As I mixed the ingredients for this dish, a wave of nostalgia enveloped me, transporting me to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The rich aroma of luscious Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding was always my favorite, filling our home with warmth and comfort. This delightful dessert is not just creamy and indulgent; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests. With sweetened condensed milk and a touch of spice, each spoonful offers a taste of home that everyone can appreciate. Whether served warm or chilled, this pudding is a versatile crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or cozy evenings in. Are you ready to relish a taste of comfort? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Rice Pudding Special?
Nostalgic, Comforting Flavor: Each bite evokes memories of cozy kitchen moments, filling you with warmth.
Simplicity at Its Finest: Whipped up effortlessly, this dessert requires minimal fuss for maximum flavor.
Versatile Delicacy: Serve it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chilled with fresh berries, adapting to any occasion.
Quick to Prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights—this indulgence can be made and enjoyed in no time!
Wholesome Ingredients: Utilizing pantry staples, it’s a treat you can feel good about, fitting nicely into family meals or gatherings. For another comforting dish, try my Autumn Wild Rice soup for a complete cozy experience!
Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this creamy dessert!
For the Pudding Base
- Short-Grain Rice – Provides the creamy texture essential for rice pudding; consider using arborio rice for a richer experience.
- Whole Milk – Adds richness and body to the custard; coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free twist.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Infuses significant sweetness and creaminess, making extra sugar unnecessary.
- Eggs – Function as a binding agent for that perfect custard-like texture; just be sure they’re lightly beaten.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract to elevate this pudding.
For the Flavoring
- Ground Cinnamon – Imparts warmth and lovely spice; adjust to your palate, and add nutmeg for an extra flavor dimension if desired.
- Salt – Balances all the sweetness—just a small pinch will do!
Optional Add-ins
- Raisins or Sultanas – Introduce delightful texture and natural sweetness; swap them out for dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fun twist.
This Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding is sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or cozy night in!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the pudding from sticking and allow for easy serving later. Set the dish aside as you prepare the pudding mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring 1½ cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add ¾ cup of short-grain or arborio rice, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is mostly absorbed. Drain any excess liquid and let the rice cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of whole milk, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and nutmeg to taste. Whisk the mixture until it’s well blended and smooth. In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs lightly, then gradually add them to the milk mixture, whisking continuously to ensure everything is combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Pudding
Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. If you’re using raisins or sultanas, sprinkle them evenly over the rice for added sweetness and texture. Gently pour the custard mixture over the rice, using a spatula to lightly stir and combine everything together, ensuring the rice is well coated.
Step 5: Create the Water Bath
To maintain the creamy texture of your Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding, place the baking dish inside a larger pan. Carefully fill the outer pan with hot water, being sure not to let any water splash into the pudding. The water bath will help cook the pudding evenly and prevent it from cracking in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Place the entire setup in your preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. Halfway through, gently stir the pudding to help distribute the rice evenly in the custard. The pudding is done when the top is golden brown and the center remains slightly jiggy; this indicates a perfectly set custard.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10–15 minutes. This waiting time helps the pudding set more firmly. Serve your delicious Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding warm, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat later. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding Variations
Embrace your creativity and elevate your dessert with these delicious twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk with coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor. This not only makes it dairy-free but also imparts a lovely creaminess that complements the pudding beautifully.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of toasted chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, for an added crunch and depth of flavor. This delightful texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice.
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Fruit-Infused: Mix in a cup of fresh blueberries or sliced bananas before pouring the custard over, adding a burst of natural sweetness. Each bite will be a lovely surprise of fruity goodness!
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Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the custard mixture for a bright, refreshing flavor. The subtle citrus notes balance the sweetness and elevate this dish to new heights.
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Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Incorporate ½ cup of chocolate chips into the rice before baking for an indulgent chocolate rice pudding. The melted chocolate creates gooey pockets of deliciousness throughout.
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Spiced Up: Boost the warm spices by adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the custard. It gives an exotic twist to your classic pudding, turning it into a unique experience that comforts the soul.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pudding just before serving. The luscious sweetness will add another layer of indulgence that your family guests will surely love.
For another delightful dessert idea, don’t miss my Cheesecake Stuffed Baked apples, which offer a fun and fruity twist on traditional favorites!
What to Serve with Creamy Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding?
Indulging in this delightful dessert is just the beginning of a comforting meal experience. Let’s explore some perfect pairings to elevate your dining adventure!
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Cinnamon Sugar Toast: A crispy, sweet toast topped with cinnamon sugar balances the creamy pudding beautifully. The crunchiness contrasts delightfully with the soft texture of the rice pudding.
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Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries adds vibrant color and a burst of freshness. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the pudding, creating a harmonic flavor experience.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a luscious topping that enhances each spoonful. It adds a touch of elegance, turning a simple dessert into a spectacular treat.
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Chai Tea: The warm, spiced flavors of chai tea create a cozy atmosphere around the pudding. Sip it slowly as you relish the comforting dessert, making every bite even more satisfying.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the pudding adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness. The sticky texture harmonizes perfectly with the creamy custard.
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Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings offers a rich, decadent finish. This sophisticated touch elevates your rice pudding to another level, perfect for special occasions.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti brings a delightful texture contrast and nutty flavor. Perfect for dipping into the pudding, it enhances the eating experience while providing a satisfying crunch.
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Grilled Peaches: Grilled peaches bring a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy pudding. Their juicy essence adds a summer feel, transforming your dessert into a wholesome delight.
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Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the pudding. It cleanses the palate, making each bite of the creamy dessert feel light and airy.
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Chocolate Ice Cream: For the ultimate indulgence, serve a scoop of chocolate ice cream alongside. The cold, creamy treat brings another layer of texture and flavor, creating a dreamy dessert duo.
Storage Tips for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain the creamy texture and flavors of the condensed milk baked rice pudding.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the pudding in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in the microwave or a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
Serving Versatility: Whether enjoyed warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chilled with fresh fruit, the pudding remains a delightful treat that fits any mood.
Expert Tips for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
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Choose the Right Rice: Opt for short-grain rice, as it provides a creamier texture essential for the condensed milk baked rice pudding; arborio rice works beautifully too.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; a gentle jiggle in the center indicates it’s perfectly set. Overbaking can lead to a dry pudding.
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Stir Halfway Through: Stirring midway helps ensure an even distribution of rice in the custard, creating a delightful eating experience throughout.
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Utilize a Water Bath: A water bath prevents cracking and maintains the creamy consistency of the custard, so don’t skip this step for the best results.
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Store Wisely: Keep leftover pudding covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding ahead of time is a great way to simplify your meal planning! You can cook the rice and prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the rice and allow it to cool before combining it with the custard ingredients. Store them separately in the refrigerator, ensuring airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, combine the rice and custard mixture in your greased baking dish and follow the original baking instructions, adding an extra few minutes to ensure it’s heated through. This way, you will enjoy all the creamy goodness with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for this pudding?
I absolutely recommend using short-grain rice, such as arborio, because it provides that rich, creamy texture that’s essential for a perfect Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding. Unlike long-grain rice, which can become dry and fluffy, short-grain rice releases starch during cooking, creating a luscious custard-like consistency.
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, simply cover the pudding and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often find that letting it sit for a while allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it can be enjoyed either chilled or warmed up. Just give it a gentle reheat, and possibly add a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture!
Can I freeze this rice pudding?
Yes, you can freeze your Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding! First, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk if it feels too thick.
How do I prevent the pudding from cracking while baking?
To keep your pudding creamy and crack-free, the water bath method is essential! Place the baking dish with the pudding inside a larger dish filled with hot water, ensuring no water splashes into the pudding. This gentle cooking method helps maintain an even temperature and creates moisture, ensuring a luscious texture without cracks forming on the surface.
Can I modify the ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version. If allergies are a concern, simply omit the raisins or replace them with dried cranberries or chopped dates. Additionally, you can enjoy the pudding plain or even add spices like nutmeg or a dash of rum to customize the flavor to your liking.
Creamy Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding to Savor at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1½ cups of water to a boil, then add ¾ cup of short-grain or arborio rice. Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of whole milk, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and nutmeg to taste. In a separate bowl, lightly beat 2 eggs and gradually add to the milk mixture.
- Spread the cooked rice in the greased baking dish, sprinkle with raisins, and pour the custard mixture over it, stirring lightly to combine.
- Place the baking dish in a larger pan and fill the outer pan with hot water for a water bath, ensuring no water enters the pudding.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool for 10-15 minutes before serving warm or chill in the refrigerator.
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