Custardy Rice Pudding with Cherry Compote: A Decadent Treat

Indulge in the velvety smoothness of creamy rice pudding topped with a vibrant cherry compote, making for a delightful dessert experience. This classic comfort food is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to your taste buds, ensuring a delectable treat every time.

Ingredients:

For the Rice Pudding:

- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)

For the Cherry Compote:

- 1 pound fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

Preparing the Rice Pudding:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the cream mixture to the cooked rice and stir well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Making the Cherry Compote:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cherries have softened and the juices have thickened.

Assembling the Dessert:

1. Divide the rice pudding into dessert bowls or ramekins.
2. Top with the warm cherry compote.
3. Garnish with ground cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired.

Serving:

Custardy rice pudding with cherry compote can be served warm or chilled. It is a versatile dessert that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries. Enjoy it as a sweet treat after dinner, a comforting snack, or even a breakfast delight.

Tips:

- For a richer flavor, use brown rice instead of white rice.
- Add a touch of almond or coconut extract to the rice pudding for a hint of extra flavor.
- If the cherry compote is too thick, add a splash of water or cherry juice.
- For a healthier version, use unsweetened almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream.