Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
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Few desserts capture comfort quite like baked rice pudding. With its velvety texture and gentle sweetness, this timeless dish has been cherished across cultures for generations. The addition of cinnamon infuses it with warmth and nostalgia, making it equally suited for casual family dinners or festive gatherings.
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Unlike stovetop versions, baked rice pudding develops a deeper, custard-like richness as it slowly cooks in the oven. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet familiar. Served warm on a chilly evening or chilled on a summer day, it’s a versatile treat that never loses its charm.
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Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 cup uncooked white rice | Tender, creamy base |
| 4 cups whole milk | Richness and creaminess |
| 1 cup heavy cream | Luxurious depth |
| 3/4 cup granulated sugar | Balanced sweetness |
| 2 large eggs | Custard-like texture |
| 1 tbsp vanilla extract | Flavor enhancer |
| 1 tsp ground cinnamon | Warm spice and aroma |
| 1/4 tsp salt | Balances sweetness |
| 1/2 cup raisins (optional) | Natural sweetness and texture |
| Butter (for greasing) | Prevents sticking, adds flavor |
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Rinse rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a saucepan, combine rice, milk, and salt.
- Simmer gently over medium heat, stirring often, until rice is tender and most liquid absorbed (15–20 minutes).
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Temper the mixture: slowly whisk in a little hot rice mixture to prevent curdling.
- Return tempered eggs to the saucepan, stirring continuously.
- Add heavy cream and mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Pour rice mixture into dish, smoothing the top.
- Sprinkle cinnamon over the surface.
- Add raisins if desired, either folded in or scattered on top.
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, until set and golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving to allow custard to firm.
Step 4: Serve
- Enjoy warm for cozy comfort or chilled for a refreshing treat.
- Garnish with extra cinnamon or whipped cream.
Cooking Tips
- Use full-fat dairy: Whole milk and cream ensure the creamiest texture.
- Temper eggs carefully: Prevents scrambled bits and keeps custard smooth.
- Flavor boost: Add a cinnamon stick while cooking rice, removing before baking.
- Prevent sticking: Generously butter the dish.
- Adjust sweetness: Reduce sugar if adding raisins.
- Extra indulgence: Try a splash of rum or vanilla bean paste.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3–4 days.
✨ This baked rice pudding is proof that simplicity can be luxurious. A dish born of humble ingredients, it delivers comfort, nostalgia, and elegance in every spoonful.
