As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Warm, creamy, and irresistibly nostalgic, rice pudding has a timeless charm that delivers comfort in every spoonful. This recipe sweetens the deal with a swirl of caramel apples, lending a delightful hint of autumn coziness to a dessert you can enjoy all year long.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked short-grain rice (such as Arborio)
- 4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for an extra-creamy texture)
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter for the apples
Instructions
Begin by preparing the pudding base. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps keep the texture smooth and prevents stickiness. In a saucepan, combine the milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently stir in your rinsed rice and, if you’d like an extra-rich consistency, add the tablespoon of unsalted butter.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a soft simmer. Stir regularly to prevent sticking, keeping an eye on the texture as it thickens. After about 20 minutes, the rice should be tender and the pudding will have a velvety, slightly loose consistency (it will continue to thicken as it cools). Remove from heat when the desired texture is reached.
While your rice cooks, prepare the caramel-apple topping. In a small skillet, melt the tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples, then stir in the brown sugar. Cook the apples for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and develop a caramel-like sauce. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, adding a hint more brown sugar if desired.
When both components are ready, spoon the creamy rice pudding into bowls. Top each serving with a generous ladleful of caramelized apples for that extra dose of cozy sweetness. You can sprinkle a touch of cinnamon on top for an inviting finish.
This recipe is a treat for everyone, from those reminiscing about old-fashioned desserts to families looking for a satisfying but gentle sweet treat. If you’re limiting your sugar intake, reduce the sugar in the rice or skip the brown sugar for the apples. For a dairy-free option, coconut or almond milk substitutes beautifully. Whether you keep it basic or elevate it with extra spices and toppings, this rice pudding will surely leave you feeling comforted and content.
