Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this oven-baked rice pudding recipe! Forget the stovetop fuss; this method delivers a creamy, dreamy pudding with a perfectly set texture every time. It's the perfect ending to a busy day, a delightful treat for a special occasion, or a simple yet impressive homemade dessert to share with loved ones. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, especially quick dinner ideas that won’t take up too much time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice (or other short-grain rice)
- 4 cups whole milk (or a combination of milk and cream for extra richness)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans), or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent a gummy texture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, combine the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. If using raisins or nuts, add them now.
Step 3: Bake the Pudding
Pour the rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish or individual ramekins. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened. Check the pudding after an hour; if it's still quite liquid, continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, checking frequently.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Remove the foil and let the rice pudding cool slightly before serving. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Tips for the Best Rice Pudding:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked rice pudding can become gummy. Start checking for doneness around the 1-hour mark.
- Use good quality milk: The richness of the milk significantly impacts the flavor of the pudding. Whole milk is recommended, but you can use a combination of milk and cream for an even richer result.
- Get creative with toppings: A sprinkle of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey can elevate this simple dessert to the next level.
Variations:
- Chocolate Rice Pudding: Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture for a decadent chocolate twist.
- Spiced Rice Pudding: Experiment with different spices like cardamom, cloves, or ginger for unique flavor profiles.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Substitute coconut milk for some or all of the dairy milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This oven-baked rice pudding is a delicious and satisfying dessert that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, customizable to your liking, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!