Indulge in the timeless delight of creamy baked rice pudding with cinnamon, a dessert that combines the nostalgic charm of traditional recipes with a luxurious, velvety texture. Perfectly spiced with warm cinnamon and a hint of vanilla, this dessert is an irresistible treat for all occasions. Whether served warm or chilled, this creamy creation promises to delight your taste buds and comfort your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of short-grain rice (such as Arborio or sushi rice)
- 4 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened (for greasing)
- Additional ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and lightly grease a deep baking dish with unsalted butter to prevent sticking.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and ensures the pudding doesn’t become too gummy.
- In a large saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. If desired, add nutmeg for a hint of extra warmth.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil it.
- Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and cook the rice uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, or until the rice starts to soften and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Gradually stir in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is well incorporated.
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a light layer of ground cinnamon over the top for an aromatic and visually appealing finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top has a golden hue. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve warm for a comforting dessert or refrigerate for a few hours to enjoy it chilled. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
This creamy baked rice pudding with cinnamon is the perfect marriage of flavors and textures, offering a soothing sweetness and a gentle spice in every bite. It’s a dessert that resonates with family gatherings, cozy evenings, and festive celebrations, making it an all-time favorite for all ages.