Cinnamon-Spiced Creamy Baked Rice Pudding
A classic, comforting dessert that bakes to creamy perfection with a hint of caramelization on top. This is old-fashioned, homestyle rice pudding at its best—rich, warmly spiced, and wonderfully simple.
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
· ¾ cup (150g) white rice (see note below on type)
· 4 cups (950ml) whole milk (for maximum creaminess)
· ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
· ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
· 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
· ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
· ¼ teaspoon salt
· 1 large egg, lightly beaten
· ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or additional milk
For the Topping/Serving:
· 1 tablespoon granulated sugar mixed with ½ teaspoon cinnamon
· Optional: Raisins or dried currants (½ cup, stirred in before baking)
· For serving: Whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of cold milk
Instructions
- Prep & Preheat:
· Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low-and-slow temperature is key for a creamy texture.
· Grease a 2-quart (approx. 2-liter) baking dish with butter.
· Important: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents gumminess.
- Combine & Bake (First Stage):
· In the prepared baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well.
· Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Stir gently every 20-25 minutes to prevent a skin from forming and to ensure even cooking.
- Enrich & Bake (Second Stage):
· In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and heavy cream.
· Temper the egg mixture: Slowly whisk about ½ cup of the hot rice mixture from the baking dish into the egg/cream bowl. Then, slowly pour the entire egg mixture back into the baking dish, stirring constantly. This prevents the egg from scrambling.
· Stir in raisins now, if using.
· Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 30-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set around the edges but still has a slight, creamy wobble in the center. The total bake time is about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- Finish & Serve:
· Remove from the oven. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the surface.
· Let cool for at least 30 minutes to allow it to thicken further. It will be creamier and more scoopable once slightly warm or at room temperature.
· Serve in bowls with a dollop of whipped cream or a splash of cold milk to contrast the warmth.
Rice Type Guide:
· Best (Traditional): Medium or Short-Grain White Rice (like Arborio, sushi rice, or plain “white rice”). These have more starch and create a naturally creamy texture.
· Good: Long-Grain White Rice (like Jasmine or Basmati). Will be slightly less creamy but still delicious. Do not use instant or pre-cooked rice.
Pro-Tips for Perfection:
· Low & Slow: The low oven temperature is non-negotiable for creamy, not curdled, pudding.
· Stirring: Don’t skip stirring during the first bake. It ensures even cooking and creaminess.
· The Egg Tempering: This step is crucial for a smooth, custardy texture.
· Don’t Overbake: The pudding will continue to set as it cools. It’s done when it’s creamy-thick, not stiff.
· Skin Lovers: For a classic baked skin, do not stir during the final 15-20 minutes of baking.
Make-Ahead & Storage:
· Make Ahead: Can be made 1-2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Gently reheat in the microwave or a warm oven with a splash of milk.
· Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pudding will firm up when cold.
· Serve Cold: It’s also delicious served chilled straight from the fridge.
Variations:
· Orange-Spiced: Add the zest of one orange to the milk mixture.
· Cardamom & Rose: Substitute nutmeg with ¼ tsp ground cardamom. Top with chopped pistachios and a drop of rose water.
· Coconut: Substitute 1-2 cups of the milk with full-fat coconut milk.
· “Burnt” Sugar Top: For a crème brûlée effect, sprinkle the top with an even layer of sugar and caramelize with a kitchen torch before serving.
Enjoy this timeless, soul-warming dessert that makes any meal feel special.