Arroz con Leche, or rice pudding, is a comforting dessert that brings back sweet memories of childhood. This creamy, rich dish combines tender rice with a luscious blend of milk, sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and vanilla.
Each spoonful is a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. It’s especially lovely when topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of whipped cream, adding a light and fluffy touch to the creamy base.
For an indulgent twist, serve your arroz con leche alongside Nutella Cookies. The rich chocolate hazelnut flavor beautifully complements the sweetness of the rice pudding, creating a truly irresistible dessert experience. Imagine dipping a warm cookie into your bowl of arroz con leche—it’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- Nostalgic Flavors: This dish is a wonderful reminder of family gatherings and cozy nights in.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert that impresses.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or chilled, making it perfect for any season.
- Great for Meal Prep: It keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Dive into this comforting arroz con leche recipe and let its creamy goodness warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings!
Arroz Con Leche Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring Cups
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 3-inch long cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and the cinnamon sticks over high heat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse the water with cinnamon flavor.
- Add 1 cup of uncooked white rice, bring back to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
- Stir in whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk, cooking uncovered over medium heat until thickened to your desired consistency, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve warm or cold, and sprinkle each portion with ground cinnamon.
Nutritional Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 515 kcal |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 52 mg |
| Sugar | 57 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
Variations that You Should Definitely Try!
1. Coconut Rice Pudding
Swap the whole milk for coconut milk for a tropical twist. This not only adds a lovely coconut flavor but also a creamy texture. You can also stir in some shredded coconut during the final cooking phase for added texture and flavor.
2. Cardamom and Pistachio
Add 1-2 teaspoons of ground cardamom to the mixture after adding the milks for a fragrant, aromatic twist. Top the finished pudding with chopped pistachios for a delightful crunch and a pop of color.
3. Chocolate Delight
Melt in ½ to 1 cup of chocolate (dark, milk, or white) after you’ve added the milks. This creates a rich, indulgent chocolate rice pudding that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. You can even garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
4. Almond Joy
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of almond extract along with the milks for a subtle almond flavor. Finish with toasted almond slivers and shredded coconut for a delightful take inspired by the classic candy bar.
5. Berry Bliss
Fold in fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or strawberries, during the final cooking stage. They’ll add a burst of flavor and color, making the pudding not only tasty but visually appealing. You can also swirl in a berry compote just before serving for a fruity twist.
6. Maple and Walnut
Replace the sweetened condensed milk with maple syrup for a natural sweetness and a hint of flavor. Stir in some chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture, and finish with a drizzle of maple syrup on top before serving.
7. Espresso Rice Pudding
For a coffee-infused dessert, add 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder when you mix in the milks. This gives the pudding a rich, deep flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. Garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans for an extra treat.
8. Citrus Zest
Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the pot when you’re infusing the cinnamon sticks. This will brighten the flavor profile and add a refreshing citrus note. For a special touch, garnish with a twist of citrus peel.
9. Nutty Spice
Incorporate ½ cup of ground hazelnuts or walnuts into the pudding while it thickens. The nuts add a wonderful texture and nutty flavor. Top with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg for an additional aromatic layer.
These variations allow you to put your personal touch on a classic dessert, giving you the flexibility to create different flavor profiles while keeping the comforting essence of rice pudding. Enjoy experimenting!