Every so often, we create a dessert that feels like a small masterpiece — simple ingredients combined in a way that surprises and delights. These Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups are one of our favorite inventions. At the heart of the idea is the contrast between textures and tastes. We take our version of traditional rice pudding — soft, creamy, and gently sweet — and serve it in delicate cups made entirely of melted dark chocolate. As a final touch, we top each one with a preserved cherry and a small spoonful of the cherry syrup. What you get is a dessert that looks elegant, tastes nostalgic, and delivers rich flavor in every bite. We’ve fine-tuned every element to reflect our style and inspiration.
Why Choose Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups?
Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups offer something unique — a playful twist on classic rice pudding, presented in an eye-catching way. The dark chocolate cups add depth and a subtle bitterness that balances the mild sweetness of the rice pudding. The cherry on top is more than just decoration; it adds richness and a soft acidity, while the syrup brings shine and extra indulgence. Every spoonful becomes a combination of creamy rice, smooth chocolate, and sweet fruit. These cups are convenient to serve and easy to portion, making them ideal for gatherings or individual treats. We love how refined they look while remaining approachable and homemade.
Ingredients
1. For the chocolate cups:
- 150 g dark chocolate (chopped)
- 6 silicone or paper cupcake molds
2. For the rice pudding:
- 100 g short-grain rice (washed)
- 500 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 small piece of lemon peel (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3. For the topping:
- 6 cherries from cherry preserve
- 2 tablespoons syrup from cherry preserve
How to Prepare Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups
Begin by making the chocolate cups. Melt the dark chocolate gently over a double boiler or in short microwave bursts, stirring until smooth. Spoon a layer of melted chocolate into each mold and use the back of the spoon or a brush to spread it evenly along the bottom and sides. Place the molds in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens completely. If the layer seems too thin, repeat the coating step once more for sturdier cups.
While the chocolate sets, prepare the rice pudding. In a saucepan, combine the rice and milk. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens — about 25–30 minutes. Add the sugar, lemon peel, and vanilla extract during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir to blend the flavors, then remove from heat. Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then chill it in the fridge for at least one hour. The texture should remain creamy but not overly runny.
Once the rice pudding is chilled and the chocolate cups are firm, carefully remove the cups from their molds. Spoon the rice pudding into each chocolate shell, filling to the top. Place one cherry on each cup and gently spoon a bit of the syrup over it. The syrup should slightly drip over the edges, adding both shine and contrast to the presentation. Arrange the filled cups on a flat plate or tray and store them in the fridge until serving.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups are best served chilled for clean texture and appearance. Present them on a neutral-toned plate to highlight their color contrast — deep brown, creamy white, and glossy red. They work beautifully on dessert tables, holiday trays, or even as part of a plated course. Because they’re already portioned, they’re also ideal for serving without mess or extra prep. You can add a small mint leaf next to the cherry for a decorative accent, or leave them as they are for a clean, minimalist look.
What Makes These Cups Special?
There’s something deeply satisfying in the blend of traditional comfort with creative presentation. The chocolate shell offers a break from the usual rice pudding dish, turning it into something festive and layered. The flavor of the rice — neutral but rich — makes it the perfect base for the boldness of the dark chocolate and the syrupy cherry. We think these cups stand out because of their structure. You get soft and creamy inside, a crisp shell outside, and a juicy finish on top. That combination makes every bite balanced and engaging.
Variations and Creative Twists
You can easily adjust the chocolate type — milk or white chocolate work just as well, depending on your taste. The rice pudding itself can be flavored with cinnamon, orange zest, or cardamom for variety. If you don’t have preserved cherries, substitute with fresh cherries in syrup or use another fruit preserve like plum or fig. For a nutty version, add crushed pistachios or almonds over the top. You can also shape smaller mini cups if serving for larger groups or make a single large version in a tart mold and slice it to serve.
Final Thoughts on Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups
Chocolate Rice Cherry Cups combine humble ingredients with visual charm and layered flavor. They’re a celebration of what can happen when we use familiar components in a thoughtful way. These treats are memorable, both in taste and appearance. They are easy to customize, simple to serve, and lovely to look at. Whether you prepare them for guests or just for yourself, they always feel like something special. For more ideas like this one — elegant, original, and deeply enjoyable — be sure to browse our Sweet Inspirations collection and keep the creativity going in your kitchen.
Discover more sweet and creative dessert ideas in the handmade collection featured just below.