Baked Apple Rice Pudding

Baked Apple Rice Pudding Recipe - A Delicious and Healthy Dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 70 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Baked Apple Rice Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting textures of rice pudding with the sweet and tangy flavors of apples and dates. This recipe is a modern twist on traditional rice pudding, incorporating egg substitutes and egg whites for a lighter version, while still maintaining the creamy, indulgent feel of the classic dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet end to a family dinner, this dessert is sure to please both adults and children alike.

History

Rice pudding has been a staple dessert in many cultures around the world for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to Asia, where rice was first cultivated. The dish made its way to Europe in the Middle Ages, where it was often used as a stomach remedy due to its soothing texture. The addition of apples and dates gives this recipe a modern and Western twist, combining traditional ingredients with flavors that are beloved in contemporary cuisine.

Ingredients

0.33 cup egg substitute
2 cups pared and cored apples, finely chopped (2 medium)
1.5 cups cooked white rice
0.5 cup pitted dates, snipped
0.25 cup sugar
0.5 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted margarine, softened
1 tsp vanilla
2 egg whites
0.25 tsp cinnamon

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the egg substitute, apples, rice, dates, sugar, cinnamon, margarine, and vanilla.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold them into the rice mixture.
Transfer the mixture into a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) casserole or souffle dish.
Sprinkle cinnamon on top. Place the casserole in a pan filled with 1 inch of very hot water.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 70 minutes.
Serve the dish warm or chilled. Optionally, garnish with fresh apple slices dipped in lemon juice.

Nutrient analysis of 1 serving:

1 starch/bread exchange
1 fruit exchange
185 calories
4 g protein
6 g fat
31 g carbohydrates
42 mg sodium
0 cholesterol

Variations

Consider adding other dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a different flavor profile. For a richer pudding, replace the egg substitute with whole eggs, and for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of margarine.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture, use a short-grain rice such as Arborio, as it becomes creamier when cooked. Ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks to give the pudding a light, airy texture. When folding the egg whites into the rice mixture, do so gently to retain as much air as possible. For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the apples before adding them to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This pudding can be served warm or chilled, depending on preference. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add texture and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pudding in a water bath ensures gentle cooking, preventing the eggs from curdling and helping the pudding to cook evenly. This technique is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, ensure that the vanilla extract and any other added ingredients are gluten-free. Brown rice can be used instead of white for a whole-grain option, though this will alter the texture slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

This pudding can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If serving chilled, simply take it out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Serve individual portions in elegant glasses or small bowls, garnished with fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a visually appealing dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet dessert wine or a cup of strong coffee makes an excellent accompaniment to this pudding, balancing its sweetness and richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Apple Rice Pudding contains approximately 185 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dessert option, perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake but still want to indulge in a sweet treat.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Apple Rice Pudding contains 31 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The carbohydrates come from a combination of natural sugars in the apples and dates, as well as from the white rice and added sugar. This makes it a good source of quick energy, though those monitoring their sugar intake should be mindful.

Fats

Each serving of this pudding contains 6 grams of fat, which primarily comes from the unsalted margarine. Using unsalted margarine helps control the sodium content, but for a healthier option, you could substitute it with a plant-based margarine or even a small amount of coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

Proteins

The dish provides 4 grams of protein per serving, coming from the egg substitute and egg whites. While not a high-protein dish, it contributes to the daily protein intake, making it a satisfying dessert or snack.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples and dates are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. These contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dessert, supporting heart health and immune function.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, soy, and dairy. However, it does contain egg, so it is not suitable for those with egg allergies or vegans.

Summary

Overall, Baked Apple Rice Pudding is a moderately healthy dessert option that balances indulgence with nutritional benefits. It offers a good mix of carbohydrates for energy, a moderate amount of fats, and a small contribution to daily protein needs, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the fruits.

Summary

Baked Apple Rice Pudding is a versatile and delightful dessert that combines the comforting texture of rice pudding with the natural sweetness of apples and dates. With its relatively low calorie count and nutritional benefits, it's a guilt-free treat that can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my mother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and tattered scraps of paper, a faded piece caught my eye. It was a recipe for Baked Apple Rice Pudding, written in elegant cursive handwriting that was unmistakably my grandmother's.

I had never heard of this particular dish before, but something about it intrigued me. The combination of sweet apples, creamy rice pudding, and warm spices sounded like the perfect comfort food. I knew I had to give it a try.

I carefully read through the recipe, taking note of the ingredients and instructions. It seemed relatively straightforward, but there were a few steps that I was unfamiliar with. I decided to call my grandmother and ask her about it.

When I mentioned the recipe to her, she let out a soft chuckle. "Ah, the Baked Apple Rice Pudding," she said fondly. "That was one of my mother's signature dishes. I remember watching her make it when I was just a little girl."

She went on to explain the process to me, sharing her own memories of helping her mother in the kitchen. The secret, she said, was to use only the freshest apples and to simmer the rice pudding slowly until it was thick and creamy.

Armed with my grandmother's guidance, I set out to recreate the Baked Apple Rice Pudding in my own kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients I needed – apples, rice, sugar, milk, eggs, and spices – and got to work.

As I peeled and sliced the apples, the kitchen filled with their sweet aroma. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through each step as I cooked the rice pudding on the stovetop. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafted through the air, mingling with the rich, creamy smell of the pudding.

Once the rice pudding was thick and creamy, I carefully layered it with the sliced apples in a baking dish. I sprinkled a little more cinnamon on top for good measure, then popped it in the oven to bake.

As the pudding baked, the sweet scent of apples and spices filled the kitchen. I could hardly wait for it to be done. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the timer dinged, and I pulled the dish out of the oven.

The Baked Apple Rice Pudding was a sight to behold – golden brown and bubbling around the edges, with tender chunks of apple peeking through the creamy rice. I couldn't resist taking a spoonful right then and there, savoring the warm, comforting flavors that reminded me of my grandmother's kitchen.

I knew that I had stumbled upon a treasure of a recipe – one that had been passed down through generations and held a special place in my family's culinary history. I couldn't wait to share it with my own loved ones, passing on the tradition of the Baked Apple Rice Pudding to future generations.

And so, every time I make this dish, I am reminded of that warm summer day when I discovered the recipe in my mother's old recipe box. It's a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to bring back memories of loved ones long gone, and to create new traditions for the future.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Baked Apple Rice Pudding, I raise my spoon in a silent toast to my grandmother, whose love of cooking and dedication to preserving family recipes has inspired me to do the same. And as I take that first bite, I know that I am continuing a legacy that stretches back through the generations – one delicious dish at a time.