How to Make the Perfect Arroz con Leche
Mexican · Easy · 40 min · 6 servings
This creamy and comforting Mexican rice pudding is a beloved dessert that kids simply cannot get enough of. It is warm sweet and flavored with cinnamon making it the perfect cozy treat for children of all ages.
Why this recipe works
This Arroz con Leche recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 7g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon for garnish
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook Rice in Water
Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. Add rice to a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water and the cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until water is absorbed.
Step 2: Add Milk and Sugar
Pour in the whole milk and sugar and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium low heat stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Simmer Until Creamy
Continue cooking and stirring the rice mixture for 20 to 25 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy. The rice should be very soft and the mixture should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in vanilla extract. Serve warm or chilled in bowls sprinkled generously with ground cinnamon on top for a beautiful presentation.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- whole milk → coconut milk for a dairy free version with a tropical twist
- white sugar → condensed milk for an extra creamy and sweeter version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not stirring frequently enough which causes the rice to stick and burn on the bottom
- Adding too much heat causing the milk to scorch and giving the pudding a burnt flavor
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 7g protein, 48g carbs, 8g fat, 1g fiber.
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