Name: Oven-Baked Rice Pudding with Spices Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp salted butter (melted); 3/4 cup Arborio rice; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; pinch of nutmeg; pinch of kosher salt; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Print Recipe· 3.8 from 7 reviews

If you have a cozy night ahead or simply want to impress your friends with a comforting, sweet treat, this Oven-Baked Rice Pudding with Spices Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a luscious, creamy pudding infused with warm cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, slowly baked to perfection so the rice becomes tender and every bite melts in your mouth. The blend of aromatic spices adds a depth that transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with love and nostalgia. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to become one of your favorite go-to desserts for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white oval dish is shown from above on a white marbled surface with a pink textured cloth underneath. Inside the dish, there is a mix of two layers: the bottom layer is a loose, light brown grainy mixture with visible oats, and the top layer is a creamy white liquid being poured from a glass container on the left side of the image. A silver spoon with an ornate handle rests inside the dish, partially submerged in the oat mixture. The creamy liquid contrasts softly with the textured oats, and the scene is bright with natural lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is delightfully simple but every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the ideal creamy, flavorful pudding. From the rich butter that adds silkiness, to the fragrant spices that give the pudding its soul, each component is essential.

2 tbsp salted butter (melted): Coats the baking dish and adds a glossy richness to the pudding’s texture.
3/4 cup Arborio rice: Perfect for absorbing liquid and developing that tender, creamy consistency.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: Gives just the right level of sweetness without overpowering the spices.
1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a smooth, familiar warmth.
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings cozy, aromatic warmth that defines this classic dessert.
1/2 tsp ground cloves: Adds a subtle yet fragrant depth that complements the cinnamon.
Pinch of nutmeg: Introduces a gentle hint of spice that rounds out the spicy notes perfectly.
Pinch of kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
3 cups whole milk: The creamy base that soaks into the rice for ultimate softness.
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and ensures the pudding is decadently smooth.

How to Make Oven-Baked Rice Pudding with Spices Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, pour the melted butter into your favorite pie or small casserole dish, then run your fingers or a brush around the sides to evenly coat the surface. This step creates a luscious buttery base that prevents sticking and adds flavor.

Step 2: Combine Rice, Sugar, and Spices

Next, add the Arborio rice, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg, and a pinch of kosher salt right into the baking dish. Mix everything well until the dry ingredients and spices are fully combined, so the flavors can marry beautifully during baking.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cream and Stir

Pour in the whole milk and heavy whipping cream over the rice and spice mixture. Gently stir to combine, making sure the rice is evenly submerged in the creamy liquid. This mixture is the heart of the pudding, and stirring it well ensures every grain absorbs the luscious dairy and spices.

Step 4: Bake and Stir

Place the baking dish on a sheet pan for easy handling, then transfer it into the oven. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. At the 30-minute mark, be sure to give the pudding a good stir and rotate the baking sheet for even cooking. As it bakes, a delicate skin will begin to form on top; you can choose to stir this back in or leave it for some delightful texture contrast.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the pudding is tender and fully cooked through, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Spoon the remaining liquid over the top to keep each serving moist and sumptuous. You can enjoy this pudding warm or let it come to room temperature before chilling for a different experience.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Rice Pudding with Spices Recipe

A white oval dish filled with creamy beige oatmeal that has a rough texture, topped in the center with a cluster of bright red strawberries sliced in half, whole red raspberries, and some white coconut flakes scattered around the berries. There is a silver spoon resting inside the dish on the right side, partially dipped in the oatmeal. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with some fresh strawberries and a bowl of raspberries nearby, accompanied by a soft pink cloth with fringe on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The perfect garnish can turn your Oven-Baked Rice Pudding with Spices Recipe from fantastic to fabulous. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top, add a handful of toasted nuts for crunch, or place a dollop of whipped cream to add playful lightness. Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey can provide a lovely contrast, making each bite more exciting.

Side Dishes

This pudding shines as a stand-alone dessert but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch vibe, serve alongside lightly spiced chai or warm coffee to complement the spiced notes in the pudding without overwhelming them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the pudding in individual ramekins for an elegant touch. You can even sprinkle crushed pistachios or toasted coconut flakes on top to add visual appeal and extra texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, layer the pudding with cooked fruit compotes or caramel sauce for a decadent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover rice pudding stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the pudding even more flavorful the next day. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh its creamy consistency.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Portion the pudding into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat for a comforting, ready-to-enjoy dessert anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pudding in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the silky texture. It’s just as delicious warm as it is chilled, so reheat according to your preference.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Arborio rice is ideal because of its starchiness, which creates that creamy texture. Using other rices like basmati or jasmine might result in a less creamy pudding, but you can experiment if needed.

Is it necessary to bake the rice pudding, or can it be cooked on the stovetop?

Baking slowly allows the rice to absorb the milk evenly and develop a wonderful texture with less stirring. While stovetop versions exist, this oven-baked method makes your life easier and the pudding creamier.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with full-fat coconut milk and heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What do I do if a skin forms on top during baking?

You can gently stir it back in before serving, which incorporates more creaminess, or leave it as is for a slightly firmer, contrasting texture—both are delightful!

How long can I keep the prepared rice pudding in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this pudding can be kept refrigerated for up to four days without any loss of quality or flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Baked Rice Pudding with Spices Recipe is truly a cozy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re new to rice pudding or a longtime fan, this version offers rich creaminess accented by warm spices that make every spoonful special. It’s so satisfying to bake, easy to share, and utterly delicious no matter the season. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert to enjoy with friends and family!