Pumpkin Rice Pudding

It’s that time of year again when pumpkins are everywhere, and the cozy, warm flavors of fall are calling. If you’re searching for a treat that embraces the season but keeps it healthy, you’re going to love this Easy Pumpkin Rice Pudding (Vegan & Gluten-Free)! This delightful dessert combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the creamy richness of coconut milk. Plus, it’s super simple to make, letting you enjoy the process without any fuss. Imagine a creamy bowl of pudding bursting with spices like cinnamon and ginger—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re curling up on the couch with a good book or hosting friends for a seasonal gathering, this pudding is a delicious way to indulge. And the best part? It’s vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible to most diets. Let’s get started, and I promise you’ll be loving every bite!

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Why This Recipe Works

Creating a beloved classic like rice pudding doesn’t have to be complicated. The combination of coconut milk and spices isn’t just comforting—it elevates this dish to something extraordinary. The richness from the coconut milk blends perfectly with the warm spices that remind us of fall.

Using brown rice gives this pudding a hearty texture, adding to its comfort-food status while also making it more wholesome. The process is simple and almost hands-off, letting you enjoy the cozy smell wafting through your kitchen without too much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Rice Pudding (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

This Easy Pumpkin Rice Pudding (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is naturally sweetened with maple syrup, balancing the pumpkin’s earthy flavor beautifully. Each spoonful is spiced to perfection, wrapping you in a warm blanket of flavor. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, making it a versatile dessert that fits any occasion, from cozy nights in to festive gatherings.

Furthermore, it’s a healthy dessert option that shines in fall but can brighten any day of the year. With all these great aspects, it’s easy to see why you’ll fall in love with this recipe.

Ingredients

To whip up this deliciousness, here’s what you need:
– ½ cup (95g) long-grain brown rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
– 2 (13.5-ounce) cans coconut milk
– ½ vanilla bean
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 whole clove
– 1 (⅛-inch thick) slice fresh ginger
– 1 2-inch piece of orange zest (removed with a vegetable peeler)
– ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
– ½ cup (160g) maple syrup
– ¾ cup (178g) pumpkin puree, canned or homemade

These ingredients blend beautifully, crafting a rich pudding that’s sure to please.

Preparing the Rice

Break Down the Rice

Start by breaking down the rice. You can either put it in a spice grinder or seal it in a sturdy zip-top bag. Then, using a rolling pin or something heavy, give it about eight good whacks. The goal is to break it up into smaller pieces without turning it into powder.

Infusing the Coconut Milk

Combine Ingredients

Now, grab a medium, heavy-bottomed pot. Into it, add your 2 cans of coconut milk. Cut the vanilla bean in half lengthwise; use the back of your knife to scrape the seeds into the pot, along with the pod itself.

Next, take a piece of cheesecloth and bundle up your cinnamon stick, clove, fresh ginger slice, and orange zest. Tie it securely with twine. Add your spice bundle, ground rice, fine sea salt, and maple syrup to the coconut milk and give it a good stir to combine.

Cooking the Pudding

Simmering

Bring your pot to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer away for 45-50 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally, checking for tenderness in the rice. The pudding should come together beautifully by the end.

Adding Pumpkin Puree

Incorporate Flavor

After your rice is tender, it’s time to stir in the pumpkin puree. Mix it thoroughly into the pudding and let it continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together while the mixture thickens just enough to hold a spoon.

Cooling and Serving

Final Touches

Now, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 10-20 minutes. Stir occasionally while it cools, which helps to keep it smooth and creamy. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this Easy Pumpkin Rice Pudding (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is perfect!

Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy this pudding plain, or for an extra special treat, top it with a dollop of whipped cream—coconut whipped cream keeps it vegan! Chopped nuts add a nice crunch, and a drizzle of maple syrup gives it just the right amount of sweetness.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your rice is adequately broken down for even cooking; if it’s too whole, it may not get tender in time.
• Keep an eye on the mixture while it’s cooking. Stirring helps to prevent sticking and burning, ensuring you achieve that perfect creamy texture.
• If you don’t have a vanilla bean, feel free to replace it with vanilla paste, which is convenient and still delicious.

Variations

Feel free to make this pudding your own! You can add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness and texture. If you’re craving more spice, consider substituting in nutmeg or cardamom for a fun twist.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! Store your pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk to keep it creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use white rice instead of brown?
Yes, you can! Just remember to adjust the cooking time since white rice cooks faster.

2. Is this pudding suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s great for preparing ahead of time, serving as a delightful breakfast or dessert.

3. Can I freeze this pumpkin rice pudding?
Yes! You can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

4. What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Agave syrup or another liquid sweetener works perfectly.

5. Does this recipe work with other types of milk?
You can experiment with almond or oat milk, though the flavor and texture will be different.

This Easy Pumpkin Rice Pudding is the perfect cozy dessert for any occasion. Its creamy texture and delightful spices will warm your heart while being a nutritious option that everyone can enjoy. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings to make it your own!

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