Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits

Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits are a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with the creamy texture of rice pudding. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat.

History

This recipe has roots in traditional rice pudding recipes, which have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The addition of pineapple and nuts adds a unique twist to the classic dessert, creating a delicious and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

1 can (15.25 oz / 432 g) pineapple chunks
1 package (3 oz / 85 g) lemon flavor gelatin
1 cup ginger ale
1.5 cups cooked rice
0.75 cup chopped pecans or other nuts
1 cup whipped heavy cream
2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs

How to prepare

Drain the pineapple and set it aside.
Add water to the pineapple juice to make 0.75 cup and heat it to boiling.
Add gelatin and stir until it dissolves.
Stir in the ginger ale.
Chill the mixture until it becomes slightly thickened.
If desired, add chunks of maraschino cherry.
Beat the gelatin mixture until it becomes frothy.
Add the pineapple, rice, and nuts.
Fold in the whipped cream.
In parfait glasses, alternate layers of pudding and cookie crumbs, making 3 layers of pudding and 2 layers of crumbs.
Alternatively, spoon the pudding into dessert dishes and top with crumbs.
Return the mixture to the refrigerator to set.
Garnish with extra whipped cream and pineapple.

Variations

For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut to the pudding mixture.
Swap out the nuts for toasted almonds or macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different fruit combinations, such as mango or kiwi, in place of the pineapple.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chill the gelatin mixture until it becomes slightly thickened before adding the other ingredients. This will help the parfait set properly.

- Folding in the whipped cream gently will help maintain the light and airy texture of the dessert.

- For added flavor and texture, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the parfaits before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits chilled, garnished with extra whipped cream and a pineapple chunk on top for a beautiful presentation.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include chilling the gelatin mixture until slightly thickened, folding in the whipped cream gently, and layering the pudding and crumbs in the parfait glasses.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ginger ale on hand, you can use lemon-lime soda as a substitute. You can also use almond or coconut milk in place of the heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to garnish with whipped cream and pineapple right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the parfaits in stemmed glasses or small mason jars. You can also sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

These parfaits pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful after-dinner treat. For a more indulgent pairing, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover parfaits in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the pineapple. It also provides a small amount of calcium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and dairy (whipped cream), so it may not be suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.

Summary

Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits are a delicious dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamin C and provide a moderate amount of calories per serving.

Summary

Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits are a delicious and satisfying dessert that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with the creamy texture of rice pudding. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as a good source of vitamin C, this dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy it chilled and garnished with whipped cream and a pineapple chunk for a beautiful presentation.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly coffee date. As I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most delightful aroma of sweet pineapple and creamy rice. Margaret had prepared a batch of Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits and I was instantly intrigued.

"Mary, you have to try this recipe," Margaret exclaimed, handing me a spoonful of the parfait. I took a bite and was blown away by the combination of flavors and textures. The creamy rice was perfectly cooked and the sweet pineapple added a refreshing twist. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish.

Margaret chuckled at my enthusiasm and pulled out a tattered recipe card from her recipe box. "This is my grandmother's recipe," she said, handing it to me. "She used to make it for us on special occasions when we were kids."

I thanked Margaret for sharing the recipe with me and promised to give it a try. As I drove home that day, I couldn't stop thinking about the Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits. I was determined to master the recipe and add it to my repertoire of dishes.

The following weekend, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. I followed the recipe carefully, stirring the rice and pineapple mixture until it thickened and became creamy. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating and I knew I was on the right track.

After letting the mixture cool, I assembled the parfaits in tall glasses, layering the creamy rice with chunks of sweet pineapple. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the delicious flavors that danced on my tongue. It was just as good as I remembered from Margaret's kitchen.

From that day on, Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I made the dish, I would think of Margaret and her grandmother, grateful for their recipe that had become a beloved tradition in my own home.

Over the years, I would tweak the recipe slightly, adding a pinch of cinnamon here or a splash of coconut milk there. Each variation brought a new dimension to the dish, but the core flavors of creamy rice and sweet pineapple remained constant.

As I continued to make the Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits, I found joy in sharing the recipe with others. I would write it down on recipe cards and pass it along to friends and family who marveled at the unique combination of ingredients. It became my signature dish, my go-to recipe that never failed to impress.

Now, as I look back on my culinary journey, I am grateful for the serendipitous moment when I first laid eyes on the recipe for Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits. It sparked a love for cooking and a desire to explore new flavors and techniques in the kitchen. And though Margaret is no longer with us, her grandmother's recipe lives on, a cherished piece of my culinary heritage that I will pass down to future generations.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a sweet and satisfying dessert, I urge you to give Creamy Rice and Pineapple Parfaits a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to savor each bite and appreciate the memories that come with it. Happy cooking!