Glorified Rice: A Sweet, Creamy Midwestern Classic That Deserves a Comeback
If you grew up in the Midwest or attended a church potluck or family picnic, chances are you’ve tasted the creamy, fruity delight known as Glorified Rice. This old-fashioned dessert salad combines fluffy rice, whipped cream, crushed pineapple, and maraschino cherries into a sweet, comforting dish that blurs the line between side and dessert — and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
While it may not win points for flash or complexity, Glorified Rice is the kind of feel-good, nostalgic dish that brings people together, one spoonful at a time. And the best part? It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.
What Is Glorified Rice?
Glorified Rice is a classic “dessert salad” that became popular in the upper Midwest, particularly in states like Minnesota and North Dakota. Often served at potlucks, church suppers, and holiday tables, it’s a creamy mixture of:
Cooked white rice
Whipped cream (or whipped topping)
Crushed pineapple
Maraschino cherries
Sometimes mini marshmallows or gelatin for extra texture
The result is sweet, fluffy, and fruity — like a tropical twist on rice pudding, chilled and served cold.
Ingredients
1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
1 cup heavy whipping cream or whipped topping
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Glorified Rice
Cook the rice: Prepare 1 cup of white rice and let it cool completely (this is key for the right texture). Leftover rice works great here!
Whip the cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. If using store-bought whipped topping, skip this step and gently fold it in later.
Mix it all together: Gently fold in the cooled rice, drained pineapple, cherries, and marshmallows (if using) until evenly combined.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Serve cold: Spoon into bowls or cups, and optionally garnish with extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut for fun.
Variations to Try
🍓 Add fruit: Swap pineapple for mandarin oranges, strawberries, or fruit cocktail.
🌈 Use flavored gelatin: Add a touch of strawberry or cherry gelatin mix for color and tang.
🥥 Tropical twist: Add shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
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