Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe

If you have a soft spot for creamy, comforting desserts with a touch of warmth and sweetness, then this Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe is going to become your new best friend. This classic treat is like a warm, cozy hug in a bowl—perfectly cooked rice bathed in fragrant milk, sweetened just right, with subtle hints of cinnamon and citrus that awaken every bite. Whether you prefer it served warm on a chilly evening or chilled for a refreshing afternoon delight, this simple yet soulful recipe brings a taste of tradition straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the few ingredients fool you—each one plays a starring role in making this dessert irresistible. From the creamy milk that softens the rice to the fragrant cinnamon and bright citrus peel, these essentials come together to create the magic of the Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe.

• 1 cup rice (medium-grain, such as Arborio or Calrose): This type of rice cooks up tender and creamy, perfect for absorbing flavors and creating that luscious texture.
• 4 cups whole milk: The rich, creamy milk offers the perfect base, giving the pudding its indulgent feel and mild sweetness.
• 1 cup water: Helps start the rice cooking process gently before the milk is added.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish without overpowering, balancing the cinnamon and citrus hints beautifully.
• 1 cinnamon stick: Infuses a warm, fragrant spice throughout the cooking process for that classic Spanish flair.
• Peel from 1 lemon or orange (avoid the white pith): Adds lively citrus notes that brighten every spoonful.
• 1 pinch salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for topping): Sprinkled on at the end for an inviting aroma and inviting finish.

How to Make Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe

Step 1: Rinse and Prepare the Rice

Start by giving the rice a quick rinse under cool water—this step removes excess starch and helps prevent the pudding from becoming gummy. Drain it well so you have a clean base to work with.

Step 2: Simmer the Rice with Water and Aromatics

In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, cinnamon stick, citrus peel, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the rice absorb most of the water—this usually takes around 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cook Until Creamy

Next, pour in the whole milk and reduce the heat to maintain a slow, gentle simmer. Stir frequently to keep the rice from sticking to the bottom and to encourage it to release its starches, thickening the pudding. Cook uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes until the rice is tender and the texture is rich and creamy. This part is where the magic really happens.

Step 4: Sweeten the Pudding

Now, sprinkle in the granulated sugar and keep stirring for a few minutes to dissolve it completely. This method ensures a smooth, evenly sweet pudding that’s never grainy.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the pot from the heat and fish out the cinnamon stick and citrus peel. Let the pudding rest for about 5 minutes; it will continue to thicken slightly, making it perfect to serve.

Step 6: Serve Warm or Chill

You can enjoy this Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe warm right away or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing cold dessert. Don’t forget to sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for that final cozy touch.

How to Serve Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of ground cinnamon is classic and perfect, but you can also add a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or even a few plump raisins for a little extra texture and sweetness. Fresh berries on top add a lovely contrast, especially if serving chilled.

Side Dishes

Arroz con Leche is fabulous on its own, but if you want to round out the experience, try pairing it with a light, fruity salad or some crisp biscotti for dipping. These accompaniments complement the creamy richness while adding fresh or crunchy notes to every spoonful.

Creative Ways to Present

Use pretty glass jars or ramekins to showcase individual servings. For a fun twist, try layering the rice pudding with fruit compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serving it in small portions makes it feel extra special, perfect for parties or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from this Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The pudding thickens as it cools but stays deliciously creamy for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Although freezing rice pudding isn’t typically recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze it if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and thaw slowly in the fridge overnight. Expect a slightly different consistency upon thawing, but the flavors remain just as delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if the pudding has thickened too much to bring back that silky creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

While medium-grain rice like Arborio or Calrose is best for that creamy texture, you can use short-grain rice as well. Avoid long-grain rice because it tends to stay too firm and won’t absorb the milk properly.

Is it necessary to use whole milk?

Whole milk provides the richest flavor and creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% or even plant-based milks like oat or almond milk. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste might be slightly different.

Can I add raisins or other dried fruit?

Absolutely! Adding raisins is a traditional option for Arroz con Leche. Soak them in warm water or a bit of rum beforehand if you want them plump and flavorful.

How long does it take to make Arroz con Leche?

The entire process takes about 40 minutes, mostly spent simmering the rice slowly to reach that perfect creamy consistency.

Is Arroz con Leche served warm or cold?

Both are delicious! Serving it warm feels cozy and comforting, while chilling the pudding makes it a refreshing treat on warm days. You can’t go wrong either way.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly heartwarming about making and sharing a good batch of this Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding) Recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary day into a special moment. Give it a try—you might just find that this sweet, creamy dish becomes a beloved staple in your dessert rotation as it has in mine.

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