If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy dessert that’s rich, creamy, and comforting, Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding is the answer. Made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, this pudding is baked to perfection, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. The addition of sweetened condensed milk gives it an extra layer of richness and sweetness, turning an ordinary dessert into something extraordinary. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to a special treat to enjoy on your own.
1. Why You’ll Love Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
This baked rice pudding isn’t just delicious, it’s also incredibly satisfying. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
🍚 Comforting & Creamy
Rice pudding is a timeless comfort food, and the baking process creates a lovely texture with a custardy top and creamy bottom.
🧑🍳 Easy to Make
With just a few ingredients, this pudding comes together quickly. It requires minimal prep time and a little patience while it bakes.
🍯 Extra Sweetness from Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and sweetness that traditional sugar just can’t match, making this pudding decadently creamy.
🍽️ Perfect for Leftovers
This pudding keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
2. Ingredients for Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
You only need a few simple ingredients to create this heavenly dessert:
🌾 For the Rice Pudding:
- 1 cup short-grain rice (like Arborio or pudding rice)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large egg (for richness)
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for flavor)
- Pinch of salt
🌟 Optional Toppings:
- Ground nutmeg (for garnish)
- Raisins or dried fruit (for texture)
- Whipped cream (for extra indulgence)
- Chopped nuts (like almonds or pistachios)
3. How to Make Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
This pudding comes together easily with these simple steps:
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (around 8×8 inches) with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Then, combine it with the milk and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to simmer. Lower the heat, and cook for about 15–20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir often to prevent the rice from sticking.
3. Mix the Pudding Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
4. Combine Rice and Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the egg mixture into the warm rice, stirring constantly to prevent the egg from curdling. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Bake
Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 40–45 minutes, or until the pudding is golden on top and set in the center. The top should have a light, custardy crust, while the inside remains creamy.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the pudding cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled in the fridge. Top with ground nutmeg, raisins, or whipped cream for extra flair.
4. Why This Dessert is So Special
Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding is more than just a simple dessert. Here’s why it’s so special:
🌾 Rice as a Base
The rice gives this pudding a lovely texture that’s filling and satisfying, while the creamy milk mixture surrounds the grains with smooth sweetness.
🍯 Sweetened Condensed Milk
The use of sweetened condensed milk elevates this dish, adding an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness that regular sugar and milk can’t provide.
🍽️ Versatile Texture
The baking process creates a nice custardy top with a softer, creamier center, making each spoonful a mix of textures—perfect for those who love contrasts in dessert.
5. Topping Ideas and Variations
Take your pudding to the next level with these fun and customizable additions:
🍇 Fruity Variations:
- Raisins or dried cranberries: Stir them into the pudding before baking for a burst of sweet flavor.
- Fresh berries: Top with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a tangy contrast.
🍫 Indulgent Additions:
- Chocolate chips: Add chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
🍪 Flavor Variations:
- Coconut milk: Use coconut milk for a tropical twist or in place of some of the milk for a more exotic flavor.
- Nutmeg or cloves: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
6. Storage and Reheating Tips
This pudding can be made ahead and stored for later, making it an excellent dessert for meal prep.
🧊 Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
🔁 Reheating:
- Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
❄️ Freezing:
- You can also freeze this pudding. After it’s completely cooled, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
✅ FAQs – Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding
1. Can I use regular rice instead of pudding rice?
Yes, you can use any rice, but pudding rice (or Arborio) creates the best creamy, tender texture. Regular rice will work, but the result may be slightly less creamy.
2. Can I make this pudding without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in 3 tablespoons of water to create a custard-like texture.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this rice pudding is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of dairy milk and a plant-based butter or oil. You can also substitute the egg with cornstarch or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
5. Can I use evaporated milk instead of condensed milk?
Evaporated milk is unsweetened, so it won’t provide the same sweetness and creaminess as sweetened condensed milk. If you use evaporated milk, you’ll need to add sugar (about ¾ cup) to balance the sweetness.
6. Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can make this the day before and refrigerate it. Rice pudding often tastes even better after it has chilled and the flavors have melded.
7. How do I know when the pudding is done baking?
The pudding is done when it’s golden on top and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean, and the edges should be firm but the center slightly jiggly.
8. Can I make this without baking?
While this is a baked version, you could cook it on the stovetop, stirring often until thickened, but it won’t have the same custardy texture from baking.
9. Can I add other fruits to the pudding?
Yes! Sliced bananas, peaches, or apples would all make delicious additions, either mixed into the pudding or added as a topping.
10. What’s the best way to serve this pudding?
Serve it warm or chilled, with a dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, or whipped cream. You can also drizzle with a bit of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Warm, creamy, and indulgent, this Condensed Milk Baked Rice Pudding is a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. Want to make it even more decadent or explore different flavors? Let me know! 🍚🍯🍨