There’s something undeniably comforting about a dessert that transports you back to simpler times. This Irresistibly Creamy Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding wraps you in nostalgia, with tender rice soaked in a luscious custard infused with vanilla and warm spices. What I love most about this baked rice pudding is how easy it is to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Whether you serve it warm or allow it to chill for a firmer texture, it’s bound to be a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Plus, this recipe is versatile—feel free to experiment with mix-ins or substitutions to make it your own! Curious about how to create this comforting classic? Let’s dive in!
Why is Baked Rice Pudding a Must-Try?
Comforting and Nostalgic: This creamy baked rice pudding evokes cherished memories, making it the perfect dessert for family gatherings.
Easy and Quick: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, whip up this dessert without any fuss, ideal for anyone wanting to escape fast food.
Delightfully Versatile: Customize your pudding by adding your favorite mix-ins, like dried cranberries or even a splash of rum for an adult twist!
Great for Any Occasion: Whether served warm after dinner or chilled as a refreshing treat, it suits every palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Trust me, this dessert garners rave reviews from kids and adults alike, making it a beloved staple in any home.
Don’t forget to explore other comforting meals like Baked Chicken Rice or even Cheesy Taco Rice for a delightful dinner experience!
Baked Rice Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding Base
• ¾ cup (150g) uncooked white rice – This is the foundation of your baked rice pudding; for extra creaminess, opt for Arborio rice.
• 3 cups (720ml) whole milk – This adds richness; feel free to substitute with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary needs.
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) sweetened condensed milk – It provides that signature sweetness and creamy texture; no extra sugar is needed.
For the Flavorful Custard
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the dessert’s overall flavor profile; using pure vanilla extract is highly recommended.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Infuses warmth; adjust according to your preference.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Adds depth to the flavor; can be left out if you prefer a simpler taste.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing the sweetness of the baked rice pudding.
For Binding and Texture
• 2 large eggs – These are crucial for setting the custard and ensuring that perfect creamy texture.
For Sweetness and Texture (Optional)
• ½ cup (80g) raisins or sultanas – These provide delightful bursts of flavor; you can easily swap them for dried cranberries or chopped dates if desired.
With this ingredient list in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistibly Creamy Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease an 8×8-inch baking dish, ensuring the bottom and sides are well-coated to prevent sticking. This step sets the stage for your baked rice pudding, making the cleanup easy and allowing the custard to slide out effortlessly when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a saucepan, bring 1½ cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add ¾ cup of uncooked white rice, cover the pan, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Once cooked, drain the rice and let it cool slightly, giving it the perfect texture for your creamy pudding.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of whole milk, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon (if using), ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg (optional), and ¼ teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs well and then add them to the milk mixture. This creates a rich custard that will envelop the rice beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Custard
Evenly spread the cooked rice in the greased baking dish. If you’re using ½ cup of raisins, sprinkle them on top of the rice for added sweetness and texture. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the rice, making sure it covers the rice completely. Gently stir with a fork to combine, ensuring each grain of rice is coated in the creamy custard.
Step 5: Create a Water Bath
Place the baking dish inside a larger baking pan. Fill the outer pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath will help bake the rice pudding evenly, preventing it from drying out and ensuring it remains creamy and tender throughout the baking process.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the rice pudding in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes. During baking, gently stir the pudding halfway through to distribute the rice evenly. The pudding is done when the top is golden and it has a slight jiggle in the center, indicating a creamy texture—just perfect for a comforting dessert.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes. This short cooling period allows the custard to set further. You can enjoy the baked rice pudding warm, or cover it and chill it in the refrigerator for a firmer texture, making it a delightful treat any time of year.
Baked Rice Pudding Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a baked rice pudding that suits your tastes and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist that’s also vegan-friendly.
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Sweetness Swap: Try using honey or maple syrup instead of sweetened condensed milk for a more natural sweetness.
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Flavor Boost: Add a splash of rum or almond extract to the custard for a delightful, adult-friendly flavor.
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Fruity Twist: Replace raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even fresh chopped apples for a refreshing texture variation.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor that balances the creaminess.
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Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cardamom, ginger, or allspice to create unique flavor profiles tailored to your taste.
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Decadent Chocolate: Fold in some chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey version that kids (and adults!) will adore.
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Cereal Delight: Top your pudding with granola before serving for a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the pudding itself.
These easy swaps ensure your baked rice pudding stays exciting each time. For more comforting and delicious meal ideas, check out Creamy Angel Chicken Rice or Beef Pepper Rice. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Make Ahead Options
This Irresistibly Creamy Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding is perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights! You can prepare the rice and custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the rice and let it cool before combining it with the custard ingredients. Pour this mixture into your greased baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For best quality, add the raisins right before baking to prevent them from becoming overly soft. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a delightful dessert that’s just as creamy and delicious!
What to Serve with Irresistibly Creamy Baked Rice Pudding
Indulging in the comforting embrace of this dessert opens the door to a delightful meal experience.
- Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the pudding for a decadent touch that complements its creamy texture perfectly.
- Crisp Vanilla Wafer Cookies: The light crunch of these cookies provides a delightful contrast to the soft, luscious pudding, adding layers of flavor.
- Fresh Berries: Brighten your dessert with a handful of juicy strawberries or blueberries; their freshness cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop softens the pudding’s sweetness and adds a luscious creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
- Cinnamon Sugar Toast: A twist on classic bread, this sweet toast adds a warm spice element that echoes the flavors of the pudding.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai complements the pudding’s spices with comforting warmth, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors.
- Fruit Compote: A spoonful of tangy compote adds brightness and contrast, bringing out the nostalgia of the dessert’s custard base.
- Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate adds sophistication and a rich depth, turning a classic pudding into an indulgent treat.
- Ice Cream Scoops: Serve warm rice pudding with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that melts slightly, merging flavors into pure bliss.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunchy granola over the pudding offers texture, enhancing its comfort while providing a wholesome touch.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Rice Pudding
Fridge: Keep your baked rice pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and ready for a delightful dessert whenever a craving strikes.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the pudding into airtight containers after it cools completely. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a convenient option for future desserts.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the pudding to the fridge overnight to thaw. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, preserving its creamy texture.
Serving: You can enjoy baked rice pudding warm or cold; chill it for a firmer texture or serve it fresh from the oven for a comforting treat.
Expert Tips for Creamy Baked Rice Pudding
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Rice Selection: Choose short-grain or Arborio rice for extra creaminess, which enhances the overall texture of your baked rice pudding.
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Monitor Baking Time: Avoid overbaking; a slight jiggle in the center indicates it’s perfectly set—a common mistake that can lead to dryness.
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Water Bath Importance: Don’t skip the water bath! It ensures even cooking and helps keep the pudding creamy, which is key for a delightful consistency.
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Enhance with Toasting: Lightly toast the rice before cooking to deepen the flavor—a simple step that elevates your baked rice pudding to new heights.
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Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates, or add spices like cardamom for a unique twist—get creative!
Baked Rice Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for baked rice pudding?
Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, I recommend using short-grain rice, such as Arborio. This variety absorbs more liquid, resulting in a rich and creamy pudding. If you’re in a pinch, long-grain rice can work, but it won’t yield the same custardy texture.
How can I store leftover baked rice pudding?
Very straightforward! Store your baked rice pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will be ready for you to enjoy as a quick dessert or snack whenever a craving hits!
Can I freeze baked rice pudding?
Yes, you can! To freeze your baked rice pudding, allow it to cool completely, then cut it into portions and place them in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw before reheating gently in the microwave or oven.
What should I do if my rice pudding is too watery?
Don’t worry! If your baked rice pudding turns out too watery, it might be due to undercooking the rice or not allowing it to set long enough in the oven. To remedy this, return it to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it — the pudding should have a slight jiggle when fully set.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This baked rice pudding can be made vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. If you have a dairy allergy, you can easily substitute whole milk with coconut or almond milk, and for egg allergies, you can use a flaxseed meal egg substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg — let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens).
Can I customize baked rice pudding with different ingredients?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment by adding dried cranberries, chopped dates, or spices like nutmeg or allspice. You can also include a splash of rum or almond extract for an extra flavor twist! Adapt this baked rice pudding to suit your taste and enjoy the results!
Irresistibly Creamy Baked Rice Pudding You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Cook ¾ cup of uncooked white rice in 1½ cups of boiling water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Beat the eggs separately and then add to the milk mixture.
- Spread the cooked rice in the greased baking dish and sprinkle with raisins if using. Pour the custard mixture over the rice and stir gently.
- Place the baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the top is golden and slightly jiggles.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving warm or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
