Scandinavian Rice Cream
A creamy Scandinavian rice pudding infused with subtle sweetness and served with tart lingonberries, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine milk, rice, sugar, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens, several hours before serving.
- Transfer to a serving dish and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Top the rice cream with whipped cream and lingonberries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use short-grain rice, which absorbs more liquid and becomes stickier. If you're short on heavy cream, you can substitute it with a mixture of half-and-half and a bit of butter for richness. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can also enhance the flavor. Make sure to stir the rice mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Scandinavian Rice Cream chilled, topped generously with whipped cream and lingonberries for a tart contrast. It makes a delightful dessert after a hearty meal or can be paired with warm pastries like cinnamon rolls or even a slice of Irish Soda Bread (Award Winner For The Laoh Feis) for a special treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rice cream can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture and make it grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scandinavian Rice Cream contains roughly 593 calories, with 14g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2312mg per serving (101% 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 a different type of fruit instead of lingonberries?
Yes, you can substitute lingonberries with other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. Each will impart a unique flavor and add a vibrant color to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness based on the tartness of the fruit you choose.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, Scandinavian Rice Cream is naturally gluten-free as it is made primarily with milk and rice. However, always check that your ingredients, especially processed ones like sugar and cream, do not contain any gluten or cross-contamination if you have severe gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan whipped topping. Use a plant-based sweetener if desired. The texture and flavor will differ slightly, but it can still be a delicious alternative.
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).