Creamy Rice Dessert
A creamy, fruit-filled rice dessert combining pineapple, mandarin oranges, cherries, and nuts with a sweet cream cheese mixture, perfect for a refreshing treat or potluck.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix drained pineapple, cooked rice, drained mandarin oranges, drained maraschino cherries, and chopped nuts together.
- In a separate bowl, beat the soft cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold the cream cheese mixture into the rice and fruit mixture.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a flavored cream cheese, such as strawberry or almond. You can substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh cherries or even cranberries for a tart twist. If you want a lighter dessert, swap out half the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. This recipe also works well with leftover rice from a previous meal, making it a great way to use up extra cooked rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy rice dessert chilled and garnish with additional chopped nuts or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Cherry-Almond Bread for a delightful brunch or dessert combination. You can also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave, but serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Rice Dessert contains roughly 1089 calories, with 18g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
While you can use instant rice, it's best to stick with cooked rice that has been chilled to achieve the desired texture. Instant rice tends to be softer, which may not provide the same satisfying bite that the recipe intends.
Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dessert vegan by substituting the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and using maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of regular sugar. Ensure that any other ingredients, like the fruits, are also vegan-friendly.
How can I add more flavor to the dessert?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the fruit mixture. Alternatively, incorporating a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla can provide a unique twist. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).