Arroz con Leche Recipe: A Creamy and Delicious Classic

Arroz con leche, or rice pudding, is one very popular dessert found in many countries, especially Latin America, and Spain. This dish is creamy, sweet, and comforting, typically made with just rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Each region takes its own approach to the recipe, but the final result is always delicious.

This guide we’ll take you through a traditional arroz con leche recipe, variations, cooking tips, and frequently asked questions. You’re going to have all the tips you need to make the perfect dessert at home by the end!

What Is Arroz con Leche?

Arroz con leche means “rice with milk” in Spanish. It’s a sweet type of rice pudding, rich and creamy and gently spiced with cinnamon. Some versions include condensed milk to add sweetness; others add citrus zest or raisins for flavor.

This dish is a favorite throughout Latin America, Spain and the Philippines. There are many variations of arroz con leche as each culture puts its own spin on the dish, but the core ingredients are relatively uniform.

The ingredients for Arroz con Leche

To prepare a traditional arroz con leche you will need:

• 1 cup white rice (preferably short grain)
• 4 cups of whole milk
• 2 cups of water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (optional, for more sweetener)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Grated zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)
• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)
• Ground cinnamon for garnish

How to Make Arroz con Leche (Step-By-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Wash the rice in cold water to get rid of any excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
3. Stir in the rice and a cinnamon stick. Lower the heat and simmer until the rice takes up most of the water (10 minutes or so).

Step 2: Stir in the Milk and Sweeteners

1. Add the 4 cups of whole milk to the pan. Stir well.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add sweetened condensed milk now for added creaminess, if using.

Step 3: Simmer Until Thickened

1. Over low heat, with frequent stirring to avoid sticking.
2. Simmer the mixture for 20–30 minutes until the rice is soft and the pudding thickens.

Step 4: Add Final Ingredients

1. Add in vanilla extract, and citrus zest (if using).
2. Add raisins (optional) for added texture and sweetness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Take off the heat and allow to sit for a few minutes.
2. Serve warm or chilled, drizzled with ground cinnamon on top.

Variations of Arroz con Leche

Dairy-Free Version

Use coconut or almond milk instead of the whole milk for a lactose-free arroz con leche. [You can sweeten with maple syrup or brown sugar.]

Mexican-Style Arroz con Leche

Arroz con leche in Mexico is often flavored with sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk for an extra creamy dish.

Spanish-Style Arroz con Leche

More commonly, the dessert is thickened with egg yolks and seasoned with lemon zest in Spain.

Colombian Arroz con Leche

Colombians often mix in grated coconut for a tropical flair.

Puerto Rican Arroz con Dulce

In Puerto Rico, arroz con dulce is made with coconut milk and spices including cloves and nutmeg.

How to Make the Best Arroz con Leche

• Use short-grain rice — It absorbs the liquid well and creates a creamer-textured risotto.
• Stir often – Helps prevent rice from sticking and burning.
• Cook on low – Reducing on low allows for a strain-free silky texture.
• Modify sweetness — Add more or less sugar, to taste.
• Let it chill — The pudding will thicken as it cools.

How to Store Arroz con Leche

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in small amounts for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge, then reheat.
• Reheat: Heat in a pot with a splash of milk to re-creamy.

FAQ About Arroz con Leche

Q: Can I make arroz con leche with brown rice?

A: Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may have a different texture.

Q: What’s the best way to make arroz con leche thicker?

A: Simmer it longer or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with milk.

Q: Can I make arroz con leche in a slow cooker?

A: Yes! Cook on low for 4–5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Q: Why is my arroz con leche too dry?

A: It thickens as it cools, so add extra milk before serving.

Q: Is arroz con leche gluten-free?

A: Yes, rice and milk are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Arroz con leche is an evergreen dessert that is simple but so delicious. Whether you follow the original recipe or prefer to try various flavour combinations, this dish is sure to warm your belly and soul.

Make your virtual pilgrimage to Arroz con Leche and get a taste of tradition with every spoonful!