If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe is just the ticket. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with vibrant citrus flavor that truly elevates a classic rice pudding. The luscious creaminess paired with a bright hint of fresh orange zest makes every spoonful a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy treat on a chilly evening or a refreshing chilled dessert in the sunshine, this pudding will quickly become one of your favorite go-to sweets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe is wonderfully simple because each ingredient plays a key role in building its luscious texture and bright flavor. From the tender rice that becomes the heart of the pudding to the fresh orange zest that adds a citrus spark, every element is essential.
- 3/4 cup Arborio or short-grain rice: The secret to that satisfyingly creamy texture, as these rice varieties release starch beautifully.
- 4 cups whole milk: Provides richness and the perfect base liquid for cooking the rice slowly and gently.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding just right, balancing the tang of the orange.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure nothing tastes flat.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth that complements the citrus notes perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Brings that bright, fresh orange flavor that defines this recipe.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Boosts the creamy richness and smooth finish without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): A hint of warm spice to sprinkle on top if desired.
- Orange slices or zest for garnish (optional): Adds a beautiful visual touch and a burst of fresh citrus scent.
How to Make Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Simmer Ingredients
Start by pouring the rice, whole milk, sugar, and salt into a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to stop the rice from sticking to the bottom while it cooks through.
Step 2: Cook Until Thick and Rice is Tender
Allow the pudding to simmer uncovered for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture slowly thickening as the rice absorbs the milk and softens completely. The stirring is important here—keep at it lovingly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters
Remove your pudding from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, the vibrant orange zest, and heavy cream. These ingredients make the texture incredibly rich and infuse the pudding with that irresistible citrus fragrance that makes this Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe truly special.
Step 4: Let it Rest and Thicken
Give your pudding a few minutes to rest, about 5 to 10. This helps it thicken further and lets the flavors meld beautifully so every bite bursts with creamy orange goodness.
How to Serve Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To make your pudding look as gorgeous as it tastes, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top or add a few fresh orange zest curls or thin orange slices. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but brighten the aroma and enhance each mouthful.
Side Dishes
This pudding shines brightest on its own, but pairing it with a crisp, lightly spiced biscotti or almond cookies balances the creamy sweetness nicely. For a fruitier twist, fresh berries make a fantastic complementary side that adds a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dessert presentation, serve the pudding in small glass jars layered with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. You can also chill it overnight and top with whipped cream and candied orange peel for a spectacular, party-ready treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover pudding, no worries! Store it covered in the refrigerator where it will keep beautifully for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop and meld as it chills, making it tastier with time.
Freezing
While freezing rice pudding isn’t generally recommended due to changes in texture, you can freeze it for up to 1 month if needed. Thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight for best results, and give it a good stir before serving.
Reheating
When reheating your Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe, do so gently either on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream before warming to refresh that silky texture and prevent any dryness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this pudding?
Short-grain rice like Arborio is best because it releases starch to create the creamy texture that defines this pudding. Using long-grain rice will result in a less creamy, more separate texture.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in this recipe?
Heavy cream adds luxuriously rich flavor and smoothness, but you can substitute with half-and-half or additional whole milk for a lighter version, though it won’t be quite as indulgent.
Can I make this pudding vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut or almond milk and use a plant-based sweetener. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different but still delicious.
What’s the best way to zest an orange for this recipe?
Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the colorful outer layer of the orange peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Freshly grated zest delivers the most vibrant citrus flavor for the pudding.
Can this pudding be served chilled as well as warm?
Absolutely! This Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe is wonderful served warm right after cooking or chilled. Both versions highlight different aspects of its comforting, fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels both nostalgic and exciting, simple yet elegant. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment of joy. Once you try it, I’m sure you’ll find yourself coming back to this citrus-kissed comfort classic again and again.
Print
Creamy Orange-Infused Rice Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange is a luscious, comforting dessert featuring tender Arborio rice cooked to perfection in rich whole milk and sweetened with sugar. Infused with fragrant vanilla and bright orange zest, this pudding offers a delightful balance of creamy texture and citrusy flavor. Perfect for serving warm or chilled, it’s an elegant yet simple Mediterranean-inspired treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Rice Pudding Base
- 3/4 cup Arborio or short-grain rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Flavorings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Orange slices or zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. This mixture forms the creamy base of the pudding.
- Simmer the Rice: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Continue cooking for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and heavy cream thoroughly to infuse the pudding with warm vanilla notes and bright citrus flavor.
- Thicken and Rest: Allow the pudding to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps it thicken further and develop a richer texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled according to your preference. Garnish with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon or fresh orange zest for added aroma and presentation if desired.
Notes
- Use Arborio rice for a creamier texture, but any short-grain rice will also work well.
- This pudding can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the texture if it becomes too thick.
- Ground cinnamon and fresh orange zest make excellent garnish options for extra flavor and color.
