Rice Pudding Recipe (Oven Baked)
Rice pudding is a classic comfort dessert that can be served warm or cold. It’s creamy, subtly sweet, and perfectly spiced, making it ideal for any occasion. Baking rice pudding in the oven offers a hands-off cooking method that ensures a rich and silky texture every time. Whether you’re new to this dessert or a seasoned cook, this recipe is perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth!
1. Introduction
Looking for a nostalgic dessert? Try oven-baked rice pudding. It’s easy to make and fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma.
2. Why Bake Rice Pudding in the Oven?
Baking rice pudding in the oven gives it a wonderfully smooth and creamy texture. Unlike stove-top versions where you have to stand and stir, the oven method allows the rice to cook slowly and evenly in the milk, absorbing all the flavors. Plus, you get that beautiful golden layer on top that’s just irresistible!
3. Ingredients for Oven-Baked Rice Pudding
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup of uncooked white rice (preferably short-grain or Arborio rice)
- 4 cups of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)
These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, slightly sweet dessert that can be enjoyed by the whole family
4. Serving Size
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on portion size. It’s perfect for a small gathering or as a dessert for the family after dinner.
5. Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
The beauty of this recipe is that it requires minimal hands-on time. You can prepare everything in just 10 minutes, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen.
6. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter. This helps prevent the pudding from sticking and adds a nice buttery flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the uncooked rice and raisins, if using.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dot the top with small pieces of butter. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 90 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure the rice doesn’t clump together.
Step 5: Let it Set
After 90 minutes, the rice should be soft and the pudding should have a creamy texture. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes to firm up slightly before serving.
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7. Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding
- Use Short-Grain Rice: Short-grain or Arborio rice is ideal for rice pudding because it releases more starch, resulting in a creamier texture.
- Stir Occasionally: Stirring the pudding during baking ensures that the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t form clumps.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the pudding during the final 15 minutes of cooking. You want the pudding to be creamy, not dry.
8. Variations and Add-ins
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun add-ins:
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Replace half the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Rice Pudding: Add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves for a warm, spiced version.
- Chocolate Rice Pudding: Stir in some chocolate chips during the last 10 minutes of baking for a chocolaty treat.
9. How to Store Leftover Rice Pudding
Store any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the pudding tightly to prevent it from drying out.
10. Reheating Rice Pudding
To reheat, simply place the rice pudding in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.
11. Can You Freeze Rice Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze rice pudding! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired. The texture may change slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
12. Serving Suggestions
Rice pudding is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few toppings:
- Fresh fruit like berries or bananas
- A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
- A sprinkle of chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
13. Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
14. FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice for this recipe?
Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cook time and may result in a slightly different texture. It will still taste delicious, but expect a bit more chewiness compared to white rice.
2. Can I make rice pudding without sugar?
You can use alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute. Just note that the flavor might change slightly depending on the sweetener you choose.
3. Is it necessary to stir the pudding during baking?
Yes, stirring ensures the rice cooks evenly and prevents it from clumping together.
4. Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, almond milk or any other plant-based milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly less creamy.
5. How do I prevent rice pudding from becoming too thick?
If your rice pudding becomes too thick, stir in a little extra milk to loosen it up and restore its creamy consistency.
