Go Back
Comfort foods hold a special place in our hearts and memories, often transporting us back to cherished moments spent around the dinner table with family and friends. These dishes not only satisfy our hunger but also nourish our souls, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Among the wide variety of comfort foods, rice pudding stands out as a classic dessert that combines simplicity with rich, creamy indulgence. Today, we invite you to explore a delightful twist on this timeless favorite: Cinnamon Apple Rice Pudding Cups.

Cinnamon Apple Rice Pudding Cups

Discover the heartwarming delight of Cinnamon Apple Rice Pudding Cups, a creamy dessert that marries tradition with a fresh twist. Made with Arborio rice, whole milk, and sweet apples, this dish captures the comforting essence of childhood memories. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg elevate its flavor, making every spoonful a nostalgic treat. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, these pudding cups are an inviting addition to any dessert table. Enjoy the journey of creating this deliciously satisfying dish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice)

4 cups whole milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/4 cup raisins or sultanas (optional)

Pinch of salt

Extra ground cinnamon, for garnish

Fresh apple slices, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Rice: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, 1 cup of whole milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a boil, lower the heat to low, cover with a lid, and allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the milk.

    Add the Remaining Ingredients: With the rice now tender, carefully stir in the remaining 3 cups of whole milk, the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Continue to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, allowing the mixture to thicken and achieve a creamy texture, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

      Incorporate Apples and Raisins: While your pudding thickens, place the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apple and sauté for around 5-7 minutes until they are slightly soft but still retain some structure. If you choose to include raisins, toss them in now, cooking for an extra minute while sprinkling a dash of cinnamon for enhanced flavor.

        Mix Everything Together: When your rice pudding has reached a creamy consistency, gently fold in the lightly sautéed apple and raisin mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the pudding.

          Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice pudding cool slightly before serving. Spoon the warm pudding into individual cups or bowls. For a chilled dessert, cover and place in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

            Garnish: Just before serving, adorn each cup with a light sprinkling of ground cinnamon and a few fresh apple slices for a beautiful and inviting presentation.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings