Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with a Golden Crust is a classic comfort-food dessert that delivers warm, nostalgic flavor in every spoonful. This homemade version stands out for its rich texture, slow-baked creaminess, and perfectly caramelized top layer. Whether served warm or chilled, this pudding offers a delightful balance of sweetness and subtle vanilla notes. It’s an ideal dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or simple moments when you want something cozy and satisfying.
This recipe is loved for its simplicity, pantry-friendly ingredients, and timeless appeal. Soft, tender rice blends with milk, sugar, vanilla, and eggs to create a creamy base, while the slow oven baking forms a naturally golden, slightly crisp top that adds depth and texture. The result is a rich, custard-like dessert that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for anyone craving an easy yet impressive sweet dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked medium-grain or short-grain rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Optional: ground nutmeg, cinnamon, or shredded coconut for added flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a baking dish or use a set of small ramekins for individual servings.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until just tender. Do not overcook; the grains should remain slightly firm since they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Prepare the custard base. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Add the cooked rice to the custard mixture, stirring gently to distribute the grains evenly without breaking them.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top for extra richness and browning.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden and the pudding is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. The edges should be firm, and the top should develop a natural caramelized crust.
- Cool slightly before serving. The pudding will thicken as it cools. Serve warm for the creamiest texture or chill for a firmer dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This baked rice pudding pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings:
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
- A drizzle of honey or caramel
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas
- Toasted coconut for extra crunch
- Whipped cream for a lighter finish
Enjoy it at breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or as a satisfying dessert after dinner.
Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or enjoy chilled straight from the fridge. The caramelized top may soften over time, but the flavor and creaminess remain excellent.