1cupuncooked rice (short grain or arborio for creaminess)
2cupswater
2cupswhole milk
1can (14 oz)sweetened condensed milk
2largeeggs
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1/2teaspoonground cinnamon
1/4teaspoonnutmeg (optional)
1pinchsalt
1/2cupraisins or currants (optional)
1zestof 1 lemon or orange (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Once the rice is slightly cooled, add it to the milk mixture and stir to combine. If using, fold in the raisins or currants and lemon or orange zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Pour the rice mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9x9 inches).
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. It should have a slight jiggle in the center.
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before slicing it into squares or scooping it into bowls.
Notes
Serve warm or chilled, dusted with extra cinnamon on top. You can also drizzle with a bit more condensed milk for added sweetness!