Nutty Brown Rice Pumpkin Delight
This Nutty Brown Rice Pumpkin Delight combines the earthy flavors of brown rice with the creamy richness of pumpkin puree to create a dessert that’s both wholesome and indulgent. The nuttiness of the brown rice complements the sweet and spiced notes of pumpkin, while the addition of dried cranberries and crunchy pecans introduces delightful textures. Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this festive treat is perfect for autumn gatherings or any special occasion, inviting everyone to savor its warm flavors and cozy aroma. Enjoy this comforting dessert warm or chilled, and make it your new favorite fall indulgence!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
2% low-fat milk
2 cups (none)
sugar
1/4 cup (none)
pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon (none)
brown rice
1/2 cup (rinsed)
pumpkin puree
1/2 cup (none)
dried cranberries
1/4 cup (chopped if large)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
vanilla ice cream
as needed (for serving)
pecans
to taste (chopped finely for serving)
ground cinnamon
to taste (for dusting)
Instructions
1
Rinse the brown rice: Place the rice in a mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water, stirring gently until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2
Prepare the milk mixture: In a heavy non-stick 2-quart pot over medium heat, combine the 2% low-fat milk, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat the mixture gently, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar without bringing it to a boil.
3
Cook the rice: Once the milk is warm, add the rinsed brown rice, and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low (setting 3 on my stove) and cover the pot. Allow the rice to cook for about 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the rice does not stick to the bottom and checking if more milk is needed.
4
Incorporate the pumpkin: Once the rice is tender and creamy, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the pumpkin puree, dried cranberries, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5
Serve: Spoon the warm pumpkin pudding into individual dessert bowls, and top each serving with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Finish with a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans and a light dusting of ground cinnamon.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nutty Brown Rice Pumpkin Delight?
It is a wholesome dessert that combines earthy brown rice, creamy pumpkin puree, warm spices, and crunchy pecans for a festive treat.
Can I use whole milk instead of 2%?
Yes, you can use whole milk for a richer flavor or even a dairy-free alternative like oat or almond milk.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always verify the labels on your specific spice blends and ice cream.
How long does it take to cook the brown rice?
The brown rice should be simmered in the milk mixture for approximately 50 to 60 minutes until it becomes tender and creamy.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter and the texture will be softer and less nutty than the original brown rice version.
What kind of pumpkin should I use?
It is best to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pre-sweetened pumpkin pie filling.
Can I substitute the dried cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute them with raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dates if you prefer.
How is this dessert served?
It is served warm in bowls, topped with vanilla ice cream, chopped pecans, and a light dusting of cinnamon.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use a plant-based milk and a vegan-friendly vanilla ice cream alternative to make this dish entirely vegan.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Certainly, walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be used as a crunchy topping.
Why do I need to rinse the brown rice?
Rinsing removes excess starch and any surface debris, ensuring the rice cooks with a better texture.
What if I don't have pumpkin pie spice?
You can substitute it with a mix of ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Can this dessert be eaten cold?
Yes, it can be served chilled as a cold rice pudding, though it is traditionally served warm.
What type of pot is best for cooking this?
A heavy non-stick 2-quart pot is ideal to ensure even heating and to prevent the milk from burning.
What should I do if the liquid levels get too low while cooking?
If the rice isn't tender yet but the milk is gone, simply stir in a small amount of extra milk or water.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey or maple syrup are great natural sweeteners that complement the pumpkin flavor well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweetness from the pumpkin and the ice cream topping make it very appealing to children.
Is the ice cream mandatory?
No, but the cold ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the warm pudding.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on the ingredient quantities, this recipe generally yields about 3 to 4 individual servings.
Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Yes, roast and mash fresh pumpkin until smooth before adding it to the cooked rice.
What texture should the finished dish have?
The dish should have a creamy, pudding-like consistency with slightly firm grains of rice.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine the milk, rice, and spices in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
Is this dessert healthy?
It is a relatively healthy choice as it uses whole grain brown rice and nutrient-dense pumpkin.
When is the best time to serve this?
It is a perfect festive treat for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or cozy winter evenings.
Can I add more spices?
Yes, feel free to add extra cinnamon or even a pinch of cardamom for more depth.
Do I have to chop the pecans?
Chopping them finely ensures you get a bit of crunch in every bite.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds a nice molasses flavor that works very well with pumpkin.
Is vanilla extract essential?
It adds a lovely floral note, but you can omit it if you do not have it on hand.
Can I prepare the rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the rice mixture in advance and reheat it before adding the final toppings.