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
Scale
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.
