Contents
A creamy and comforting Romanian dessert, Gris Cu Lapte (semolina pudding), is made with milk, semolina, sugar, and vanilla, topped with cinnamon or sour cherry jam. It's quick, affordable, and nostalgic!
Ingredients
- 1 liter milk (whole milk or plant-based alternative)
- 30 g sugar (adjust to taste)
- 50 g semolina
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- Lemon zest (from one lemon, finely grated)
- Pinch of salt
- Cinnamon or sour cherry jam (for serving)
Instructions
- Pour the milk into a large pot and place it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the sugar, salt, lemon zest, and vanilla essence. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Slowly sprinkle the semolina into the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Lower the heat and continue whisking for 10-15 minutes until the pudding thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Once thickened, immediately pour into serving bowls as it will set quickly.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Top with cinnamon or sour cherry jam for a traditional touch.
- Enjoy warm or chilled! 😊🍮
Notes

A Taste of Childhood in Every Spoonful 🥄✨
Romanian semolina pudding, known as Gris Cu Lapte, is a beloved dessert that brings a wave of nostalgia to anyone who grew up enjoying it. This creamy and comforting treat has been a staple in many Romanian households for generations. The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity and affordability. Made with just a handful of basic pantry ingredients, it is a quick and easy recipe that delivers a deliciously creamy and subtly sweet delight. The light vanilla aroma, combined with the option of tangy fruit preserves or a dusting of cinnamon, makes it irresistible. One of the fondest memories for many is the anticipation of waiting for the pudding to cool—sneaking glances at the kitchen counter, eager to dig in. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl.💡 Expert Tips & Notes
✅ Butter or No Butter? Some variations include butter for extra richness, but traditional recipes often skip it. This pudding is already creamy without it! ✅ Sweetness Level: Depending on your choice of toppings, you may want to adjust the sugar level accordingly. ✅ Vanilla Variations: Vanilla essence, vanilla pods, or vanilla sugar all work perfectly for flavouring. ✅ Prevent Burning: Stir continuously while cooking to avoid the pudding sticking to the bottom of the pot. ✅ Quick Setting: The pudding will firm up fast once removed from heat, so be sure to transfer it to bowls immediately.❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I store leftover semolina pudding?
Leftover semolina pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s so delicious that chances are, there won’t be any leftovers! 😆Can I prepare this pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pudding can be made a few hours or even a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and add your toppings right before serving.What are some alternative toppings?
Besides the classic sour cherry jam and cinnamon, consider these delicious variations:- Fresh berries 🍓🫐
- Honey 🍯
- Roasted nuts 🌰
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce 🍫