Rice Cereal and Fruit Pudding
A Smooth and Sweet Treat
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with your baby with this Rice Cereal and Fruit Pudding. It’s a wholesome, creamy dish that combines the gentle textures and flavors ideal for babies’ palates, ensuring a nutritious and enjoyable eating experience.
Age
6+ Months
Difficulty
Easy
This recipe requires minimal skills.
Total time
20 minutes
Servings
Makes about 3-4 servings
Dietary Needs
Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice cereal (baby rice powder or finely ground rice)
- 1 cup water, breastmilk, or formula (240ml) for cooking
- 1/2 cup pureed fruit (such as apple, pear, banana, or mango)
Equipment
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Cereal: In a small saucepan, mix the rice cereal with 1 cup of water, breastmilk, or formula. If you’re using water, you might opt to add breastmilk or formula later to add nutrients and flavor.
- Cook the Mixture: Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency.
- Cool the Cereal: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cereal cool slightly. If the mixture is too thick, you can thin it with a little extra water, breastmilk, or formula.
- Add Fruit Puree: Once the rice cereal has cooled to a safe temperature, stir in the fruit puree until well combined.
- Serve: Check the temperature before feeding it to your baby. The pudding should be warm but not hot.
Remember, when introducing new foods to your baby, it’s crucial to monitor for any signs of allergies or intolerances. Introducing one new food at a time can help identify any potential issues. If using formula or breastmilk, consider the added nutritional benefits and choose what aligns best with your feeding practices.
Feeding Tips
- Offer small spoonfuls and allow your baby to pace the feeding.
- Introduce one new fruit at a time to monitor for any allergic reactions.
- As your baby grows, you can vary the texture by adding small, soft chunks of fruit.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
Please note that the following is an estimate based on generic ingredients. Actual nutritional values may vary.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Protein | 1.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | Varies with fruit |
| Fat | Varies with milk |
| Sodium | Low |
| Vitamin A | Varies with fruit |
| Vitamin C | Varies with fruit |
| Calcium | Varies with milk |
| Iron | Varies with cereal |
Notes
- Ensure the rice cereal is finely ground to prevent any choking hazards.
- Choosing various fruits over time helps expose your baby to different flavors and nutrients.
- Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby’s diet.
Conclusion
Rice Cereal and Fruit Pudding is a fantastic way to introduce your baby to new textures and flavors while ensuring they receive essential nutrients for growth and development. This simple, versatile recipe can be adapted to suit your baby’s taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a staple in your homemade baby food repertoire. Enjoy this special time of discovery and bonding with your little one through the joy of eating.
