Swedish Christmas Rice Pudding, also known as “Risgrynsgröt,” holds a special place in Swedish holiday traditions. This creamy and comforting dessert is commonly served during Christmas festivities, particularly on Christmas Eve. The rich flavors of rice, milk, and warm spices make it a beloved treat for both children and adults alike. Swedish Christmas Rice Pudding is often enjoyed with a dollop of sweet fruit sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon, adding to its festive appeal.

The tradition of serving rice pudding during Christmas dates back several centuries in Sweden. Rice was considered a luxury ingredient in the past and was only affordable for special occasions. Rice pudding became a customary dish during Christmas celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and abundance for the coming year.

In Sweden, the Christmas season is centered around the celebration of St. Lucia, a festival of light and goodwill. It is believed that St. Lucia would bring light to the darkest time of the year, and rice pudding became a traditional food associated with this festive period. During the Christmas Eve dinner, a special bowl of rice pudding, called the “Christmas Porridge,” is prepared. It contains one hidden almond, and according to the tradition, the person who finds the almond in their serving will have good luck in the coming year.

Swedish Christmas Rice Pudding continues to be a cherished part of the holiday season in Sweden. Families gather together to enjoy this comforting dessert, often following the tradition of hiding an almond within the pudding. The anticipation and excitement of finding the hidden almond add an element of fun and mystery to the Christmas celebration.

PREP: 10 MIN.

COOK: 50 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: 9 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup water
• ½ cup uncooked long grain rice
• Dash of salt
• 4 cups milk
• ⅔ cup sugar, divided
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a heavy saucepan, combine water, rice, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low.
4. Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
5. Add the milk and ⅓ cup of sugar to the saucepan.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil once again.
7. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and the remaining sugar.
9. Gradually add 2 cups of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture, stirring continuously.
10. Return the egg-rice mixture to the saucepan while stirring constantly.
11. Cook and stir the mixture over low heat for 3-5 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 160°F (71°C).
12. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla.
13. Pour the pudding into a serving bowl.
14. Place the serving bowl with the pudding in the refrigerator for approximately 2 hours until it is chilled.
15. Just before serving, sprinkle the pudding with ground cinnamon.

Enjoy the creamy and comforting Swedish Christmas Rice Pudding as a delightful dessert during the holiday season. Whether you hide an almond within it or serve it with a fruity sauce, this traditional Swedish dish will bring warmth and joy to your Christmas celebrations.