with other flavorings like cardamom, ginger, or cocoa powder for a unique twist.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes impressive. It’s perfect for anyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs, and makes a great dish to share with family and friends.
Conclusion
Creamy baked rice pudding with cinnamon is the ultimate comfort dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its creamy texture, warm flavors, and versatility make it a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served warm on a cold winter evening or chilled for a refreshing treat, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, the next time you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Not only does this dessert evoke nostalgic memories of simpler times, but it also creates new ones, making it a perfect dish to serve at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even just a cozy night at home. Whether you enjoy it with a dusting of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of raisins, this rice pudding is a dish that’s sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.
