Creamy Latin Comfort: Arroz Con Leche Recipe for Sweet Souls
Creamy, sweet, and utterly comforting, this arroz con leche recipe brings a delightful touch of Latin American tradition to your dessert table.
rice pudding has long been a cherished delicacy that warms hearts and sparks memories of childhood kitchens.
Generations of home cooks have perfected this simple yet magical dessert, blending rich milk, tender rice, and delicate spices into a heavenly treat.
Cinnamon and vanilla dance through each spoonful, creating a symphony of flavor that transports you to sun-drenched regions where this dish originated.
The recipe transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious dessert that feels like a warm embrace.
Every bite promises a nostalgic journey through culinary heritage, inviting you to savor a classic comfort food that never goes out of style.
Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible sweet indulgence that connects generations through its delectable simplicity.
Steps for Mexican Rice Pudding
Step 1: Prepare Rice Base
In a medium saucepan, combine:Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and cover.
Let the rice simmer gently for about 15 minutes until it absorbs most of the water and becomes tender.
Step 2: Transform Into Creamy Pudding
Pour in the following ingredients:Stir everything together thoroughly.
Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately lower to a gentle simmer.
Continue cooking, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Let it bubble softly for 25-30 minutes until the liquid thickens and becomes wonderfully creamy.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
You have two delightful serving options:Optional toppings like ground cinnamon, raisins, or a sprinkle of extra sugar can make this traditional Mexican dessert even more delicious.
The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools, creating a luscious, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
Tips for Authentic Rice Pudding
Rice Pudding Twists and Takes
Ways to Serve Mexican Rice Pudding
Storing Rice Pudding Leftovers
FAQs
Arroz con leche is the classic Mexican name for this sweet rice pudding, loved across Latin America.
Long-grain white rice works best, but you can also use medium-grain rice for a creamier texture.
Yes, Mexican rice pudding is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Stir frequently and use low heat to prevent burning, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Mexican Rice Pudding Creamy Traditions
Mexican Rice Pudding Ingredients
Base Ingredients:Dairy and Sweeteners:Optional Toppings: Print
Arroz Con Leche Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Creamy Colombian arroz con leche delights dessert enthusiasts with its rich, comforting blend of rice, milk, and cinnamon. Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen dance on your palate, inviting pure culinary bliss.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Liquid Base:
- 2 1/2 cups water
Seasoning and Toppings:
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional)
- Raisins (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, merge water, rice, cinnamon sticks, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for approximately 15 minutes until rice absorbs liquid.
- Gently incorporate milk and sugar into the cooked rice mixture. Elevate heat to create a gentle boil, then lower temperature and allow to simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent scorching.
- Monitor the consistency, ensuring the pudding thickens and becomes creamy. Remove cinnamon sticks during this process.
- Once the texture transforms into a luxurious, velvety pudding, transfer to serving dishes. Enjoy warm immediately or refrigerate for 2 hours to create a chilled dessert.
- Optional: Garnish with ground cinnamon, raisins, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of condensed milk before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Swap white rice for brown rice to boost fiber and create a nuttier flavor profile.
- Use plant-based milk like almond or coconut for a dairy-free version that keeps the creamy texture.
- Control sugar levels by using alternative sweeteners like honey or stevia for a healthier dessert option.
- Enhance the traditional recipe by adding vanilla extract or raisins during the final simmering stage for extra depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 266
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 112 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Nathaniel Brooks
Founder & Recipe Developer
Expertise
Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling
Education
Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques.
Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.