Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade Arroz con Leche, a classic Latin American rice pudding infused with cinnamon and lemon. This creamy dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a taste of tradition in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup short-grain rice (such as Arborio or Bomba)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 strip lemon peel (about 2–3 inches)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Optional Toppings: honey, fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries), toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low, and continue to simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel. If using, stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream.
- Let the rice pudding cool slightly before serving.
- Sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving.
- Optional: add honey, fresh fruit, or toasted coconut flakes as desired.
Notes
• Variations: For a richer flavor, use a combination of whole milk and evaporated milk, or add a pinch of ground cardamom. For a vegan version, substitute with plant-based milk.
• Tips: Stir the mixture frequently while simmering to achieve a creamy texture and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Avoid boiling the mixture rapidly; keep the heat at a gentle simmer.
• Serving: Serve warm or chilled. Garnish with additional cinnamon, honey, fresh fruit, or toasted coconut flakes.
• Intolerances/Allergies: This recipe contains dairy. For lactose intolerance, use lactose-free or plant-based milk alternatives. For dairy allergy, avoid milk or cream and use plant-based options. Always check specific allergies and adapt ingredients.
• Adjustments: Adjust the sugar level to your taste preference. If the pudding is too thick, add more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer longer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American, Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Arroz con Leche, Rice Pudding, Latin Dessert, Mexican Dessert, Spanish Dessert, Creamy Dessert, Cinnamon Dessert, Homemade Rice Pudding, Easy Dessert, Traditional Recipe, Comfort Food, Sweet Treat