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Creamy Apple Cinnamon Rice Pudding

Transform your kitchen into a cozy haven with the warm, spiced aroma of apple cinnamon rice pudding. This comforting dessert combines tender grains of rice with sweet apples and a hint of cinnamon, enveloped in a creamy, rich custard.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 4 Servings

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paring knife and cutting board
  • Serving bowls

Ingredients
  

For the Rice Pudding

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups whole milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free version)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Apples

  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apples

  • Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until the apples are tender and fragrant.
  • Tip: Opt for apples that balance tartness with sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.

Cook the Rice

  • In the same saucepan, stir in the Arborio rice, coating it with the buttery apple mixture. Add the whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Simmer the Pudding

  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pudding should thicken to a creamy consistency, with the rice tender and full of flavor.

Combine and Serve

  • When the rice pudding is ready, fold in the sautéed apples gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Serve warm in individual bowls—or chill in the refrigerator if you prefer it cold.

Notes

Pro Tips for Creamy Apple Cinnamon Rice Pudding:
  • Use cold milk to avoid curdling while cooking.
  • If your pudding is too thick, add a splash more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
  • Garnish with extra cinnamon or chopped walnuts for added crunch.
  • For a richer flavor, consider using coconut milk in place of whole milk.
  • Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.