Danish Christmas Rice Pudding
Rich Danish Christmas Rice Pudding combines creamy rice, toasted almonds, and sweet cherry topping for a festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings and family celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put milk, rice, sugar, and salt into the top of a double boiler.
- Cover and cook until rice is soft and thick, about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Cool completely, then add vanilla, chopped almonds, and the whole almond.
- Whip whipping cream until stiff.
- Carefully stir the whipped cream into the rice mixture.
- Heat cherry pie filling and serve on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using arborio rice instead of regular rice, as it can absorb more liquid and create a richer pudding. You can also substitute the whipping cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream, for a lighter version. If you prefer, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the rice mixture for added warmth and depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Danish Christmas Rice Pudding in individual bowls topped with warm cherry pie filling for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with a side of Dutch Coleslaw for a balanced meal. For added texture, sprinkle some extra chopped almonds on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pudding in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency if it thickens too much in the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Danish Christmas Rice Pudding contains roughly 3330 calories, with 96g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 288g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (193% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (191% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2042mg per serving (89% 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 make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, this pudding can be made a day in advance. Prepare it as directed, then refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to whip the cream and mix it in just before serving to maintain its light texture.
What can I substitute for the cherry pie filling?
If cherry pie filling isn't available, you can use any fruit topping of your choice, such as blueberry or strawberry. Alternatively, fresh fruit can be used for a healthier option, or you could make a quick fruit compote by cooking down berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional toppings or mix-ins, like almond extracts or whipped cream, are also gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those following gluten-free diets.
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).