Torta di Riso: A Delicious Italian Rice Cake Recipe

Torta di Riso, or Italian Rice Cake, is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of rice pudding with the texture of a cake. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a dessert, a sweet breakfast, or even a snack. From my own personal experience, it’s one of those recipes that brings smiles to everyone’s faces. So, let me show you how I make this wonderful treat.

What to Expect

When you cut into Torta di Riso, you’ll find a beautiful golden crust on the outside, with a soft and creamy texture on the inside. The flavor is sweet but not overwhelming, making it the perfect treat for any time of the day.

Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 200 per slice
• Cost of Ingredients: About $10
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Dessert
• Equipment Needed:
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • 9-inch round baking dish or cake pan
  • Baking parchment (optional)

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  Torta di Riso here

Ingredients

• 1 cup of Arborio rice
• 4 cups of whole milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 cup of raisins or dried fruit (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  Torta di Riso here

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake will bake evenly.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice and 2 cups of the milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the rice absorbs the milk and becomes tender, about 15-20 minutes. If you’re using dried fruit, you can add it at this stage.
3. Mix the Remaining Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 cups of milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and baking powder until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Once the rice has finished cooking and has cooled slightly, mix it into the egg mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Pour the Mixture: Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch!

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Torta di Riso is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk in place of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
• Fruity Twist: Feel free to add different fruits like blueberries or diced apples to change up the flavor.
• Nutty Flavor: For a richer taste, incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios.

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  Torta di Riso here

Tips

• Rice Texture: For a creamier texture, slightly undercook the rice as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Serving Suggestions: Torta di Riso is delicious served warm or chilled. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can also be frozen for up to a month.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the cake is too dry: Ensure the rice is cooked properly before adding it to the mixture. You may also want to add an extra splash of milk before baking.
• If the cake is too wet: This could mean it didn’t bake long enough, so make sure to check for a golden top and a clean toothpick before taking it out.
• Uneven baking: Rotate the pan halfway through the baking time to promote even cooking.

Nutritional Information (per slice)

• Calories: ~200
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 6g
• Sugar: 10g

So there you have it, a delightful recipe for Torta di Riso that’s easy to follow and customizable based on your preferences. Enjoy your baking adventure and impress your friends and family with this charming Italian dessert!