Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of this Apple Rice Pudding recipe, perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting dessert. Made with tart Granny Smith apples, creamy white rice, cinnamon, and toasted breadcrumbs, this dish combines sweet and savory textures in every bite. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly dessert that’s ideal for holidays, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.

This recipe features simple ingredients like Jasmine rice, raisins, and a touch of milk to create a creamy consistency, while the golden-brown breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re looking for a way to use leftover rice or searching for a unique apple dessert, this pudding is sure to impress.

Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and sweetened just right, it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Learn how to make this easy baked Apple Rice Pudding and enjoy the classic combination of apples and cinnamon in a whole new way!

Ingredients:

4 Tbsp unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing the casserole dish)
1/2 cup Panko crumbs (plain dry breadcrumbs)
1 1/2 lbs Granny Smith apples (about 4 medium, peeled, cored, and diced into 1/2-inch cubes)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 cups cooked white rice (such as Jasmine, from 2/3 cup uncooked rice; see instructions below)
1/4 cup raisins (white or brown)
3 Tbsp milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Casserole Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13x2-inch casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Toast the Breadcrumbs:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter bubbles and begins to brown slightly, stir in the Panko breadcrumbs. Toast while stirring constantly until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside to avoid burning.

3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the cooked rice and raisins to the mixture. Reserve 2 tablespoons of toasted breadcrumbs for the topping and fold the remaining breadcrumbs into the apple and rice mixture. Drizzle the milk over the mixture and stir until well combined.

4. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the reserved breadcrumbs over the top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes or until the apples are tender.

5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this warm and comforting dessert on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Comfort Food: A cozy blend of warm, tender apples and creamy rice pudding with a touch of cinnamon.
Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep time.
Versatile Dessert: Great for any season, but especially comforting during fall and winter.
Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Tips

Use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice may become too soft when baked.
For even cooking, dice the apples uniformly to about 1/2-inch pieces.
Don’t skip toasting the breadcrumbs—it adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Sweeteners: Substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Fruits: Try adding dried cranberries, chopped dates, or fresh pears for variety.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk.
Spices: Add nutmeg or cloves for an extra warm spice profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes! Jasmine, Basmati, or Arborio rice work well, but you can also try brown rice for a nuttier flavor.

2. Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea for the ultimate cozy treat.