This rice pudding with apple sauce is a comforting dessert that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Using no added sugars makes it a healthier choice while still pleasing your sweet tooth. Ideal for family meals or as a cozy treat on chilly evenings, this dish brings together creamy rice and the warmth of cinnamon, complemented by the deliciousness of apple sauce. It’s a dish that both kids and adults will love, making it a staple for everyday cooking.

Why This Recipe Is Helpful

• Quick to prepare, this rice pudding can be ready in about 30 minutes.
• It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cold, perfect for any time of the day.
• With no added sugars, it’s a lighter option that allows the natural sweetness of the apple sauce to shine.

Best For

This rice pudding is great for families looking for a nutritious dessert that appeals to all ages. Those who enjoy comforting, warm desserts will especially appreciate it.

Be Careful If

This recipe contains dairy, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if managing sugar intake.

Ingredients

• 1 liter (4 cups) milk
• 220 grams (1 cup) rice pudding
• 300 grams (1 ¼ cups) unsweetened apple sauce
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 pinch of salt

Ingredient Notes

• Milk: You can use whole, skim, or plant-based alternatives, though texture may vary.
• Rice Pudding: If unavailable, short-grain rice can be substituted, but cooking times may need adjustment.
• Apple Sauce: Homemade apple sauce is great for a fresher taste, but store-bought works just as well.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Bowls for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Milk: In a medium saucepan, bring the milk and a pinch of salt to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Add Rice: Stir in the rice pudding. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer.
3. Cook the Rice: Allow the rice to swell and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking. It should become creamy and thick.
4. Incorporate Apple Sauce: Once the rice is cooked and creamy, fold in the unsweetened apple sauce gently.
5. Season: Sprinkle cinnamon into the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
6. Serve: Ladle the pudding into serving bowls. You can serve it warm or allow it to cool in the fridge for a chilled dessert.

Pro Tips

• Stir frequently to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan and cooks evenly.
• Adjust the cinnamon according to your taste; adding a touch more can enhance the flavor.
• If the pudding becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Lighter Swaps

• Using almond or oat milk can provide a lighter version that is dairy-free but may change the overall creaminess.
• For a lower-calorie option, consider reducing the amount of apple sauce slightly.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to stir regularly can lead to sticking and burning at the bottom of the pan.
• Not allowing enough time for the rice to cook properly can result in a gritty texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this rice pudding alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced dessert. It also pairs well with a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if necessary.

Nutrition Estimate

• Calories: 170
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 29 g
• Fat: 3 g

Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Various
Course: Dessert
Calories: 170

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this rice pudding vegan?
Yes, by using a plant-based milk alternative and ensuring that the rice pudding does not contain any dairy.

How can I enhance the flavor of this pudding further?
Consider adding vanilla extract or a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

Can I freeze leftover rice pudding?
While it can be frozen, the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

This rice pudding is not just easy to make but also a delightful way to enjoy a sweet treat without any added sugars. Its comforting flavor and creamy texture make it a wonderful dessert option for any day of the week.

Print Recipe

Rice Pudding with Apple Sauce

A comforting and simple rice pudding that uses no added sugars, making it a healthier dessert choice while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Various

Keyword: Apple Sauce, comfort food, Healthy Dessert, No Added Sugar, Rice Pudding

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 170kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 liter milk You can use whole, skim, or plant-based alternatives.
• 220 grams rice pudding Short-grain rice can be substituted.
• 300 grams unsweetened apple sauce Homemade is great for a fresher taste.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adjust according to taste.
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions

Preparation

• In a medium saucepan, bring the milk and a pinch of salt to a gentle boil over medium heat.
• Stir in the rice pudding. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer.
• Allow the rice to swell and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
• Once the rice is cooked and creamy, fold in the unsweetened apple sauce gently.
• Sprinkle cinnamon into the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
• Ladle the pudding into serving bowls. Serve warm or allow it to cool in the fridge for a chilled dessert.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if necessary.