Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As the chill in the air settles in and the days grow shorter, a craving for something warm and comforting often stirs within me. One evening, while cozied up on the couch, I found myself dreaming of creamy desserts that evoke the spirit of winter indulgence. That s when I decided to whip up my Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits a dish that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of sweet maple and aromatic spices with the delight of tender, poached fruits.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the slow-cooked method that allows each ingredient to blend beautifully over time. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a decadent pudding that is not only comforting but also a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Imagine the delight of your loved ones as they dive into this creamy, luscious dessert, each spoonful reminiscent of warm winter nights filled with laughter and love. Ready to experience this indulgent treat? Let s dive into this delightful culinary adventure together!

Why will you love Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits?

Warmth and Comfort: This recipe brings the cozy essence of winter into your home, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet without the fuss.
Indulgent Creaminess: The rich blend of milk and heavy cream results in a pudding that is decadently smooth and satisfying.
Versatile Flavors: Customize your dessert by swapping in different fruits or spices, allowing you to make it your own each time.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve it warm during family gatherings, and watch it brighten everyone s day it s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Maple Spiced Rice Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding
Arborio Rice Provides a creamy texture when cooked slowly; can use other short-grain rice but may alter the final creaminess.
Milk Adds creaminess and richness; can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version, though it may change the flavor profile slightly.
Heavy Cream Enhances the richness of the pudding; replace with additional milk for a lighter version if desired.
Butter Adds flavor and richness; can be omitted for a dairy-free adaptation.
Maple Syrup Provides natural sweetness and a distinct flavor; honey or agave syrup can be used, but this will alter the overall flavor.
Vanilla Extract Elevates the overall flavor; using a vanilla bean can lend a more intense taste.
Spices (Cinnamon, Cardamom, Mixed Spice) Infuses warmth and depth into the pudding; feel free to customize based on your taste preferences.

For the Poached Fruits
Winter Fruits (e.g., Pears, Apples) Tender and sweet, these fruits complement the pudding beautifully; consider using seasonal varieties for the best flavor.
Sugar Enhances sweetness in the poaching liquid; adjust according to the natural sweetness of the fruits you choose to use.
Lemon Juice Adds a touch of acidity, balancing the sweetness; fresh is best for maximum flavor.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you re well on your way to creating a rich and comforting Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits!

How to Make Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits

1. Prepare the Cooker: Begin by setting up your Flavour Maker by Breville. Place the EasySear pan into the slow cooker base, ensuring everything is secure and ready to go.

2. Combine Ingredients: In the EasySear pan, mix together the milk, heavy cream, butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and your chosen spices. Stir well until fully combined, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

3. Add Rice: Gently add the Arborio rice to the mixture, stirring to ensure the rice is well-distributed and coated in the creamy concoction.

4. Cook Slowly: Cover the pan with its lid and set your cooker to the 2 setting. Allow it to cook for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is soft and the pudding has taken on a creamy texture.

5. Adjust Time if Needed: If after 60 minutes the pudding isn t quite creamy enough or the rice still feels firm, you can extend the cooking time up to 90 minutes based on your rice type.

6. Serve Warm: Once the pudding reaches that luxurious creaminess, serve it warm, optionally topping each bowl with tender poached fruits and a drizzle of extra maple syrup for that final touch of sweetness.

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits?

Creating the perfect dining experience means pairing delightful dishes that enhance each other s flavors.

• Warm Baked Apples: Tender, warm baked apples sprinkled with cinnamon bring out the sweet notes of the pudding, creating a harmonious dessert duo.
• Crispy Ginger Cookies: Their spicy crunch offers a wonderful textural contrast to the silky pudding, making every bite interesting and satisfying.
• Toasted Almonds: Adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pudding s creamy softness beautifully.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds extra indulgence, while its coolness offsetting the warmth of the rice pudding is simply divine.
• Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai enhance the flavors of the pudding, creating a comforting beverage that adds warmth to your meal.
• Refreshing Mint Salad: A light salad with fresh mint and citrus fruits offers a refreshing contrast and balances the richness of the dessert perfectly.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top elevates the sweetness, making the dish feel even more luxurious and indulgent.

Each of these pairings works beautifully with the warm, comforting flavors of the Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits, ensuring a delightful dining experience filled with joy and warmth.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings! You can prepare the pudding up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it fully, then allowing it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its creamy texture, stir in a splash of milk when reheating. The poached fruits can also be prepped ahead; simply poach them, let them cool, and store them in a separate container for up to 3 days. When it s time to enjoy your dessert, warm the pudding gently and serve topped with the delicious fruits you ll savor the same rich flavors with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits

Fridge: Store your maple spiced rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Serving Suggestion: Enjoy warm, especially topped with freshly poached winter fruits for a delightful experience that brings comfort and indulgence to your meal.

Variations & Substitutions for Maple Spiced Rice Pudding

Feel free to explore these variations that can take your rice pudding to new heights of flavor and texture!

• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess. The added texture enriches each bite!

• Fruit Swap: Replace poached winter fruits with a warm berry compote or stewed apples for a tangy twist. Each version brings its own unique charm to the dish.

• Spice It Up: Experiment with nutmeg or freshly grated ginger to add extra warmth and depth to the pudding. Your taste buds will thank you for this aromatic adventure!

• Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical flair that complements the maple syrup beautifully. It gives a subtle richness with a light coconut essence.

• Sweetness Variations: Swap maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for those with different sweetness preferences. Each alternative will provide its own flavor signature!

• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in cocoa powder or chocolate chips before cooking for a rich, chocolatey rice pudding. Pairing chocolate with the spices offers a decadent surprise!

• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright touch that balances the sweetness and adds a refreshing layer to the dessert.

• Creamy Alternative: For a lighter pudding, consider replacing heavy cream with more milk or using a plant-based cream. Each option offers a unique taste experience choose your favorite!

Expert Tips for Maple Spiced Rice Pudding

• Stir Occasionally: Make sure to stir the pudding a few times during cooking for even liquid absorption this prevents any sticking or uneven texture.

• Cooking Time Awareness: Cooking times can vary based on the type of rice you use; check for desired creaminess after 45 minutes to avoid overcooking.

• Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for pure maple syrup and fresh spices these elevate the richness of your Maple Spiced Rice Pudding significantly.

• Monitor Consistency: If the pudding seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk while stirring to reach your preferred creamy texture.

• Customize Wisely: Feel free to mix in different spices or fruits, but remember that these changes result in a different flavor profile, so proceed with your taste preferences in mind.

Maple Spiced Rice Pudding with Poached Winter Fruits Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right rice for my Maple Spiced Rice Pudding?
Absolutely! Arborio rice is your best bet for a creamy texture; its high starch content allows it to absorb liquids beautifully. If Arborio isn t available, you can use other short-grain rice varieties like sushi rice, but it may slightly alter the creaminess and final result.

How should I store leftover Maple Spiced Rice Pudding?
For storage, simply transfer the cooled pudding to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This way, it maintains its delightful flavor and texture, making it a quick indulgence for a cozy night in!

Can I freeze Maple Spiced Rice Pudding? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, portion the pudding into airtight containers and place them in the freezer. It can last for about 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.

What can I do if the rice pudding turns out too thick?
Very importantly, if your pudding ends up thicker than you d like, don t worry! Just stir in a bit of warm milk. Start with a tablespoon or two, and gradually add more until it reaches your desired creaminess. The warmth will help integrate the milk smoothly.

Does this recipe accommodate dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you re catering to a dairy-free diet, substitute both the milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk. For sweetness, use maple syrup substitute like agave or honey. Just keep in mind that the flavors will vary slightly, so adjust to your taste.

Can I add different fruits for the poaching?
Of course! The more the merrier! While winter fruits like pears and apples are perfect for poaching, feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits or even a berry compote for a fun twist. Just adjust the sugar in the poaching liquid to balance the sweetness based on what you choose!