Name: Creamy Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup short-grain rice (Use for creamy texture); 1 pinch salt (Balances sweetness); 1 cup whole milk (Substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free); 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (Essential for creaminess); 3 large eggs (Acts as a binding agent); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances flavor); 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon (Adjust to taste); 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg (Adjust to taste); 0.5 cup raisins or sultanas (Consider other dried fruits)

As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the warm scent of vanilla and spices floated through the air, instantly sending me back to my childhood. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding, a simple yet delectably creamy dessert that’s become a favorite in my home. This nostalgic treat is not only easy to whip up using pantry staples but also offers the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. The rich custard, lovingly enveloping tender grains of rice, creates a magical harmony that uplifts any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile enough for everyone—whether you’re using coconut milk for a dairy-free option or adding your favorite dried fruits like cranberries or dates. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a delightful surprise. Are you ready to indulge in this creamy hug of a dessert?

Why Is This Rice Pudding Irresistible?

Comforting nostalgia: This Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding brings back cherished memories, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Versatile delight: Easily customize the base with your choice of dried fruits or alternative milks, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Simple ingredients: Relying on pantry staples means you can whip this recipe up any time the craving strikes.
Effortless preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a show-stopping dessert without the fuss.
Crowd-pleasing flavor: The creamy custard combined with spices leads to pure indulgence—every spoonful feels like a warm hug!

For more comforting dishes, check out my Baked Feta Eggs or Salmon Avocado Rice.

Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding Ingredients

For the Rice Base

Rice – Use short-grain rice for an incredibly creamy texture that absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Salt – A pinch balances the dessert’s sweetness, enhancing all the flavors.

For the Custard Mixture

Whole Milk – This adds rich creaminess; substitute with coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free alternative.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – This ingredient sweetens the pudding while providing unmatched creaminess, making it essential for this condensed milk baked rice pudding!
Eggs – These act as the binding agent, creating a smooth and luscious custard.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor with a delightful warmth.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg – These spices add depth and warmth; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.

Optional Add-Ins

Raisins or Sultanas – These dried fruits offer natural sweetness and delightful texture; consider dried cranberries or chopped dates for a twist.

There you have it—simple yet vital ingredients that come together to create a warming and comforting dessert, perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy serving later. The warm, inviting aroma of the oven should fill your kitchen, signaling that a delightful dessert is on the way.

Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring 1½ cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of short-grain rice, cover the saucepan, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the rice absorbs all the water and is tender. Once done, drain any excess water and allow the rice to cool slightly while you prepare the custard.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of whole milk, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg to the mix, whisking until perfectly blended. In a separate bowl, lightly beat 3 eggs and then gradually whisk them into the milk mixture until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding
Spread the cooked rice evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle ½ cup of raisins or your preferred dried fruits evenly over the rice. Carefully pour the rich custard mixture over the layered rice, allowing it to soak through while gently stirring to incorporate everything together.

Step 5: Bake in a Water Bath
Place the baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water, creating a water bath that helps the pudding bake evenly. Slide the setup into the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Halfway through, give the pudding a gentle stir to ensure an even custard texture. The pudding is ready when it turns golden and the center jiggles slightly, but is mostly set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the dessert from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve warm, and if desired, sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon for added warmth and aroma, enhancing your homemade Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding experience.

Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this dish truly your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk for a delicious, creamy twist without dairy.
Fruit Swap: Replace raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fresh burst of flavor.
Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Flavor Booster: Add a splash of rum or almond extract to the custard mixture for an extra layer of depth.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger to bring in warm, exotic flavors that elevate your pudding.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich chocolate-infused version of this classic dessert.
Layered Delight: Consider layering with fresh fruits, like mangoes or berries, for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Salty-Sweet Contrast: A sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving enhances the sweetness and adds a delightful contrast.

For more delicious ideas, check out my Shrimp Rice Bowls for easy meal prep or enjoy my comforting Baked Feta Eggs.

Expert Tips for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding

Choose the Right Rice: Short-grain rice works best for achieving that creamy texture. Avoid long-grain rice, as it can lead to a drier pudding.
Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to a tough custard. The pudding should jiggle slightly in the center when you take it out—perfect for a creamy consistency.
Use a Water Bath: Baking in a water bath ensures even cooking and prevents curdling. It locks in moisture for that beautifully smooth final result.
Stir Gently: When mixing in the custard, be gentle to avoid breaking apart the rice. You want the grains to remain whole for a delightful texture.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to try different dried fruits or spices. This Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding is versatile, and variations can make each batch uniquely delicious!

What to Serve with Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding

Pairing this delightful dessert with complementary dishes can elevate your dining experience and create a full, comforting meal that your loved ones will crave.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture and flavor of mashed potatoes serve as a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the rice pudding.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: These tender, sweet apples echo the warm spices in the pudding and offer a fresh, fruity contrast. The warmth of the spices harmonizes beautifully with your dessert.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness and slight crunch of carrots delightfully balance the indulgent creaminess of the pudding, adding a vibrant splash of color to your plate.
Warm Bread Pudding: For double the comfort, serve a slice of warm bread pudding. The similar textures create a delightful theme of homey desserts that everyone will enjoy.
Toasted Almonds: Sprinkling almonds over the baked rice pudding adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor, enhancing the comforting experience with a touch of nuttiness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly over warm rice pudding, offering a luxurious twist that turns your dessert into a decadent masterpiece.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like strawberries or blueberries contrast the creamy richness, adding brightness to your plate while keeping it light and refreshing.
Mint Tea: Sipping on mint tea as you enjoy the richness of the rice pudding can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing herbal note to finish off your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the custard mixture (combining the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cook the rice and layer it in the baking dish with any dried fruits, storing it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the custard over the rice and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious results without any last-minute fuss, ensuring a delightful dessert is always at your fingertips!

Storage Tips for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding

Fridge: Store leftovers covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This creamy dessert tastes delightful when cooled and can be enjoyed chilled.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding in individual portions for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and then warm gently in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

Serving Suggestion: Consider serving chilled with fresh berries for a refreshing twist on this comforting Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding!

Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best creamy texture, opt for short-grain rice. This variety absorbs liquid beautifully, resulting in a richer pudding. Long-grain rice can lead to a drier outcome, which we definitely want to avoid in our delightful Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This creamy dessert remains delicious even when chilled, and you can enjoy it cold or gently reheated.

Can I freeze Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding?
Definitely! To freeze, slice the pudding into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It lasts up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.

What can I do if my rice pudding isn’t setting properly?
If your pudding isn’t setting, it could be due to insufficient baking time or the eggs not being thoroughly whisked into the mixture. Ensure your custard is well-mixed and keep an eye on the baking time. The pudding should jiggle slightly in the center but look mostly set.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! The recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but if you or anyone you’re serving has dairy allergies, consider substituting whole milk with coconut milk. This not only works wonderfully in terms of flavor but keeps the pudding rich and creamy without dairy. Always check for any specific fruit add-ins or spices that may pose an allergy risk as well.

Can I use different fruits in this pudding?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates instead of raisins or sultanas. This adds delightful variations in flavor and texture to your Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding, ensuring every bite is uniquely delicious!