The warm aroma of vanilla and cinnamon fills the kitchen, inviting me back to my childhood days of cozy family gatherings. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk, a delightful dessert that’s the essence of comfort food. This easy baked pudding promises a rich, velvety texture, making it the perfect treat whether you serve it warm or chilled. Not only is it irresistibly satisfying, but it’s also gluten-free and a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a luscious finale for any meal. So, are you ready to whip up a dessert that will wrap you in nostalgia with each spoonful? Let’s dive into this creamy delight!

Why is This Rice Pudding Irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: This Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk is like a warm hug for your tastebuds, rich and cozy enough to brighten any day.

Easy to Make: No culinary skills required! Just simple steps to create a creamy masterpiece, making it perfect for novice cooks and busy chefs alike.

Versatile Delight: Enjoy it warm or chilled, making it a year-round dessert for all occasions. You can even customize it with your favorite add-ins like raisins or coconut!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: It’s a favorite at family gatherings and celebrations, bringing smiles and nostalgia with each creamy spoonful.

Quick Prep and Bake: Bake it in just a little over an hour, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.

Elevate your dessert game and pair this pudding with a fresh fruit topping or enjoy it alongside a comforting cup of spiced tea. You can also explore other delicious options like our Pineapple Fried Rice for a complete meal experience!

Creamy Rice Pudding Ingredients

• For the Pudding Base

White Rice – 1/2 cup (100g); go for short-grain or Arborio for that luscious creamy texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – 1 can (14 oz/396g); this is the secret to the pudding’s irresistible richness and sweetness!
Whole Milk – 3 cups (720ml); essential for ensuring maximum creaminess throughout.
Granulated Sugar – 1/4 cup (50g); feel free to adjust this if you prefer a less sweet treat.
Large Eggs – 2; these are the magic binders that create your custard-like consistency.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; a splash adds delightful depth and warmth.
Ground Cinnamon – 1/4 teaspoon; this gives the pudding a subtle but necessary aromatic spice.
Salt – A pinch; a little goes a long way to enhance overall flavor.

• For Baking

Butter – For greasing the baking dish; this prevents your delicious pudding from sticking.

Enjoy making this Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk, serving it warm or chilled, and watch it become the star of your dessert table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk

Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by combining 1/2 cup of rinsed white rice with 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the baking dish. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with a generous layer of butter to ensure that your creamy rice pudding with condensed milk doesn’t stick. This vital step will help achieve a perfect slice once baked.

Step 3: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together one can of sweetened condensed milk, 3 cups of whole milk, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 large eggs. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is smooth and well-combined, ensuring a deliciously rich custard base for your pudding.

Step 4: Combine
Carefully stir the cooked rice into the custard mixture, ensuring that each grain is evenly coated with the creamy goodness. Use a spatula to mix gently but thoroughly; you want to combine them well without mashing the rice. This step is crucial for achieving that iconic creamy rice pudding with condensed milk texture.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the rice and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the creamy rice pudding from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the pudding to set and thicken beautifully. Serve warm, or chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours if you prefer it cold; both options are absolutely delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Rice Pudding

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps your creamy rice pudding with condensed milk fresh and ready for a sweet treat.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pudding in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Make-Ahead: Consider making this pudding ahead of time; the flavors deepen and improve after chilling, making it an ideal dessert to prepare for gatherings.

Expert Tips for Creamy Rice Pudding

Choose the Right Rice: Use short-grain rice like Arborio for the best creamy texture. Avoid long-grain varieties, which can make the pudding watery.
Pre-Cook the Rice: Ensure the rice is cooked until tender before mixing it with the custard. This prevents any chewy or hard bits in your creamy rice pudding with condensed milk.
Cover While Baking: Don’t skip covering the dish with foil in the first half of baking! This keeps moisture in and prevents your pudding from drying out.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the pudding to rest for 15 minutes after baking. This cooling period helps thicken the pudding to a perfect custard-like consistency.
Customize Wisely: Get creative with flavors by adding citrus zest or spices; however, avoid overloading with add-ins—thread carefully to retain the pudding’s creamy essence.
Reheating Tip: If serving later, gently reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to regain that delightful creaminess before serving.

What to Serve with Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk

Indulging in rich, creamy rice pudding is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Fresh Berries: Their natural sweetness and tartness offer a refreshing contrast to the pudding’s creaminess, enhancing every bite.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that beautifully balances the density of the pudding.
Spiced Tea: The warmth and spices of chai or cinnamon tea complement the cinnamon notes in the pudding, perfect for cozy evenings.
Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut for a delightful crunch and tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the pudding.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel adds a rich sweetness that harmonizes with the pudding and makes every mouthful decadent.
Chocolate Shavings: Lightly sprinkled chocolate shavings introduce a rich, velvety note that plays nicely with the pudding’s flavors.
Mixed Nuts: A handful of chopped walnuts or almonds offers crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth rice pudding.
Cinnamon Sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar enhances the existing spice notes while adding a sweet touch enjoyed with each spoonful.
Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote with berries or stone fruits brings vibrant flavors and juicy freshness, balancing the pudding’s richness beautifully.
Coffee: A cup of rich, brewed coffee is the perfect counterpart, awakening your senses and providing a pleasant contrast to the sweetness.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare the pudding mixture (cooked rice combined with the custard) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. This helps develop the flavors and ensures every spoonful is just as delicious! When you’re ready to bake, pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and follow the baking instructions. To maintain the creamy texture, cover the dish with foil while baking to prevent drying out. After a short resting period of about 15 minutes, enjoy your comforting dessert warm or chilled!

Creamy Rice Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to enhance and personalize your Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk with these delightful variations!

Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist in flavor. It brightens the dish beautifully!
Tropical Coconut: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut before baking to transport your taste buds to a warm island, giving it a lovely chewy texture.
Add Some Fruit: Mix in 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dried apricots for a burst of sweetness. They will plump up during baking, adding delicious bites throughout.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle 1/3 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top before baking for texture and a delightful crunch contrast to the creamy pudding.
Spiced Variation: Swap ground cinnamon for 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg for a warm spice profile that perfectly complements the pudding’s richness.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the custard mixture before baking for a dessert that satisfies any chocolate craving.
Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative for a creamy, vegan-friendly version.
Maple Twist: Substitute sugar with maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness that pairs exceptionally well with the creamy base.

Feel inspired to let your creativity flow! For more delicious ideas, pair this pudding with a refreshing fruit salad or enjoy it alongside a delightful Broccoli Chicken Penne for a wonderful meal experience.

Creamy Baked Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for this pudding?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using short-grain rice, like Arborio. This variety contains more starch, which contributes to the creamy texture essential for Creamy Rice Pudding With Condensed Milk. Avoid long-grain rice as it can yield a less creamy result.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 4 days. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any strange odors or flavors from the fridge!

Can I freeze creamy rice pudding?
Yes, you can freeze this pudding! Cool it completely, then spoon it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

How do I avoid my pudding becoming too watery?
To ensure your pudding is perfectly creamy, make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the custard mixture. Also, be sure to cover your baking dish with foil during the first half of baking to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. It’s a key step to keeping your pudding velvety!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, this pudding contains dairy and eggs. If you or your loved ones have allergies, consider substituting dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut milk and egg replacements, to make a delicious, allergy-friendly version. However, keep in mind that this may alter the final texture and flavor. Always consult with a medical professional for specific dietary needs!

How long does it usually take to bake?
The total baking time is about 1 hour. You’ll bake it covered with foil for the first 45 minutes, then remove the foil to bake for an additional 15 minutes until it has a lovely golden color on top. Patience here is key for that perfect creamy consistency!