If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, baked rice pudding is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, sweet, and infused with warm spices, making it a classic that brings back fond memories of home. This easy baked rice pudding recipe will guide you through each step, with simple ingredients and clear instructions. Whether you’re serving it warm or chilled, this dessert is sure to please.
Why Choose Baked Rice Pudding?
Baked rice pudding is a delightful way to use pantry staples and leftovers like cooked rice. It’s a versatile dessert that can be adapted to suit different preferences, whether you’re adding a splash of vanilla or a handful of raisins. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rice from meals like Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.
Rice pudding has a long history as a comforting and easy dessert. It’s quick to whip up, and once it’s in the oven, you can sit back and relax. For a variation, you might want to try pairing your rice pudding with a side of Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup for a full comfort food meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the essential ingredients to create this classic dish:
- 2 cups of cooked rice (leftover rice works great)
- 3 cups of whole milk (can substitute with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- Butter for greasing the dish
Step-by-Step Recipe for Baked Rice Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Grease Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a baking dish to prevent the pudding from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a smooth and creamy custard base.
Step 3: Combine the Rice and Custard
Stir in the cooked rice and raisins (if using). Make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the mixture so that it bakes uniformly.
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
Pour the rice and custard mixture into your prepared dish. Bake it for 30-40 minutes, or until the pudding is set. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean but the pudding still has a slight jiggle.
For a golden, caramelized top, you can broil the pudding for 3-5 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Delicious Variations of Baked Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a blank canvas that you can easily modify to create different flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Raisin-Free Version: If you’re not a fan of raisins, try substituting them with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
- Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding: For a tropical twist, substitute the whole milk with coconut milk. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to the pudding.
- Spiced Rice Pudding: Add extra spices like cloves or cardamom for a spiced version that’s perfect for the fall and winter months.
You could even serve your pudding alongside a fun dessert like Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls for an indulgent treat.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Rice Pudding
- Choosing the Right Rice: For the best results, use short-grain rice such as Arborio or sushi rice, which absorbs liquid and creates a creamy consistency.
- Prevent Dryness: If your pudding tends to dry out while baking, cover it with foil for the first 20 minutes and then remove it for the remaining time. This will keep it moist while still allowing the top to become golden brown.
- Adjust Sweetness: You can easily adjust the sugar in this recipe based on your personal preference. If you’re using sweetened condensed milk or additional dried fruit, reduce the sugar accordingly.
FAQs About Baked Rice Pudding
Here are some common questions about making baked rice pudding:
What Type of Rice Should I Use?
For a creamy texture, it’s best to use short-grain rice like Arborio. Long-grain rice can be used, but it won’t absorb the liquid as well, resulting in a less creamy pudding.
Can I Use Leftover Rice?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with leftover rice from meals like Pulled Pork Mac n Cheese or any other rice-based dish. Just be sure to measure out 2 cups for this recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Rice Pudding?
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture and warm it in the microwave or oven.
Serving Suggestions
Baked rice pudding is a wonderfully versatile dessert. Here are some serving ideas to make it even more special:
- Warm or Cold: Rice pudding can be served warm straight from the oven or chilled in the fridge for a cool treat.
- With Toppings: Sprinkle extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor. You can also top it with whipped cream or serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- With Fruit: For a lighter touch, serve the pudding with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. You could also pair it with a side of Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes for a colorful dessert spread.
Final Thoughts
Baked rice pudding is a simple, versatile dessert that delivers big on comfort and flavor. With a creamy texture and warm spices, it’s the perfect dessert to enjoy any time of year. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or just craving a sweet treat, this easy baked rice pudding recipe will surely satisfy.
Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding different spices or fruits to suit your taste. Serve it warm or cold, and enjoy the nostalgic, homey feel that rice pudding brings to the table.
For more delicious comfort food ideas, don’t forget to explore other recipes like Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles for your next meal!
1 thought on “Easy Baked Rice Pudding Recipe: Comfort in Every Spoonful”