Mary Berry Rice Pudding Recipe

Mary Berry's Classic Rice Pudding recipe is a traditional British dessert beloved for its creamy texture and comforting taste. This dish is perfect for cold evenings or whenever you're in the mood for a nostalgic treat. Here's a summary of how to create this heartwarming dessert, inspired by Mary Berry's approach.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Mary Berry's Rice Pudding is renowned for its simplicity and the rich, creamy flavor it delivers, making it a timeless classic. The pudding consists of tender grains of rice enveloped in a lush, sweetened milk mixture, lightly spiced with nutmeg to add depth to its flavor.

Cultural or Historical Context

Rice pudding has been a staple in British households for centuries, appreciated for its comforting warmth and versatility. It is often served with a dollop of jam or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance its flavor. Mary Berry's version, as featured on her BBC2 series, "Mary Berry Everyday," celebrates this tradition with a recipe that emphasizes ease and comfort.

Ingredients List

• Butter, for greasing the dish
• 75g of pudding rice
• 900ml of full-fat milk for a rich flavor (semi-skimmed can be substituted with a mix of milk and cream)
• 1 heaped tablespoon of caster sugar
• ½ teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg (optional but recommended)

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven and greasing a wide-based ovenproof dish.
2. Place the rice in the dish, heat the milk separately (without boiling), and then pour it over the rice. Add sugar and mix.
3. Bake for an initial period, then stir, sprinkle with nutmeg if using, and bake for a longer duration until the pudding develops a golden skin on top and is soft and creamy underneath.

Storage and Reheating

This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave, adding a little milk if it's too thick.

Nutritional Information

A serving of rice pudding contains approximately 280 calories, with a balance of carbs, fats, and protein. It's a hearty dessert that offers comfort and satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use skimmed milk? Full-fat milk is recommended for its creaminess, but you can use semi-skimmed with a bit of cream.
• How can I prevent a skin from forming on top? A skin is traditionally part of the pudding's appeal, but you can cover the dish with foil if you prefer it without.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, rice pudding is naturally gluten-free.

For those seeking a taste of British comfort food, Mary Berry's Rice Pudding recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity, warmth, and sweetness. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a spoonful of your favorite jam, it's a dessert that evokes the coziness of home.

Original recipe by Mary Berry, as featured in her book and BBC2 series "Mary Berry Everyday". For a more detailed recipe, please refer to Mary Berry's cookbooks or official recipe postings​​​​​​.