Include in Print View:

Arroz con Leche Recipe: How to Make The Best Traditional Rice Pudding at Home

Arroz con Leche

Few desserts evoke the warmth of home quite like Arroz con Leche. This creamy, cinnamon-infused rice pudding has been a staple in many households for generations. Whether you first tasted it as a child at your grandmother’s table or discovered it in a cozy café, one thing is certain: this dish embodies comfort and nostalgia.

What makes it so special? Beyond its simplicity, it is a recipe that connects cultures. From Spain to Latin America, each region adds its unique twist to this beloved dish. Today, you will learn how to make at home, ensuring a rich, creamy texture and an authentic flavor that captures the essence of this timeless dessert.

What is Arroz con Leche?

Arroz con Leche is a sweet rice pudding made by simmering rice in milk, sugar, and spices until thick and creamy. While the dish has Spanish roots, variations exist across Latin America, each with distinct ingredients and preparation methods.

Unlike other rice puddings, Arroz con Leche stands out because of its smooth texture, rich dairy base, and the subtle warmth of cinnamon. Some versions use condensed milk for extra sweetness, while others incorporate citrus zest for a refreshing note.

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 70  C
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: $  5
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

A creamy and comforting traditional rice pudding infused with cinnamon and vanilla, Arroz con Leche is a beloved dessert with Spanish roots and Latin American charm. Perfect warm or chilled, it brings nostalgic flavors and creamy richness to your table.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup White rice (rinsed)
  • 4 cups Whole milk (warm)
  • 2 cups Water
  • ½ cup Sugar
  • 1 Cinnamon stick (whole)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest (optional)
  • ½ cup Condensed milk (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Rinse rice to remove starch.
  2. 2
    Bring 2 cups of water to a boil with a cinnamon stick.
  3. 3
    Add rice and cook on medium until water is almost absorbed.
  4. 4
    Lower heat, add warm milk and sugar gradually, stir often.
  5. 5
    Simmer for 30–40 mins until creamy.
  6. 6
    Remove cinnamon stick, stir in vanilla and condensed milk (if using).
  7. 7
    Serve warm or chilled with optional lemon zest or ground cinnamon.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Serving Size 1 cup

Amount Per Serving
Calories 250kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5g8%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 15mg5%
Sodium 60mg3%
Potassium 180mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 38g13%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugars 18g
Protein 6g12%
Vitamin A 300 IU
Vitamin C 1 mg
Calcium 150 mg
Iron 0.8 mg
Vitamin D 50 IU
Vitamin E 0.3 IU
Vitamin K 2 mcg
Thiamin 0.15 mg
Riboflavin 0.3 mg
Niacin 1.2 mg
Vitamin B6 0.1 mg
Folate 20 mcg
Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg
Biotin 3 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 0.3 mg
Phosphorus 90 mg
Iodine 18 mcg
Magnesium 20 mg
Zinc 0.6 mg
Selenium 7 mcg
Copper 0.1 mg
Manganese 0.3 mg
Chromium 2 mcg
Molybdenum 5 mcg
Chloride 100 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Arroz con Leche
Read it online: https://www.spontaneousrecipes.com/recipe/arroz-con-leche/
Samantha Doe
Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Samantha, a full-time food blogger, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.