✔ Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
✔ Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2️⃣ Cook the Rice
✔ In a saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil.
✔ Add rice, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
✔ Drain excess water if needed.
✅ Pre-cooking the rice makes it extra soft and creamy!
3️⃣ Mix the Custard Base
✔ In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
✔ Stir in cooked rice and raisins (if using).
✅ Mix well so the rice evenly distributes in the custard!
4️⃣ Bake the Rice Pudding
✔ Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
✔ Sprinkle extra cinnamon on top.
✔ Bake for 45-50 minutes, stirring gently halfway through.
✔ The pudding is done when the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
✅ For a caramelized top, broil for 2 minutes at the end!
5️⃣ Cool & Serve!
✔ Let cool for 10 minutes before serving warm.
✔ Or chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours for a firmer texture.
✔ Serve with whipped cream or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon!
✅ Best enjoyed warm or cold—both ways are delicious!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Coconut Rice Pudding – Use coconut milk for a tropical twist. 🥥
🔹 Chocolate Rice Pudding – Stir in ½ cup melted chocolate. 🍫
🔹 Nutty Crunch – Add toasted almonds or pecans on top. 🌰
🔹 Caramelized Version – Drizzle with salted caramel sauce. 🍮
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store in the fridge for up to 4 days (covered).
✔ Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk for creaminess.
✔ Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before serving.
✅ Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Best Classic Rice Pudding!
This Creamy Baked Rice Pudding is comforting, rich, and infused with cinnamon goodness! Whether served warm or cold, it’s a nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
💡 Will you try this recipe? Let me know how it turns out
