There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the creamy comfort of rice pudding, but turning it into these Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares takes it to a whole new level. I discovered this recipe on a quiet weekend when I wanted a dessert that felt homemade yet looked elegant enough to share. With the warm aroma of vanilla filling the kitchen and a golden crust forming just right, these squares quickly became my new favorite treat. What I love most is how effortlessly they come together—no fuss, just pure, satisfying flavor that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Whether you’re craving a cozy dessert after a long day or looking to impress guests with something both familiar and fresh, these squares are a delicious surprise waiting to happen.
Why choose Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares?
Uniquely comforting: This twist on classic rice pudding delivers creamy, vanilla-infused goodness in a perfectly handheld square. Effortless preparation: Simple steps mean you can whip these up even on a busy day. Delightfully versatile: Serve warm for cozy nights or chilled as a refreshing treat. Impressive yet homey: Elegant enough for guests but with that nostalgic homemade charm. Crowd-pleaser: Mild sweetness appeals to all ages, making it a guaranteed favorite at any gathering.
Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares Ingredients
For the Rice Pudding Base
- Arborio rice – Creamy texture comes from this short-grain rice, perfect for the classic pudding feel.
- Whole milk – Richness and creaminess that form the luscious body of your baked vanilla rice pudding squares.
- Granulated sugar – Balances the gentle vanilla, adding the ideal touch of sweetness without overpowering.
- Vanilla bean or extract – The star flavor that infuses these squares with that warm, nostalgic aroma.
- Eggs – Bind the pudding together and help create the delicate custard-like structure in the squares.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, inviting crust when baked.
For Finishing Touches
- Salt – Enhances all flavors and cuts through the sweetness just right.
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional) – A sprinkle adds a subtle spice warmth that complements the vanilla perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (optional) – A light dusting before serving adds a hint of decorative sweetness.
How to Make Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter an 8×8-inch baking pan. Line with parchment so squares lift out easily.
- For the Pudding Base:
- Simmer Rice: Add rinsed Arborio rice, whole milk, sugar, and scraped vanilla bean (or extract) into a saucepan. Cook over medium, stirring until thick and creamy, about 20 minutes.
- Beat Eggs: In a bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Slowly pour a ladle of hot rice pudding into eggs, whisking constantly to temper and prevent curdling.
- Combine & Pour: Return the tempered egg mixture to the pot, stirring gently until uniform. Pour the pudding into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- For Baking & Assembly:
- Bake: Transfer to oven and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool & Slice: Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then chill for at least 1 hour. Lift out with parchment; cut into 9 or 12 even squares.
Optional: Dust with cinnamon sugar for a warm, spiced finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares
Feel free to mix things up and explore delightful twists on this classic dessert!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy, non-dairy version that retains great flavor.
A cozy dessert can still be enjoyed without dairy, bringing new life to the pudding that everyone can savor. -
Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness that adds depth.
The unique flavor profile of maple can elevate your squares and bring a delightful twist to every bite. -
Fruit-Infused: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries to the pudding base before baking for a fruity burst of flavor.
These luscious fruits not only enhance the taste but also add a pop of color, making your squares even more inviting. -
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts the creamy pudding.
This variation brings a wonderful crunch and makes each bite a delicious adventure, ideal for nut lovers. -
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or a dash of ginger to add warmth and a subtle spice kick.
A hint of spice can create a whole new experience, transforming the comforting familiar into an exciting treat. -
Coconut Cream Topping: Serve with whipped coconut cream for a rich, tropical flair that complements the vanilla beautifully.
The fluffy topping adds both a visual appeal and a luscious texture, offering a delightful finish to your squares. -
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate sauce over the squares for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
The combination of creamy vanilla pudding with the richness of chocolate will make your dessert truly irresistible. -
Citrus Zest: Stir in some lemon or orange zest for a refreshing Citrus Elevation that brightens the flavors beautifully.
This zest brings an inviting tang that balances the sweetness, adding a fresh twist everyone will enjoy.
Tips for the Best Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares
- Use Arborio rice: Choose Arborio rice for its creamy texture that gives your rice pudding squares that perfect custardy feel without turning mushy.
- Temper the eggs carefully: Gradually add warm pudding to beaten eggs to avoid scrambling and achieve a smooth, silky custard base.
- Don’t overbake: Remove from the oven when the center still jiggles slightly; it will firm up as it cools, keeping your squares tender and moist.
- Chill before slicing: Cooling and chilling helps the pudding set fully, making clean cuts easy and squares that hold their shape perfectly.
- Enhance flavor gently: A dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the baked vanilla rice pudding squares without overpowering their delicate sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the pudding base (rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla) up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it as directed and then refrigerating it. Once cooled, cover the mixture tightly to maintain its creamy texture and prevent any skin from forming. Additionally, you could whisk and temper the eggs ahead of time, keeping them in the fridge until you’re ready to combine. When you’re ready to serve, simply return the pudding mix to medium heat until warmed, then pour it into the prepared baking pan and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious, comforting squares with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares
Room Temperature: Keep the squares at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered in a cool, dry place. Just let them breathe without plastic wrap to prevent sogginess.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will maintain their creamy texture while keeping them fresh and ready for dessert anytime.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the squares for up to 3 months. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked feel with your Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares.
What to Serve with Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares?
Indulging in creamy squares brings warmth, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or blueberries adds a bright, juicy contrast that enhances the creamy, sweet squares.
- Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop of fresh whipped cream creates a luxurious mouthfeel, balancing the delightful textures of the pudding.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce over the squares introduces a decadent layer of flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.
- Spiced Chai Tea: Pairing with a warm, spiced chai tea adds a cozy warmth, perfect for sipping alongside those creamy bites.
- Caramel Sauce: The buttery sweetness of caramel sauce provides an extra indulgent touch that complements the vanilla beautifully.
- Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes bring a tropical crunch, adding a delightful textural contrast to the soft, custardy squares.
These options not only enhance the experience but also offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that resonate with the comfort of your homemade rice pudding.
Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my Arborio rice is good for this recipe?
Look for plump, shiny grains without cracks or dark spots. Arborio rice should be fresh and stored in a cool, dry place. Fresh rice gives the creamiest texture and helps your squares set perfectly.
What’s the best way to store leftover Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares?
I recommend refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep that creamy texture intact. If you need to keep them at room temperature, cover loosely and enjoy within 2 days to avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze the Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares for later?
Absolutely! Wrap each cooled square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for that fresh, cozy feel.
What should I do if my squares turn out too firm or dry?
This usually means they were overbaked. Next time, remove them from the oven when the center still jiggles slightly; it will firm up as they cool. You can also brush lightly with milk before reheating to restore some moisture.
Are these rice pudding squares safe for pets or people with allergies?
These squares contain dairy, eggs, and vanilla, which aren’t suitable for most pets. For allergies, you might substitute plant-based milk and egg replacers, but keep in mind this may affect texture and flavor. Always check ingredients carefully to suit your dietary needs!
Irresistible Baked Vanilla Rice Pudding Squares You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter an 8x8-inch baking pan. Line with parchment so squares lift out easily.
- Add rinsed Arborio rice, whole milk, sugar, and scraped vanilla bean (or extract) into a saucepan. Cook over medium, stirring until thick and creamy, about 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Slowly pour a ladle of hot rice pudding into eggs, whisking constantly to temper and prevent curdling.
- Return the tempered egg mixture to the pot, stirring gently until uniform. Pour the pudding into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Transfer to oven and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then chill for at least 1 hour. Lift out with parchment; cut into 9 or 12 even squares.
