If you’re searching for the ultimate Cozy treat to brighten your day, Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange is simply a must-make. This dreamy dessert blends creamy, tender rice with velvety milk and a burst of lively orange zest, creating a bowlful of comfort that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. It’s easy enough for a lazy Sunday but elegant enough to impress at your next brunch or get-together. Imagine that silky texture with hints of citrus and cinnamon—honestly, it’s pure joy by the spoonful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in the simplicity of these ingredients—each one has a purpose and brings something special to the final dish. Choose the best quality you can, because these few basics work together to deliver pure comfort, texture, and a bright ribbon of citrus flavor.
- Arborio Rice: Short-grain arborio gets extra creamy as it cooks, making every bite velvety-soft.
- Whole Milk: Rich and full-bodied, whole milk creates a smooth base (swap half for coconut milk for a tropical twist).
- Heavy Cream: A splash at the start intensifies that luxurious, custardy texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten, but not overpower; you can always adjust to your taste.
- Salt: Don’t skip this pinch—it sharpens flavors and keeps the pudding from tasting flat.
- Orange Zest: The zest of a large orange is what makes this Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange shine—the aroma is irresistible!
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors in the most comforting way.
- Ground Cinnamon (optional): A classic sprinkle of spice that plays beautifully with orange.
- Orange Segments and Ground Cinnamon (for garnish): Fresh slices and a dash of cinnamon make for a beautiful finish and extra zesty aroma.
How to Make Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange
Step 1: Combine Your Base Ingredients
Start by adding the arborio rice, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt into a roomy saucepan. This is your chance to set the foundation for that dreamy, luscious texture. Stir everything together well—the rice should be gently swimming, not crowded! Place the pan over medium heat and get ready for the kitchen to fill with the toasty smell of rice heating up in milk.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Boil
Stir frequently as everything comes to a soft boil. Keeping it moving will coax out the starch from the rice (that’s what makes our Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange so delightfully thick) and prevent anything from sticking. As soon as bubbles start forming, turn the heat right down to low for a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Simmer Low and Slow
Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to stir now and then—enough to keep the rice from catching on the bottom but not so much that you lose patience. Watch as the liquid thickens and the rice softens. Toward the end, the pudding will look creamy and a little loose (it’ll thicken more as it cools, trust me!).
Step 4: Stir in the Citrus and Spice
Once the rice is perfectly tender, take the pan off the heat. Stir in your freshly grated orange zest, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if you’re using it. As soon as these go in, the aroma is pure magic. Let your Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange rest in the pot for about 5 minutes so it firms up a bit and all those flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Spoon the warm pudding into bowls, or let it cool and chill in the fridge if you prefer it cold. Either way, top with bright orange segments and a dusting of cinnamon for that signature look and flavor. The blend of creamy, citrusy, and spicy notes is pure bliss!
How to Serve Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange
Garnishes
A generous pile of fresh orange segments and a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon are all you need to accentuate the flavors in Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange. You can also add a few candied orange peels or a sprig of mint if you want to dress things up for company. The colors are gorgeous, and the aroma is just as enticing as the first spoonful!
Side Dishes
While this pudding is wonderful on its own, it pairs beautifully with a platter of seasonal berries or a platter of toasted nuts for crunch. If serving for breakfast or brunch, offer tiny espresso shots or spiced chai alongside—the creamy, zesty dessert balances coffee or tea perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, portion Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange into small jars or pretty glasses, layering with alternating orange segments. Or, let it cool, then cut chilled pudding into squares and top each with whipped cream and grated orange zest for a twist reminiscent of European patisseries. Individual ramekins look adorable and add a touch of elegance to any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Your Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange will stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to four days. The texture will thicken, but a stir with a splash of milk returns it to perfect creaminess every time.
Freezing
While you can freeze rice pudding, I find that the texture sometimes changes after thawing—it becomes a little less creamy and the rice a tad firmer. If you do decide to freeze it, portion it out in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently. Stir well after thawing to revive the texture, and add extra milk if needed.
Reheating
Reheat Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk as it warms to loosen up the pudding, stirring until it’s luscious and steamy again. If you simmer it gently, you preserve the creamy texture and citrusy aroma that makes this dish so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert, Breakfast
Absolutely! While arborio rice delivers the best creaminess, you can substitute with another short-grain, pudding, or even medium-grain white rice in a pinch. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly and the final pudding might be less velvety.
Is it possible to make this dairy free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, use your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk (like almond, coconut, or oat) and swap out the cream for full-fat coconut milk. Enjoy a plant-based Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange that’s still ultra-creamy and just as vibrant.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Definitely. Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and just assemble with garnishes before serving. If it thickens too much, simply stir in a splash of milk until it’s back to its creamy glory.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
The key is to stir regularly, especially during the first few minutes and again as the pudding thickens toward the end of cooking. Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan also helps protect against hot spots that can scorch the rice or milk.
Can I use bottled orange juice or extract instead of zest?
For the brightest, freshest orange flavor, orange zest is essential in Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange. Juice or extract may not deliver the same depth or aroma, so zesting a fresh orange really makes a difference!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like treating yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange—it’s homey, a little fancy, and always comforting. The combination of silky rice, creamy sauce, and zingy orange zest will surely win over anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give this recipe a try and discover just how delightful rice pudding can be!
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Creamy Rice Pudding with Orange Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, European
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this delightful Creamy Rice Pudding with a refreshing hint of orange. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a luxurious breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Arborio rice or other short-grain rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients:
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Orange segments and ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a large saucepan, combine rice, milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 30–35 minutes until creamy.
- Add Flavors: Stir in orange zest, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if desired. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled, garnished with orange segments and cinnamon.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute half of the milk with coconut milk.
- You can adjust sweetness or add orange juice for more citrus flavor.
- The pudding thickens as it cools—add milk when reheating if needed.
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