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<\/p>\nBaked rice pudding is every bit as delicious as it sounds, but this gratin-style dessert takes the classic to a whole new level. Topped with golden, crunchy breadcrumbs, this is not your ordinary rice pudding! It is irresistibly rich, creamy, and comforting, with a beautifully crisp topping that makes every bite extra special.<\/p>\n
Cooked on the stovetop until perfectly creamy, then baked in the oven until golden and crunchy, this indulgent rice pudding is finished with a fragrant orange blossom\u2013scented sugar syrup for an elegant Middle Eastern-inspired touch. It is one of those unforgettable desserts that family and friends will request again and again.<\/p>\n
Follow the detailed step-by-step video tutorial below to learn how to make this delicious baked rice pudding recipe at home.<\/p>\n
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This is not a dessert to make when you\u2019re short on time. It requires plenty of stirring, but don\u2019t let that put you off! Making this creamy baked rice pudding is more time-consuming than complicated, and it is precisely this slow, gentle cooking process that makes it so special. Give it the time and attention it deserves, and you\u2019ll be rewarded with an irresistibly rich, silky-smooth, and dreamy rice pudding that is well worth the effort.<\/p>\n
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Gradually adding the milk and allowing the rice to cook slowly creates an exceptionally rich and creamy rice pudding, infused with delicate, subtle flavors. The result is a luxuriously smooth dessert that is wonderfully indulgent without being overly sweet. A generous topping of breadcrumbs adds an irresistible crunch and a beautiful golden-brown finish, creating the perfect contrast to the creamy rice pudding beneath.<\/p>\n
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Allow any leftover baked rice pudding to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days<\/strong>. When ready to serve, reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. If the pudding has thickened during refrigeration, a small splash of milk can help restore its creamy consistency.<\/p>\n I do not recommend freezing baked rice pudding. Freezing and thawing can alter the texture of the rice and dairy, leaving the pudding grainy or less creamy. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy it freshly baked or refrigerated within four days.<\/p>\n To make this delicious baked rice pudding, you\u2019ll prepare three essential components: a fragrant orange blossom sugar syrup, golden, crispy breadcrumbs, and a rich, creamy rice pudding. Each element plays an important role in creating this irresistible dessert, combining velvety rice pudding with a crunchy topping and delicately scented syrup.<\/p>\n In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir with a wooden spoon until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 7 minutes, uncovered. Stir in the orange blossom water and continue simmering for another minute. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the syrup aside to cool completely.<\/p>\n For the best flavor and a deliciously crisp, golden topping, I recommend making your own breadcrumbs from scratch. Alternatively, you can use panko breadcrumbs for a light, crunchy texture.<\/p>\n To make homemade breadcrumbs:<\/strong><\/p>\n Your homemade breadcrumbs are now ready to use as a deliciously crunchy topping for the baked rice pudding.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water, then drain well. Transfer the rice to a saucepan, add the water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20\u201325 minutes, or until the rice is completely tender and the water has been absorbed.<\/p>\n Return the saucepan containing the cooked rice to the stovetop. Over medium-low heat, gradually incorporate the milk, adding \u00bd cup at a time. Stir continuously until each addition of milk has been absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until all 8 cups of milk have been incorporated.<\/p>\n Add the heavy cream and stir thoroughly until fully combined. Continue cooking and stirring until the cream has been absorbed and the mixture becomes thick and velvety. Stir in the orange blossom water, mixing well to distribute its delicate floral aroma throughout the pudding.<\/p>\n This gradual cooking process takes approximately 30 minutes and is essential for achieving the rich, creamy consistency that makes this baked rice pudding so special. The mixture should be thick and luscious at this stage. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.<\/p>\n Preheat the oven to 340\u00b0F (170\u00b0C). Grease an ovenproof baking dish or individual ramekins with melted butter. Sprinkle half of the breadcrumbs evenly over the bottom of the dish or ramekins.<\/p>\n Carefully spoon the creamy rice pudding over the breadcrumb layer, spreading it evenly. Finish by sprinkling the remaining breadcrumbs over the surface to create a deliciously crunchy topping.<\/p>\n Transfer the baking dish or ramekins to the preheated oven and bake for 20\u201322 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is beautifully golden and crisp.<\/p>\n Remove from the oven and serve warm, accompanied by the cooled orange blossom sugar syrup. Drizzle the fragrant syrup over each serving according to taste for the perfect balance of creamy rice pudding, crunchy breadcrumbs, and delicate floral sweetness.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n If you love traditional Lebanese desserts, explore these delicious pudding recipes, each offering its own unique flavors and textures:<\/p>\n Looking for something lighter and refreshing? You might also enjoy learning how to make Lebanese Cold Rice Pudding<\/strong><\/a>, a chilled, creamy dessert that offers a delightful alternative to this warm, oven-baked rice pudding.<\/p>\nCan You Freeze Baked Rice Pudding?<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n1. Prepare the Orange Blossom Sugar Syrup<\/h3>\n
2. Make the Homemade Breadcrumbs (or Use Panko Breadcrumbs)<\/h3>\n
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\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow to Make Baked Rice Pudding<\/h2>\n
1. Cook the Rice<\/h3>\n
2. Prepare the Creamy Rice Pudding<\/h3>\n
3. Assemble the Rice Pudding Before Baking<\/h3>\n
4. Bake Until Golden and Crispy<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nMore Lebanese Pudding Recipes to Try<\/h2>\n
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Let\u2019s Stay in Touch!<\/h2>\nNever miss a recipe! Subscribe via email<\/strong> to get comforting Middle Eastern recipes delivered straight to your inbox.<\/div>\n
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