Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

 Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon – A Classic Comfort Dessert

Few desserts evoke the warmth and nostalgia of creamy baked rice pudding with cinnamon. This timeless treat blends silky custard with tender grains of rice, all infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or quiet evenings at home, this pudding delivers rich flavor and creamy comfort in every spoonful.

Whether served warm out of the oven or chilled for a refreshing treat, this versatile dessert appeals to all ages. Its smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it an irresistible addition to any table. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience as it bakes to perfection.

If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both easy to prepare and elegantly delicious, this baked rice pudding recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

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Ingredients – What You’ll Need and Why

Base Ingredients for Creamy Texture:

1 cup uncooked white rice – Medium-grain rice works best for a creamy consistency without becoming mushy. Short-grain rice is also a good option for extra creaminess.

4 cups whole milk – Provides richness and smoothness while helping the pudding set during baking.

1 cup heavy cream – Adds luxurious richness and enhances the velvety texture of the custard.

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:

3/4 cup granulated sugar – Balances the flavors with the perfect level of sweetness without overpowering the spices.

2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

Binding Ingredients for Custard-Like Texture:

3 large eggs – Essential for creating the custard base, binding the ingredients, and adding richness.

Spices and Extras:

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The star spice that gives this dessert its signature warm flavor.

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) – Provides a hint of spice that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.

1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.

1/2 cup raisins (optional) – Adds bursts of natural sweetness and chewy texture for extra depth.

To Finish:

Butter or non-stick spray – For greasing the baking dish, ensuring easy serving.

Extra cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish – A light sprinkle for an elegant presentation.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Rice Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for a smooth texture.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside.

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Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

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Step 3: Mix the Custard Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.

2. Stir in the cooked rice and raisins (if using), ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

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Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.

2. Place the dish in a larger baking pan and add hot water to the outer pan, creating a water bath. This helps prevent the pudding from cracking and keeps the custard silky smooth.

3. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the pudding is set but slightly jiggly in the center.

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Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

2. Sprinkle extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top for garnish.

3. Serve warm for a cozy dessert or chill for at least 2 hours for a refreshing treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it warm or cold, making it ideal for any season.

Comforting and Nostalgic – Reminiscent of childhood favorites and family traditions.

Easy to Make – Uses simple pantry staples yet delivers a luxurious result.

Customizable – Add extras like raisins, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a personal twist.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding

Choose the Right Rice: Use medium-grain or Arborio rice for a creamy texture that won’t turn mushy. Avoid long-grain rice, which can be too firm.

Don’t Skip the Water Bath: This method prevents the pudding from drying out and ensures an even, custard-like consistency.

Mix Thoroughly: Stir the custard base well to evenly distribute the spices and flavors throughout the pudding.

Let It Rest: Cooling the pudding allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.

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Serving Suggestions

With Whipped Cream: Top each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added indulgence.

Fruit Compote: Serve alongside stewed berries or a caramelized apple topping for a fruity contrast.

Ice Cream Pairing: Enjoy warm pudding with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent treat.

Hot Coffee or Tea: Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or chai latte for a comforting dessert experience.

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Conclusion – A Classic Dessert Worth Savoring

This creamy baked rice pudding with cinnamon is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, comforting flavors and easy-to-make recipes. Its silky custard texture, warm spices, and versatile serving options make it perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.

With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, this recipe delivers irresistible flavor that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Whether you serve it warm or chille

d, this dessert will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Try this recipe today and discover why baked rice pudding remains a timeless classic loved by generations!