Imagine a dessert so creamy, so luxuriously smooth, it feels like a cool summer breeze dancing on your palate. Our Chilled Vanilla Rice Pudding with Figs is not just a dessert—it's a sensory experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. Perfect for those sweltering days when you crave something sweet, refreshing, and utterly irresistible, this recipe will transport you to a world of pure dessert bliss.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 fresh figs, sliced
Instructions
- In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine Arborio rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir ingredients together until well mixed.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring continuously, for approximately 25-30 minutes until rice becomes creamy and tender, and the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove the pan from heat and transfer the rice pudding to a clean bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and allow the pudding to cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled and set.
- Before serving, give the pudding a gentle stir to restore its creamy texture.
- Divide the chilled rice pudding evenly among 4 serving dishes or glasses.
- Top each serving with freshly sliced figs, arranging them artfully on the surface of the pudding.
- For added elegance, optionally garnish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of honey.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cool, creamy dessert with the sweet, fresh figs.
Tips
- Choose Arborio rice for the creamiest texture—its high starch content is key to achieving that signature pudding consistency.
- Stir continuously while cooking to prevent rice from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh, ripe figs for the best flavor and visual appeal. If fresh figs aren't available, consider using dried figs or a seasonal alternative.
- Cover the pudding surface with plastic wrap directly touching it to prevent a skin from forming during cooling.
- For extra richness, you can substitute some milk with heavy cream or use a combination of milk and cream.
- Chill the pudding for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and achieve the perfect texture.
- For a gourmet touch, experiment with garnishes like toasted almonds, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 12mg
