Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

Instructions: How to Make Creamy Baked Rice Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the oven is at the right temperature for baking the pudding.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the Arborio rice and 2 cups of milk. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture reaches a simmer, reduce the heat and let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes, until most of the milk has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Mix the Custard Base
While the rice is cooking, in a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, remaining 1/2 cup of milk, butter, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon (and nutmeg, if using). This mixture will form the creamy custard that will enrich the rice pudding.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Custard
Once the rice is cooked and softened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture into the rice, stirring constantly to combine. Make sure to mix it thoroughly so that the rice is coated evenly with the custard.

Step 5: Add Raisins (Optional)
If you’re using raisins, stir them into the mixture now. The raisins will absorb some of the liquid and soften as the pudding bakes, adding a sweet, chewy texture that complements the creamy rice.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the rice pudding mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish (or similar-sized casserole dish). Smooth out the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Pudding
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden on top. You’ll know it’s done when the pudding is firm to the touch and has a slight jiggle in the center. Be sure to check the pudding halfway through to ensure it’s baking evenly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. For extra flavor, sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top before serving. This rice pudding can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Why This Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is a Must-Try

This dish is much more than just a sweet treat. It’s a comforting, hearty dessert that satisfies your craving for something rich and indulgent without being overwhelmingly heavy. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Creamy Texture: The Arborio rice helps create a creamy, custard-like texture, while the baking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Cinnamon Spice: The addition of cinnamon gives the pudding a warm, fragrant kick that makes every bite feel cozy and comforting.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness to your taste, add raisins or other dried fruits, or even mix in a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra flavor boost.
• Simple Ingredients: The recipe calls for basic pantry staples, making it an affordable dessert that you can make any time you have a craving for something sweet.
• Versatility: This rice pudding can be enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, or served chilled, making it a great dessert for all seasons. It also makes for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack!

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Rice Pudding

1. Use Short-Grain Rice: Arborio rice is the best choice for rice pudding because its higher starch content creates a creamy, smooth texture. Other short-grain rice varieties work well too.
2. Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so be sure to check the pudding around the 40-minute mark to avoid overbaking. You want a custard-like texture with a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done.
3. Serve with Toppings: While cinnamon is delicious on top, you can also serve your rice pudding with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
4. Let It Set: If you plan to serve your pudding cold, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This helps it set and gives it a smooth, creamy consistency.

Healthier Variations of Creamy Rice Pudding

If you’d like to make the recipe a bit healthier, consider these substitutions:

• Use a sugar substitute: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try using a natural sweetener like maple syrup, stevia, or coconut sugar.
• Swap the milk: For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk instead of whole milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety to control the sweetness.
• Add nuts or seeds: For added texture and healthy fats, sprinkle some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts on top of the rice pudding before baking or serving.

Conclusion

Creamy baked rice pudding with cinnamon is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of cozy flavors that make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic dessert that reminds you of childhood or a simple, satisfying treat to end a meal, this rice pudding recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a year-round favorite.

So go ahead, treat yourself to a bowl of this creamy goodness and enjoy every spoonful of this timeless dessert!