Apple and Rice Cake

Apple and Rice Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the creamy texture of rice pudding with the sweet and tart flavor of apples. This dish is not only comforting but also versatile, making it a wonderful addition to any meal or occasion. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that anyone can try at home!

Ingredients

• For the US:

  • 1 cup small-grain rice (200 g)
  • 4 cups whole milk (1 liter)
  • 3/4 cup sugar (150 g)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 Golden apples (about 300 g)
  • 3.5 tablespoons butter (50 g)
  • Zest of one untreated lemon
  • 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • A pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar to serve

• For the European Metric:

  • 200 g small-grain rice
  • 1 liter whole milk
  • 150 g sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 Golden apples
  • 50 g butter
  • Zest of one untreated lemon
  • 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • A pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar to serve

Directions

1. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, combine the small-grain rice and whole milk. Add the natural vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the rice absorbs the milk completely. This should take about 20-25 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool.

2. Prepare the apples: While the rice is cooling, peel the Golden apples, remove the core, and cut them into small cubes.

3. Mix the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted butter and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.

4. Combine ingredients: Incorporate the cooled rice and apple cubes into the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients without breaking the apple pieces.

5. Prepare the puff pastry: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the puff pastry to fit a 24 cm (9-inch) round cake mold. Gently press the pastry into the mold, ensuring that it covers the base and sides evenly.

6. Fill the mold: Pour the rice and apple mixture into the lined puff pastry shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the mold for about 15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a serving plate, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 12g

Cooking Tips and Tricks

1. Use Arborio rice: For a creamier texture, consider using Arborio rice, which is traditionally used for risotto. It will make your cake even more indulgent.

2. Swapping fruits: If you want to experiment, try substituting Golden apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully.

3. Add spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the rice mixture for an extra layer of warmth and depth of flavor.

Possible Variations

1. Gluten-free option: Instead of using puff pastry, create a crust using crushed gluten-free graham crackers mixed with melted butter. Press the mixture into the base of your cake mold before adding the filling.

2. Vegan version: Swap out the eggs for a combination of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and replace the butter with coconut oil. Use almond milk in place of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative.

This Apple and Rice Cake is not just a decadent dessert but also a comforting dish that many will love. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find it’s perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply a cozy night in. Enjoy!