Rice Pudding - Sophie's Favorite

This is so easy and satisfying.  Rice pudding with lots of vanilla and cinnamon.  The rice is creamy and still just a touch firm inside.  It’s a relatively quick dessert that’s perfect for a last minute sweet when unexpected dinner guests drop by.  Add a few strawberries or raspberries on top…just perfect.  Sophie suggested stirring in some chocolate chips at the end, but I still prefer the fruit and the plain vanilla creaminess. 

1 cup Arborio rice

4 cups low fat milk

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons vanilla

1/3 cup whipping cream

1 cinnamon stick

¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional tip from Sophie)

Simmer milk, rice and cinnamon stick in a medium sized saucepan over low heat.  Stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the rice is cooked through and soft but not mushy inside.  About 30 minutes.  During the last five minutes of cooking, remove cinnamon stick, stir in ground cinnamon, vanilla and cream (and chocolate if you go that route) serve warm.