Baked Rice Pudding with Caramelized Top 🍚🍯
This Baked Rice Pudding with a Caramelized Top is a classic comfort dessert with a golden, slightly crisp surface and a creamy, luscious interior. Perfect for cozy evenings, special occasions, or anytime you crave something sweet and comforting.
Its silky texture and caramelized top make it feel like a fancy dessert, but it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup short-grain rice (like Arborio) 🍚
- 4 cups whole milk 🥛
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup sugar (divided)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- ½ tsp salt 🧂
- Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling 🌿
Optional for Caramelized Top:
- Extra sugar (2–3 tbsp) for sprinkling and torching
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
- Rinse rice under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, 2 cups milk, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat until rice is soft and milk is mostly absorbed (~15–20 minutes), stirring occasionally.
2. Prepare the Custard
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, remaining 2 cups milk, heavy cream, sugar (reserve a little for topping), and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Rice and Custard
- Stir the cooked rice into the custard mixture until smooth.
- Pour into a greased baking dish.
4. Bake
- Place the dish in a water bath (optional for extra creaminess).
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pudding is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
5. Caramelize the Top
- Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the baked pudding.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown, or broil briefly in the oven, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
- Serve warm or chilled.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Rice Pudding
- Short-grain rice gives a creamier texture
- Stir frequently while cooking the rice to prevent sticking
- Use a water bath for an ultra-smooth custard
- Don’t overbake; it continues to set as it cools
Serving Ideas
- Fresh berries on the side 🍓
- Drizzle with caramel or honey 🍯
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream 🍦
Final Thoughts 💛
This Baked Rice Pudding with Caramelized Top is comforting, elegant, and irresistibly creamy. It’s a dessert that makes any meal feel special — perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you simply need a sweet treat.
