This recipe brings a comforting classic into your kitchen with a touch of elegance. Imagine the aroma of warm cinnamon and creamy rice filling your home, promising a dessert that is both satisfying and simple to create. This rice pudding is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a heartwarming experience that evokes memories of cozy evenings and homemade goodness. Perfect for a chilly night or a delightful ending to any meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding stands out for its incredibly rich and smooth texture. The combination of milk, cream, and just the right amount of cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and irresistible. What makes this recipe truly special is its ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make. The sultanas (or raisins) add a delightful burst of sweetness and chewiness, complementing the creamy rice beautifully. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a hassle-free way to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a versatile dessert that can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
Cups Metric
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing
- 4 cups milk (full or reduced fat, Note 1)
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup medium grain white rice, uncooked – definitely the best for rice pudding (Note 2)
- 1/2 cup sultanas or raisins (Note 3)
- 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cream, thickened/heavy (or bit of butter)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare. Start by preheating your oven to 180°C/350°F. This ensures that the pudding cooks evenly and develops the perfect creamy texture. While the oven is heating, grease a 10-cup or larger casserole dish with unsalted butter. This step is crucial to prevent the rice pudding from sticking to the bottom of the dish, making it easier to serve and clean up later.
Step 2: Combine the Liquids. In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of milk (full or reduced fat), 1/3 cup of white sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar completely. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this can cause the milk to split and ruin the creamy consistency of the pudding. The surface should be foamy, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
Step 3: Mix and Bake. In the buttered casserole dish, combine 3/4 cup of medium-grain white rice (uncooked), 1/2 cup of sultanas or raisins, and 3/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour the warm milk mixture over the rice and sultanas. Give it a brief stir to ensure the rice is evenly distributed. Cover the dish with a lid or foil to trap the moisture and prevent the top from drying out. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
Step 4: Stir and Cream. After 1 hour, remove the dish from the oven and carefully stir the rice pudding every 20 minutes to break up the rice that starts to set on the base. This ensures a creamy consistency throughout.
Step 5: Add Cream and Finish. After the first hour of baking, remove the dish from the oven and add 1/2 cup of thickened or heavy cream. Gently stir the cream into the rice pudding. It might look a bit watery at first, but don’t worry – the liquid will evaporate quickly. If you prefer an extra creamy texture, you can add a bit more cream or a knob of butter at this stage. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pudding is thick and creamy.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm and Cozy: Serve the rice pudding warm, straight from the oven, for a comforting dessert on a chilly evening.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the warm pudding perfectly.
- Fruit Compote: Add a spoonful of your favorite fruit compote, such as apple or berry, for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Sprinkle of Cinnamon: Dust a little extra cinnamon on top for added warmth and aroma.
- Chilled Delight: Serve the rice pudding chilled for a refreshing dessert on a hot day.
Tips:
- Rice Choice: Medium-grain white rice is the best choice for rice pudding because it releases starch as it cooks, creating a creamy texture. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it will not produce the same result.
- Milk Options: Full-fat milk will result in a richer, creamier pudding, but reduced-fat milk can also be used for a slightly lighter version.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, add a bit more sugar. If you like it less sweet, reduce the amount slightly.
- Spice Variation: Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to add a unique flavor to the pudding.
- Storage: Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 350
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 100mg
Conclusion:
This Heavenly Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients and classic flavors. With its creamy texture, warm cinnamon spice, and comforting aroma, it’s a dessert that will delight your senses and warm your heart. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy treat or a memorable dessert to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to deliver. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade rice pudding. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of rice?
- While medium-grain white rice is recommended for its creamy texture, you can experiment with other types of rice. Arborio rice, commonly used for risotto, can also work well. However, avoid using long-grain rice, as it will not produce the same creamy result.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives. Almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk can be used in place of dairy milk. For the cream, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.
- Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits to customize the flavor of your rice pudding. Chopped apples, pears, or berries are great additions. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
- How can I prevent the rice pudding from sticking to the bottom of the dish?
- To prevent sticking, make sure to grease the casserole dish thoroughly with butter before adding the ingredients. You can also use a non-stick baking spray for extra protection. Stirring the pudding periodically during baking will also help prevent sticking.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the rice pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration, but it will still be delicious.
