Baked Finnish Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Almonds
A traditional Finnish baked rice pudding that transforms simple rice into a creamy, comforting dessert. The pudding is enriched with eggs, butter, and milk, then topped with cinnamon-spiced almonds for a delightful crunch. Traditionally served with a hidden whole almond for good luck, this dessert can be enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled. The light cream poured over each serving adds an extra touch of richness that makes this pudding perfect for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Cook rice according to package directions, then drain and rinse under cold water
- 2
Combine milk, melted butter, sugar, beaten eggs, and salt
- 3
Stir the rice into the milk mixture and pour into a well-buttered 2-quart casserole
- 4
Combine sliced almonds and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the pudding
- 5
Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour or until the pudding has thickened sufficiently
- 6
Press the whole almond into the pudding and cover the mark
- 7
Serve hot or chilled with light cream to pour over
Tips
Rinse the cooked rice with cold water to prevent it from becoming mushy in the pudding
Make sure the casserole is well-buttered to prevent sticking during the long bake time
The hidden whole almond is a Finnish tradition - whoever finds it gets good luck
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Can be made 1 day ahead and served chilled
Serve warm or chilled with light cream poured over each portion
Common Mistakes
Don't skip rinsing the rice to avoid mushy texture
Ensure casserole is well-buttered to prevent sticking
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use leftover rice for this pudding?
Yes, use about 3 cups of cooked rice and reduce the initial cooking time since the rice is already tender.
What if I don't have unblanched almonds?
Blanched sliced almonds work fine, though unblanched provide slightly more flavor and rustic appearance.
How long will this pudding keep in the refrigerator?
The baked rice pudding will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be served cold or reheated.