
A historical dessert from The White House cook book; a comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home .. (1913). The custard and balls should be flavored with the same.
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
Wash two teacupfuls of rice and boil it in one teacupful of water and one of milk, with a little salt
if the rice is not tender when the milk and water are absorbed, add a little more milk and water
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when the rice is tender, flavor with vanilla, form it into balls, or mold it into a compact form with little cups
place these rice balls around the inside of a deep dish, fill the dish with a rich soft custard and serve either hot or cold
Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
Cooking rice with a 2:1 ratio of rice to liquid creates a sticky, moldable texture as the starch granules fully hydrate and release amylopectin, which acts as a natural binding agent. The milk's proteins and fat coat the rice grains, producing a creamy consistency that holds its shape when formed into balls. The contrast between the firm, starchy rice exterior and soft custard interior creates an appealing textural balance reminiscent of Victorian-era molded desserts.
The rice balls can be formed up to 1 day ahead, placed on a parchment-lined plate, covered tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerated. The custard can also be made 1-2 days ahead and stored separately in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving for best presentation.
Store assembled dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The rice will continue to absorb custard over time, softening the balls. For best texture, store components separately and assemble within 2 hours of serving.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
The rice balls can be formed up to 1 day ahead, placed on a parchment-lined plate, covered tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerated. The custard can also be made 1-2 days ahead and stored separately in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving for best presentation.
Store assembled dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The rice will continue to absorb custard over time, softening the balls. For best texture, store components separately and assemble within 2 hours of serving.