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### **Instructions for Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon**
#### *1. Cook the Rice:*
Begin by cooking the rice. Rinse the rice in cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
#### *2. Prepare the Pudding Mixture:*
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Butter a 2-quart (or larger) baking dish and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the milk to this mixture, whisking continuously to ensure the eggs don’t scramble.
#### *3. Combine Rice and Milk Mixture:*
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Pour the milk mixture over the rice, making sure all of the rice is evenly covered. If you’re adding raisins, sprinkle them on top of the mixture at this point.
Dot the top of the pudding with small pieces of butter, which will melt and add richness to the pudding as it bakes.
#### *4. Bake the Pudding:*
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding has set and the top is golden brown. The pudding should still have a slight jiggle in the center, but the edges will be firm and slightly browned. Stir the pudding halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking, especially if you have added raisins.
#### *5. Cool and Serve:*
Once the pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve the rice pudding warm or at room temperature, topped with a dusting of cinnamon.
### **Why You’ll Love Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon**
This baked rice pudding is a comforting dessert that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to every bite. The combination of sweet, creamy custard with the softness of rice is irresistibly satisfying. The cinnamon adds a fragrant, spicy touch that enhances the pudding’s rich flavor, while the golden, slightly crisped top adds a delightful texture contrast.
What makes this baked version of rice pudding particularly special is the depth of flavor that comes from baking it. As the pudding bakes, the rice soaks up the creamy mixture, becoming even more tender and flavorful. The butter helps create a luxurious texture, making this pudding a true indulgence. For those who love raisins, they add a burst of sweetness that complements the warm spices perfectly.
### **Tips for Perfect Creamy Baked Rice Pudding**
– **Use whole milk or cream**: For the creamiest, richest pudding, whole milk is the best choice. If you want to go all out, use half-and-half or even heavy cream for an ultra-luxurious pudding.
– **Don’t overcook the rice**: Make sure your rice is tender but not mushy. Overcooked rice will break down too much in the pudding, affecting the texture.
– **Stir halfway through baking**: Stirring the pudding halfway through ensures that the rice cooks evenly, especially when using raisins. It also helps prevent the rice from becoming too dry on the top.
– **Add more spices**: If you enjoy the flavor of spices, you can experiment with a pinch of ground cardamom, ginger, or even a splash of almond extract to give your pudding an extra layer of complexity.
### **Why Rice Pudding is a Timeless Dessert**
Rice pudding is one of those comforting desserts that transcends time and place. It has been enjoyed in various forms around the world—from creamy, custardy variations in Europe to more spiced and fragrant versions in the Middle East and Asia. Its simplicity, combined with its ability to be adapted in countless ways, has made it a beloved dish for generations.
The versatility of rice pudding also means it can be enjoyed year-round. In the colder months, it’s a perfect warming dessert, while in the summer, you can enjoy it chilled for a refreshing, creamy treat.
### **Final Thoughts**
Creamy Baked Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is a dessert that brings a sense of comfort and joy with every spoonful. With its tender rice, creamy custard, and fragrant cinnamon topping, it’s the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves rich, homemade desserts. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, this pudding is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this cozy, satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
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