This creamy rice pudding is made with pudding rice, whole milk, caster sugar, butter, and nutmeg, then baked low and slow until golden. It comes together in minutes with just five ingredients, then the oven does all the work over two hours. Serves 4 and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes from start to finish.
I make this every time the weather turns cold and the family wants something warm and comforting after dinner. It fills the kitchen with the most wonderful smell while it bakes away quietly in the oven.
Rice Pudding Ingredients
- 75g pudding rice
- 50g caster sugar
- 1 litre whole milk
- 15g unsalted butter
- A generous grating of nutmeg
How To Make Rice Pudding
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C Fan / Gas Mark 2). Choose a shallow ovenproof dish, such as a pie dish or small casserole.
- Combine the ingredients: Place the pudding rice and caster sugar into the dish and stir. Pour in the whole milk, dot the butter over the surface, and finish with a generous grating of nutmeg.
- Bake the pudding: Set the dish on a baking tray and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours. A golden skin will form on top. Break it after the first hour for a creamier result, or leave it for a thicker finish.
- Serve warm: The pudding is ready when the rice is tender and the mixture is thick and creamy. Serve with a spoonful of jam, fresh fruit, or on its own.
What Are the Best Tips for Rice Pudding?
- Choose the right rice: Pudding rice or any short-grain rice works best here. It releases starch as it cooks, which creates that thick, creamy texture.
- Keep the temperature low: Baking at 150°C for a long time lets the rice cook gently and absorb the milk without drying out. It also encourages the golden skin to form on top.
- Do not skip the butter: The butter adds richness and helps create a golden crust on the surface of the pudding.
- Add your own twist: Try stirring in a vanilla pod, a handful of raisins, or some orange zest before baking. For another comforting baked dessert, try the Hairy Bikers bread and butter pudding.
What Goes Well With This Pudding?
This pudding is lovely on its own, straight from the oven. A spoonful of raspberry or strawberry jam stirred through the top is the most traditional way to serve it.
You could also try a drizzle of golden syrup, some fresh berries, or a dollop of clotted cream. If you enjoy classic British desserts, the Hairy Bikers treacle tart makes a great companion for a proper pudding spread.
How Should You Store Leftovers?
Let the rice pudding cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It will thicken as it chills, so add a splash of milk when you reheat it gently on the hob.
Freezing is not recommended. The rice tends to turn grainy once thawed, and the texture will not be the same.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 55g
- Dietary Fibre: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make rice pudding on the hob instead of in the oven? Yes, simmer the rice in milk on a low heat for about 25 minutes, stirring often. The oven method gives a better skin and creamier texture without constant stirring.
How does Hairy Bikers rice pudding compare to Mary Berry’s version? Mary Berry’s recipe uses eggs for a custard-style finish, while this version relies on slow baking to thicken naturally. Both are creamy, but this one is simpler with fewer ingredients.
Can I use semi-skimmed milk for this recipe? You can, but the pudding will not be as rich or creamy. Whole milk gives the best results because the fat content helps create a thicker, silkier texture.
Can I add toppings or flavourings to rice pudding? Yes, try a spoonful of jam, a drizzle of golden syrup, or some stewed fruit on top. You can also stir in cardamom, cinnamon, or lemon zest before baking for a different flavour.
Can I make rice pudding ahead of time and reheat it? Yes, reheat gently on the hob with a splash of milk to loosen it. For another comforting make-ahead dessert, try the Hairy Bikers sticky toffee pudding.
You May Also Like:
- Hairy Bikers Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
- Hairy Bikers Treacle Tart Recipe
- Hairy Bikers Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe
Hairy Bikers Rice Pudding Recipe
Description
A classic oven-baked rice pudding made with pudding rice, whole milk, caster sugar, butter, and nutmeg. Baked low and slow for over two hours until thick, creamy, and topped with a golden skin.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C Fan / Gas Mark 2). Place the pudding rice, sugar, milk, and butter into a shallow ovenproof dish.
- Bake: Grate nutmeg over the top and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the rice is tender and the pudding is thick and creamy.
- Serve: Serve warm on its own or with a favourite topping like jam or fresh fruit.
