This 5-ingredient oven baked couscous dessert is the kind of simple, cozy recipe that feels made for a busy holiday week when oven space is limited and you still want something a little unexpected on the table. Using dry uncooked pearl couscous gives the dessert a pleasantly chewy, pudding-like texture once baked, and the pantry-friendly ingredient list makes it easy to pull together without a special shopping trip. It has a homespun, casserole-style charm that fits right in with Thanksgiving comfort food while still feeling a little different from the usual pies and crisps.
Serve this warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt if you want to balance the sweetness. It also pairs nicely with roasted nuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a side of fresh berries for color and contrast. If you're adding it to a holiday spread, it works especially well alongside coffee after dinner or as a cozy brunch leftover the next morning.
5-Ingredient Oven Baked Couscous Dessert
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 cup dry uncooked pearl couscous
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease an oven-safe ceramic casserole dish.
2. Add the dry pearl couscous to the casserole dish and spread it into an even layer.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon until fully combined.
4. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the couscous and gently press down any grains floating on top so they can soak up the liquid.
5. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and the top is lightly golden with the center just set.
6. Let the dessert rest for 10 minutes before serving so it can firm up slightly.
Variations & Tips
Add fruit: Stir in 1 cup of raisins, chopped apples, or diced pears before baking for a more classic holiday-dessert feel and a little extra texture.
Make it richer: Swap 1/2 cup of the milk for heavy cream if you want a more custardy, indulgent finish that feels especially nice for Thanksgiving dessert.
Use warm spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a deeper flavor that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.
Watch the bake time: Since oven-safe dishes can vary, start checking around the 35-minute mark. You want the liquid absorbed and the center set, but not dry.
Meal-prep tip: This dessert reheats surprisingly well. Cover leftovers and refrigerate, then warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.