Rice Crème Brûlée

Rice Crème Brûlée Recipe: A Classic French Dessert with a Hint of Almond

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Rice Crème Brûlée is a delicious and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of rice pudding with the caramelized sweetness of a classic crème brûlée. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a unique and decadent treat.

History

The origins of Rice Crème Brûlée can be traced back to traditional rice pudding recipes that have been enjoyed for centuries. The addition of a caramelized sugar topping, inspired by the classic French dessert crème brûlée, adds a modern twist to this timeless dish.

Ingredients

4 cups heavy cream
0.33 cup sugar
3 eggs
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
1.5 cups cooked medium-grain rice
6 tbsp raisins
1.5 tsp cocoa powder
1.5 tsp confectioners sugar

How to prepare

Heat the cream and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it is near boiling.
Beat the eggs and egg yolks until well combined.
Gradually mix the hot cream mixture into the eggs and return the mixture to the saucepan.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla.
Place 0.25 cup of rice and 1 tbsp of raisins into each custard cup.
Pour 0.75 cup of custard over the rice and raisins, and mix well.
Place the cups in a baking pan.
Pour hot water around the cups.
Bake at 300°F (149°C) for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set.
Allow the custards to cool, then cover and refrigerate them.
Sift the cocoa and sugar together.
Just before serving, sift the cocoa mixture over each custard.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard mixture for a boozy twist.
Experiment with different types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, for a unique flavor profile.
Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing contrast to the rich custard.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the custard over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.

- For a smoother texture, strain the custard mixture before pouring it over the rice and raisins.

- To achieve the perfect caramelized sugar topping, use a kitchen torch or broiler to melt and brown the sugar just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice Crème Brûlée chilled, with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and confectioners sugar on top for a beautiful presentation. Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful after-dinner treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Rice Crème Brûlée is to cook the custard gently over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Baking the custards in a water bath ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream for a lighter version of this dessert.

- Use dried cranberries or chopped nuts in place of raisins for a different flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice Crème Brûlée can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before serving. Just be sure to caramelize the sugar topping just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Rice Crème Brûlée in individual ramekins or custard cups for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this rich and creamy dessert with a glass of dessert wine, such as a late-harvest Riesling or a sweet Moscato, for a perfect end to a special meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Rice Crème Brûlée in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the custard cups in a warm water bath or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice Crème Brûlée contains approximately 450 calories, making it a decadent but satisfying dessert option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice Crème Brûlée contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and indulgent dessert option.

Fats

With 30 grams of fat per serving, Rice Crème Brûlée is a rich and creamy treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Proteins

This dessert contains 6 grams of protein per serving, providing a small but significant amount of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice Crème Brûlée is a good source of calcium, providing 15% of the recommended daily intake per serving. It also contains small amounts of iron and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream and eggs) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. It also contains eggs and may not be suitable for those with egg allergies.

Summary

Rice Crème Brûlée is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in fat and carbohydrates, making it a decadent treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Rice Crème Brûlée is a decadent and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of rice pudding with the caramelized sweetness of a classic crème brûlée. With a rich and satisfying texture, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy this indulgent treat on special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly delicious.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Rice Crème Brûlée. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck dinner at a friend's house. As I was brainstorming what to bring, I stumbled upon a recipe for this unique and decadent dessert.

I had never heard of Rice Crème Brûlée before, but the combination of creamy rice pudding topped with a crispy caramelized sugar crust sounded absolutely delightful. I knew I had to give it a try.

I set out to gather all the ingredients I would need for this special dish. I carefully measured out the Arborio rice, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, following the recipe step by step. As I stirred the ingredients together on the stovetop, the kitchen filled with the warm, comforting aroma of vanilla and rice.

As the rice pudding simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but think back to my own childhood and the memories I had of my grandmother's cooking. She was the one who first instilled in me a love of food and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.

My grandmother had a vast collection of recipes that she had collected over the years, each one passed down from generation to generation. She had learned to cook from her own mother, who had learned from hers, and so on. I had spent countless hours by her side in the kitchen, watching and learning as she worked her magic with pots and pans.

One of my favorite memories was the day my grandmother taught me how to make her famous apple pie. She showed me how to make the flaky crust from scratch, patiently guiding me through each step until the pie was golden brown and bubbling with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples.

It was moments like these that inspired me to continue exploring new recipes and pushing myself to try new dishes. And so, as the rice pudding bubbled away on the stove, I felt a sense of connection to my grandmother and all the women who had come before me, each one passing down their culinary knowledge and love of food.

After the rice pudding had cooked to creamy perfection, I carefully spooned it into ramekins and placed them in the refrigerator to chill. The anticipation of the final step – the caramelized sugar crust – was almost unbearable.

As the rice pudding cooled, I prepared the sugar topping, sprinkling a thin layer over each ramekin before setting them under the broiler. I watched with bated breath as the sugar melted and caramelized, transforming into a golden crust that crackled under the heat.

The smell of caramelized sugar filled the kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of vanilla and rice. I couldn't wait to dig into the Rice Crème Brûlée and taste the fruits of my labor.

When it was finally time to serve the dessert, I carefully removed the ramekins from the oven and placed them on the table. The sugar crust shimmered in the soft light, inviting me to take the first bite.

As I cracked into the caramelized sugar with my spoon, the creamy rice pudding beneath was revealed, warm and comforting. The flavors of vanilla and sugar danced on my tongue, creating a perfect harmony of sweetness and richness.

I couldn't help but smile as I took that first delicious bite, savoring the memories of my grandmother and the joy of sharing a special dish with friends. In that moment, I knew that this recipe for Rice Crème Brûlée would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

And so, as I continue to cook and explore new recipes, I always remember the sense of anticipation I felt that warm summer day when I first discovered this delightful dessert. It serves as a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.