Creamy Arroz Con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding) Recipe
Arroz Con Leche is a classic creamy Mexican rice pudding made with tender rice simmered in a mixture of whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk, flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, and optionally studded with plump raisins. This comforting dessert can be served warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for extra warmth and aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
Milk Mixture
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or half and half)
Sweeteners & Flavorings
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
To Serve
- Ground cinnamon (for serving)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Cook the Rice: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, cinnamon stick, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally but gently to avoid breaking the grains, for about 30 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Add Milk and Flavorings: Stir in the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and raisins if using. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer to Thicken: Return the mixture to a low simmer and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the pudding sit to thicken further. Serve warm or chilled. Before serving, sprinkle generously with ground cinnamon for extra flavor and aroma.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch for a creamier texture without clumping.
- Be gentle when stirring the rice to avoid breaking the grains.
- Adjust sugar according to sweetness preference, especially since sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness.
- Raisins add a nice texture contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
- Arroz Con Leche can be served warm for comfort or chilled as a refreshing treat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Keywords: Arroz con Leche, Mexican rice pudding, creamy rice dessert, cinnamon rice pudding, traditional Mexican dessert
