Rice pudding is one of those comfort foods that my family really enjoys throughout the year, but especially at Christmastime. One Norwegian tradition we keep in our home is to serve rice pudding on Christmas Eve. An almond is hidden in one person’s pudding, and the lucky person who gets it, gets a marzipan pig! (Much like the German tradition of hiding a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree – another tradition of ours!) It’s a fun way to create memories, and we get to enjoy eating this yummy dessert at the same time!

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• a mixture of ground cinnamon and sugar
• Reddi Whip or light cream (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees (F.)
2. Combine eggs, milk, rice, sugar, salt, and vanilla in a bowl and mix well.
3. Bake in an 11×7 baking dish for 20 minutes.
4. Remove from oven. Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Stir well.
5. Return to oven and bake for another 25 minutes.
6. Remove from oven. Put into individual serving dishes. Chill well in the refrigerator.
7. Before serving, sprinkle the top with cinnamon sugar. You may also top with Reddi Whip or a little bit of light cream.

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

Praise God! Let’s eat!
Shandy

Be sure to visit Shandy’s personal blog Aprons ‘n Pearls for crafts, recipes, homekeeping tips & more!