Traditional Arroz con Leche Recipe – Authentic Mexican Rice Pudding
Arroz con Leche, or Mexican Rice Pudding, is a beloved dessert that brings comfort and warmth to any table. This traditional recipe combines the rich creaminess of whole and evaporated milk with the aromatic touch of cinnamon. Whether served warm or chilled, this classic treat is sure to delight both young and old.
Table of Contents
The Best Arroz con Leche Recipes
Notes on Ingredients
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful dessert. The combination of whole milk and evaporated milk gives the pudding its creamy texture, while the cinnamon adds a fragrant depth that is quintessentially Mexican.
- White Rice: Use uncooked white rice for the best texture.
- Whole Milk & Evaporated Milk: These two types of milk create the perfect creamy consistency.
- Cinnamon Stick & Ground Cinnamon: The cinnamon stick infuses the rice with flavor, while a sprinkle of ground cinnamon adds the finishing touch.
- Sugar: Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
How to Make Arroz con Leche
Start by bringing water and a cinnamon stick to a boil. The cinnamon will release its color and flavor, creating a fragrant base for the pudding. Once the water is infused, add the rice and cook it until tender, allowing it to absorb the water completely.
Next, gradually stir in whole milk and evaporated milk, followed by sugar. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and the sugar dissolves completely. The result is a luscious, creamy pudding that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Serve with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top.
How to Serve Arroz con Leche
Arroz con Leche can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm for a cozy dessert on a cool evening, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat on a hot day. Garnish each serving with a light dusting of ground cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
How to Store Arroz con Leche
Store any leftover Arroz con Leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
FAQs About Arroz con Leche
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but the texture will be different, and the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
Can I substitute the whole milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut milk, but the flavor and consistency will vary from the traditional recipe.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar according to your taste. Start with ¾ cup and adjust as needed.
The Best Arroz con Leche Recipes
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- ½ cinnamon stick
- 2 ¼ cups uncooked white rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 cups evaporated milk
- 1 ¼ cups white sugar
- 2 pinches ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine water and cinnamon stick in a saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil and cook until cinnamon releases its color and flavor, about 5 minutes. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
- Gradually add whole milk to rice, then evaporated milk. Stir in sugar. Cook uncovered until sugar is dissolved and mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Serve warm or cold. Sprinkle each portion with ground cinnamon.
