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Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding

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Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding is a silky, creamy custard dessert infused with aromatic vanilla bean and gently balanced with a touch of cinnamon. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this naturally gluten-free treat transforms humble rice into an elegant yet comforting dessert.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Classic European
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup uncooked Arborio rice
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped (for serving)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine whole milk, Arborio rice, salt, and split vanilla bean (if using). Stir to combine.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a bowl until smooth and slightly pale. If using vanilla extract instead of a bean, mix it into the egg mixture.
  5. Uncover saucepan and continue simmering, stirring frequently, until rice is tender and mixture thickens.
  6. Remove vanilla bean pod, scrape seeds back into pudding, and discard pod.
  7. Slowly ladle hot rice mixture into egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  8. Pour tempered egg mixture back into saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until pudding thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
  9. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Press parchment or plastic wrap directly onto the surface.
  10. Refrigerate until fully chilled (about 2 hours). Serve topped with chopped pistachios and cinnamon.

Notes

  • Arborio rice creates the creamiest texture due to its high starch content.
  • Stir frequently to prevent milk from scorching.
  • Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet pudding if desired.
  • Best made ahead and chilled thoroughly for optimal texture.
  • Freezing is not recommended as texture may become grainy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/vanilla-bean-rice-pudding/