Imagine a dessert that wraps you in warmth, combines the creamy richness of rice pudding with the sweet, tender essence of baked apples, and transforms your kitchen into a haven of irresistible aromas. This Baked Apple Rice Pudding is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that promises to elevate your dessert game from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or when you simply need a soul-warming treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups milk
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Arborio rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
- Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size. Gently fold the diced apples into the rice mixture.
- Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent the top from burning.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the rice is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the pudding rest for 10-15 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve warm, optionally garnishing with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio rice is key for its creamy texture. Don't substitute with regular long-grain rice.
- Dice Apples Uniformly: Consistent apple cube sizes ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the pudding.
- Cover Initially: Aluminum foil helps retain moisture and prevents the top from burning too quickly.
- Watch the Final Browning: The last 10-15 minutes uncovered are crucial for achieving that gorgeous golden-brown top.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pudding to sit for 10-15 minutes helps it set and develop a more cohesive texture.
- Optional Enhancements: Experiment with toppings like toasted nuts, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
