Apricot Creme

Description
Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 1/2 cups dried apricots, diced and cooked
 * 2/3 cup sugar, divided
 * 1/4 cup apricot brandy
 * 2 cups cooked rice
 * 2 cups milk, divided
 * 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
 * 1/4 cup water
 * 2 eggs, slightly beaten
 * 1/8 teaspoon salt
 * 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
 * 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions
Combine apricots, 1/3 cup sugar and brandy. Marinate about 1 hour.

Cook rice, 1-1/2 cups milk and 1/3 cup sugar until thick and creamy. Soften gelatin in water; stir into hot rice. Blend eggs with remaining 1/2 cup milk; add salt. Stir into rice; cook over low heat, stirring, 2 to 3 minutes. Cool.

Fold in whipped cream, apricots and marinade. Spoon into dessert dishes. Top with nuts.