The Best No-Fuss Baked Rice Pudding Recipe

This best, no-fuss baked rice pudding recipe is the ultimate comfort food. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a warm, creamy dish of baked rice pudding fresh from the oven. This wonderful recipe is truly one of our family favorites. If this is your first time making a batch of rice pudding, it is literally the easiest thing you will ever make. Just mix everything in a baking dish and bake!
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What you will Love about this Recipe!
- Simple Ingredients – You likely have everything you need right in your pantry.
- Comforting and Nostalgic – It brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen.
- Versatile – Customize with raisins, cinnamon and nutmeg
- Budget-Friendly – Basic ingredients make this an economical yet indulgent treat.
- Perfect for All Ages – Kids and adults alike enjoy its creamy sweetness.
Ingredients for Baked Rice Pudding
- 1/2 cup of rice (white – medium or long grain rice)
- 3 cups whole fat milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (homemade with vanilla bean)
- ½ cup raisins or other dried fruit (optional)
- pinch of salt
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Not only is this pudding delicious, but everything is done in one dish!!
Supplies for Baked Rice Pudding
- Spoon
- 9-inch baking or casserole dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Rice Pudding
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine: In a 9-inch baking dish, add uncooked rice, sugar, milk, homemade vanilla, cinnamon/nutmeg (if using), and raisins (we like lots of raisins, so I usually add a handful) and give it a good stir. Adding or not adding raisins is a personal preference, but know the result is delicious either way.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven, covered for 1 hour, or until there is no more liquid, it has the right texture, and you are left with a creamy rice pudding.
- Cool: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor (optional).
- Serve: This easy rice pudding recipe can be served hot or cold. Adding milk or maple syrup on top of the pudding is a wonderful way to enjoy this comforting dessert.

Serving Suggestions
Baked rice pudding is a cozy, comforting dessert that can be dressed up in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to take it to the next level:
- Serve warm with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Top with fresh fruits like berries, or banana slices.
- Spoon a bit of whipped cream on top.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra richness.
- Sprinkle with almonds, pecans, or coconut flakes for added texture.
- Garnish with granola (homemade) for a delightful crunch.
- A splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy stirred in before serving can add warmth.
- Mix in pumpkin spice, chopped dates, or a swirl of apple butter
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How do I store rice pudding?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
3. Why is my pudding too runny?
It may need more baking time. Cook until the liquid is gone.
4. Can I freeze rice pudding?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave after thawing.
Baked rice pudding is proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most comforting desserts. With its creamy texture, warm spices, and no-fuss preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or chilled the next day, every spoonful is a taste of nostalgia and homemade goodness.
If you try this recipe and love it, please tag me on Instagram and Facebook @grindinggearsfarmstead.
Happy cooking, happy sharing, and may your kitchen always be filled with laughter and love. ❤️
Lechyd Da, (means “Cheers to Good Health” in Welsh)


The Best No-Fuss Baked Rice Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch baking or casserole dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white rice medium or long grain rice
- 3 cups whole fat milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract homemade with vanilla bean
- ½ cup raisins optional
- pinch of salt
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg optional
- Cinnamon for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine: In a 9-inch baking dish, add uncooked rice, sugar, milk, vanilla, cinnamon/nutmeg (if using), and raisins (we like lots of raisins, so I usually add a handful) and give it a good stir. Adding or not adding raisins is a personal preference, but know the result is delicious either way.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven, uncovered for 1 hour, or until there is no more liquid, it has the right texture, and you are left with a creamy rice pudding.
- Cool: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor (optional).
- Serve: This easy rice pudding recipe can be served hot or cold. Adding milk or maple syrup on top of the pudding is a wonderful way to enjoy this comforting dessert.