Oh, my friend, this Baked Rice Pudding is going to become your new comfort food obsession. Picture this: creamy, rich rice nestled in a warm custard-like filling, all beautifully browned on top with a sweet, slightly caramelized finish. And the smell? It’s the kind that wraps you up in a hug. Seriously, this dish is what dreams are made of.

Trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s simple but feels so indulgent—perfect for when you’re craving something cozy, whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or that 2 p.m. snack. Get ready for the most soothing, satisfying bite that will take you straight to your happy place.

Why You’ll Love Baked Rice Pudding

This recipe isn’t just about making a delicious dessert—it’s about creating an experience. Whether you’re making it to spoil yourself, share with friends, or bring something comforting to the table, this dish is always a winner. Here’s why it’s such a crowd-pleaser:

Versatile: Perfect for a cozy family night or a fun potluck gathering. Imagine serving it at your next dinner party, and seeing your guests’ faces light up when they take the first bite. It’s like serving nostalgia in a bowl.

Budget-Friendly: You probably have most of these ingredients already in your pantry, which is perfect if you’re looking to create something hearty and satisfying without splurging.

Quick and Easy: This isn’t a finicky, fussy recipe. It’s straightforward, and even if you’re a beginner, you can feel confident that this will turn out beautifully.

Customizable: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to spice it up, or a splash of vanilla for extra depth. Want to go next level? Top it with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey before serving.

Crowd-Pleasing: Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of rice pudding? It’s sweet, creamy, and guaranteed to make everyone around the table smile.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of rice pudding—it’s made with basic ingredients, but they come together in the most magical way. Let’s break it down:

Rice: The unsung hero. Long-grain white rice is the foundation, cooking up tender and absorbing all that creamy, dreamy goodness.

Milk: Full-fat milk will give you that luscious, velvety texture that makes every spoonful feel indulgent.

Eggs: These provide structure and help create that smooth, custard-like filling. They’re the secret ingredient to that perfectly balanced texture.

Sugar: The sweet touch that makes this dessert irresistible. It adds just enough sweetness to complement the richness of the milk and eggs.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla takes this dessert from “okay” to “wow.” It adds that warm, comforting flavor that everyone loves.

Salt: A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness and really enhances the flavors in the dish. Don’t skip this one!

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is included in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s get to the fun part—making this rice pudding!

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps create that golden-brown top and gives the pudding a lovely, baked texture.

Prepare the Rice:

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. It’s usually just a matter of boiling in water until tender. This is the base of your pudding, so make sure it’s nice and soft before moving on to the next step.

Combine the Ingredients:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Once smooth, stir in the cooked rice. The rice will absorb the liquid, and the pudding will take shape.

Assemble the Dish:

Pour the rice mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so the pudding cooks uniformly.

Bake to Perfection:

Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Halfway through, give it a stir to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a golden, bubbly top, and the pudding should set in the middle.

Finishing Touches:

Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes to settle and firm up. You can serve it warm or chilled—whichever you prefer! A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top is the perfect finishing touch.

Serve and Enjoy:

Scoop up a big spoonful and dive right in! This rice pudding pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 1 serving
Calories per serving: 180

How to Serve Baked Rice Pudding

This dish is versatile enough to enjoy on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even more memorable:

Fresh Fruit: Serve with a handful of berries, banana slices, or even some poached pears. The sweetness of the fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pudding.

Whipped Cream: If you want to take it up a notch, top your rice pudding with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. Pure bliss.

Nuts: Add some crunch with slivered almonds, crushed pistachios, or even toasted coconut on top. It’s the perfect contrast to the pudding’s softness.

Cinnamon or Nutmeg: A sprinkle of either of these spices takes the flavor to the next level, adding that warm, cozy feel to every bite.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tricks to help you make the most of your rice pudding:

Make It Ahead: This is an ideal dish to prep in advance. It stores well in the fridge for a few days, and in fact, the flavors get even better after resting overnight.

Keep It Creamy: If your pudding looks a bit dry after baking, simply stir in a little extra milk or cream to loosen it up.

Customize the Flavor: Want a more tropical twist? Try adding a splash of coconut milk for richness or a handful of shredded coconut for extra texture.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great the next day, chilled or reheated.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This recipe actually gets better with time. Make it the day before and store it in the fridge for a delightful, chilled treat.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze rice pudding?
A3: Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A4: To reheat, simply microwave it in 30-second intervals, or warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat. You may need to add a little milk to smooth it out.

Q5: Can I add dried fruit?
A5: Yes! Raisins or sultanas work wonderfully in this pudding. Just stir them in before baking.

Q6: Can I use brown rice instead of white?
A6: You can, but brown rice will take longer to cook and will give the pudding a chewier texture. White rice is preferred for its softer, creamier result.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: Yes, this rice pudding is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-free diets.

Q8: Can I use non-dairy milk?
A8: Absolutely! Try coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Q9: How do I know when the pudding is done?
A9: The top should be golden brown, and the pudding should be set in the middle, but still a little wobbly. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Definitely! Just make sure you use a larger baking dish, and keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a little longer.

Conclusion

This Baked Rice Pudding is everything you want in a comfort dessert—creamy, dreamy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell like home. Don’t wait—give this a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked. Happy baking!