Quinoa Pudding – A Wholesome Comfort Dessert Recipe
Introduction
Quinoa pudding is a creamy, wholesome dessert that’s perfect for any time you crave something comforting yet nutritious. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, it offers a delightful twist on traditional rice pudding with a nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup quinoa (85 g)
- 2 cups milk of choice (480 g) – almond, soy, coconut, or dairy
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (30–45 g), or other sweetener
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 g)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (1.5 g)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse quinoa under cold water in a mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain well to remove any bitterness.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat. Cover the saucepan slightly ajar and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the pudding has thickened to your liking.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a little more milk at this point.
- Step 6: Serve the quinoa pudding warm, or refrigerate it overnight for a chilled dessert. Top with extra cinnamon, fresh fruit, or nuts as desired.
Tips & Variations
- Try using coconut milk for a richer, tropical flavor.
- Swap maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
- Add raisins or chopped dried fruit during cooking for added texture and natural sweetness.
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra creaminess and crunch.
Storage
Store leftover quinoa pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture if it becomes too thick. It also tastes great served cold straight from the fridge.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make quinoa pudding vegan?
Yes, simply use a plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or coconut milk, and choose a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.
Is quinoa pudding gluten-free?
Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this pudding a good dessert option for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
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Quinoa Pudding – A Wholesome Comfort Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Quinoa Pudding is a wholesome and comforting dessert that’s naturally gluten-free and customizable with your choice of milk. Sweetened gently with maple syrup and infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla, it offers a creamy and nourishing treat perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup quinoa (85 g)
- 2 cups milk of choice (480 g) – almond, soy, coconut, or dairy
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (30–45 g), or other sweetener
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 g)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (1.5 g)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water using a mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove any bitterness. Drain thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix the rinsed quinoa, your choice of milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with the lid slightly ajar and allow to simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Thicken Pudding: Remove the lid entirely and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you prefer a creamier texture, add more milk gradually. Serve the pudding warm or refrigerate it overnight to enjoy cold. Optionally, top with extra cinnamon or fresh fruit for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Choose any milk type according to dietary preference or allergy, such as almond, soy, coconut, or cow’s milk.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey, agave nectar, or a low-calorie sweetener.
- For vegan preparation, use plant-based milk and maple syrup or other vegan sweeteners.
- Stirring frequently helps prevent quinoa from sticking to the pan and burning.
- Adjust thickness with milk to your liking—add more for creamier pudding or less for a firmer texture.
- This pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Keywords: quinoa pudding, gluten free dessert, wholesome dessert, healthy pudding, vegetarian pudding, dairy-free dessert option
