Lemon Rice Pudding

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert with a little zest, then this Lemon Rice Pudding is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy rice pudding with just the right amount of tartness from the lemon, giving it a refreshing twist. It’s rich, satisfying, and makes for the perfect end to any meal—or even as a sweet snack throughout the day. You’ll be hooked after the first spoonful. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Rice Pudding

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or treating yourself to something sweet, this dish has a special place for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for any time of the year, from a warm winter dessert to a refreshing summer treat.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it a stress-free choice when you’re craving something sweet.
Customizable: Add some raisins, cinnamon, or even a little vanilla for your twist on this classic.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s the kind of dessert that everyone will love—kids and adults alike. Its creamy, citrusy goodness is a hit at any table.

Ingredients in Lemon Rice Pudding

Here’s what you need to create this silky, citrusy dessert:

Rice: Use short-grain or medium-grain rice for that perfect creamy texture.
Milk: The creamier the milk, the richer the pudding—whole milk is a great choice.
Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tart lemon.
Lemon Zest: The star ingredient! It brings a fresh, zesty punch to the pudding.
Lemon Juice: Adds even more lemony flavor and a nice tart contrast to the sweetness.
Eggs: They help give the pudding a smooth, custard-like consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
Salt: A pinch helps bring out the sweetness and balance the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy, dreamy dessert:

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring your rice and water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Make the Pudding Base: In another saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the milk is warmed.

Combine with Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Gradually add a small amount of the warm milk mixture to the eggs to temper them, then slowly whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk.

Cook the Pudding: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid any lumps.

Add the Lemon: Once the pudding is thick and creamy, remove from the heat and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Chill and Serve: Pour the rice pudding into serving dishes and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Spoon into bowls, sit back, and enjoy the creamy, citrusy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories per serving: approx. 200–250
(put them as notes)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Rice Pudding

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve the Lemon Rice Pudding with fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus slices, for a light, refreshing contrast. You could also pair it with a cup of herbal tea for a soothing after-dinner treat.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Stir the pudding continuously while it’s cooking to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
– If you prefer a thicker pudding, simply let it cook for a little longer.
– You can use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative, though the texture may be slightly different.
– For an extra burst of flavor, top the pudding with toasted coconut or chopped nuts.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this rice pudding ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it the day before and let it chill in the fridge overnight.

2. Can I use other types of rice?
It’s best to use short-grain rice for that creamy texture, but medium-grain rice can also work.

3. How do I know when the pudding is done?
The pudding is done when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. It should have a custard-like consistency.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I add other fruits to the pudding?
Definitely! You can mix in some berries or even sliced bananas for extra flavor.

6. How do I store leftover pudding?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

7. Can I freeze this pudding?
Rice pudding doesn’t freeze well because the texture changes. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

8. Can I add more lemon juice for extra tang?
Absolutely! You can adjust the lemon juice to your taste for more tartness.

9. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice will work, but the texture will be a little different, and it may take a bit longer to cook.

10. How do I make the pudding thicker?
If you want thicker pudding, cook it for a little longer, but be careful not to overcook and curdle the eggs.

Conclusion

Lemon Rice Pudding is the perfect dessert when you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and just a little bit tangy. With a delicate balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your dessert cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the smooth, refreshing goodness of every bite!

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