Name: Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) Recipe
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 6 cups milk; 1 cup medium grain rice; ¼ cup white granulated sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; ¼ cup raisins; ½ cup Condensed Milk; 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Arroz con leche, or rice pudding, is a warm, creamy, and sweet traditional dish that's loved worldwide. This recipe brings out a beautiful blend of milk, rice, and cinnamon, infused with vanilla essence and sprinkled with raisins, for an alluring home-cooked dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) Recipe

The ingredients used in Arroz con Leche are fairly common, and you'll likely find them in your pantry. However, you might need to check for medium grain rice, which is ideal for this recipe due to its perfect balance between starchiness and firmness, allowing for a creamy yet not too mushy pudding. Additionally, look for pure vanilla extract for an authentic flavor. It is usually in the baking aisle of the supermarket.

Key Ingredients for Traditional Arroz con Leche: Rice Pudding

Milk: A central part of the recipe, it gives the pudding its smooth and creamy texture.

Medium grain rice: This variety maintains a slight chew in the finished dish, a signature aspect of traditional arroz con leche.

White granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the dish.

Ground cinnamon: Offers a subtle spiciness that complements the sweet flavors.

Pure vanilla extract: Provides an aromatic sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.

Raisins: Adds a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness in every bite.

Condensed milk: A sweet, creamy product that makes the rice pudding rich and luxurious.

Unsalted butter: Enriches the texture and adds a hint of savory to balance the sweetness.

One reader, Juana Ballinger says:

This arroz con leche recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a delightful treat. The touch of cinnamon and plump raisins add a perfect touch. It's a comforting dessert that brings back fond memories. I highly recommend trying this traditional rice pudding recipe!

Juana Ballinger

Techniques Required for Making Arroz con Leche

How to prepare the rice pudding: Combine the milk, rice, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and raisins in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and cook until thick and creamy, stirring occasionally.

How to incorporate the condensed milk and butter: Once the rice is soft and cooked through, mix in the condensed milk and butter until well combined and creamy.

How to serve the rice pudding: Portion the rice pudding into serving bowls, sprinkle with extra ground cinnamon and raisins, and serve immediately.

How To Make Arroz Con Leche Rice Pudding

As the name implies, this arroz con leche is made entirely of rice and made creamy and sweet with milk. This rice pudding is flavored with cinnamon as well.

Preparation:

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6cupsmilk
1cupmedium grain rice
¼cupwhite granulated sugar
2 tspground cinnamon
2tsppure vanilla extract
¼cupraisins(optional)
½cupcondensed milk(optional)
2tbspunsalted butter(optional)

Instructions

Combine the milk, rice, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and raisin in a large saucepan.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, mixing occasionally.
Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally while scraping the base and sides of the pan with a wooden spoon, until thick and creamy.
Once the rice is soft and cooked through, mix in the condensed milk and butter.
Pour the rice among serving bowls; sprinkle with extra ground cinnamon, and raisins. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 333.41kcal
Fat: 10.69g
Saturated Fat: 6.34g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.75g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.57g
Carbohydrates: 50.59g
Fiber: 1.55g
Sugar: 28.76g
Protein: 9.16g
Cholesterol: 32.44mg
Sodium: 104.53mg
Calcium: 292.65mg
Potassium: 381.15mg
Iron: 0.59mg
Vitamin A: 123.00µg
Vitamin C: 0.70mg

Crucial Technique Tips for Perfect Arroz con Leche

When preparing arroz con leche, it's crucial to stir the mixture occasionally while it's simmering. This not only prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning, but also helps to break down the rice grains, releasing their natural starches and creating a creamier texture in the final dish. Additionally, using a wooden spoon is recommended as it doesn't conduct heat and is gentle on the rice grains.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Traditional Rice Pudding

Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Use a rice cooker: Consider using a rice cooker to prepare the rice while you work on other components of the recipe.

Pre-measure ingredients: Pre-measure all the ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the rice is cooking, use that time to prepare the other components of the dish to save time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area organized to easily access ingredients and tools, making the process more efficient.

Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of cooking times and prevent overcooking or undercooking the rice.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and ingredients as you progress through the recipe to minimize clutter and save time during cleanup.

Use leftover rice: If you have leftover cooked rice, you can use it to make the arroz con leche, saving time on cooking the rice from scratch.

Substitute Ingredients For Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) Recipe

milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a rich and creamy texture to the rice pudding, while also infusing a subtle tropical flavor.
medium grain rice - Substitute with arborio rice: Arborio rice has a similar starchy texture that can create a creamy consistency in the rice pudding.
white granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the rice pudding.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients in the rice pudding.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a unique and fragrant flavor to the rice pudding, enhancing its overall taste.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can offer a tart and slightly sweet contrast to the creamy rice pudding.
condensed milk - Substitute with evaporated milk: Evaporated milk can provide a similar richness and creaminess to the rice pudding.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor and richness to the rice pudding, while also keeping it dairy-free.

Best Way to Present This Traditional Rice Pudding

Elevate the plating: When presenting the arroz con leche, focus on creating an elegant and sophisticated plating. Use delicate edible flowers or gold leaf to add a touch of luxury to the presentation.
Incorporate texture: Add a contrasting element to the dish by incorporating a crunchy element such as caramelized almonds or hazelnut praline. This will provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy rice pudding.
Utilize fine dining techniques: Consider using quenelle technique to shape the rice pudding into elegant, smooth ovals. This technique adds a refined touch to the presentation and showcases attention to detail.
Play with color: Introduce vibrant colors to the dish by garnishing with a drizzle of berry coulis or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. The pop of color will enhance the visual appeal of the dessert.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Ensure that the presentation is meticulously arranged, with each component thoughtfully placed to create a visually stunning dish.

Essential Tools for Making Arroz con Leche

Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
Wooden spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving food. It is made of wood to prevent scratching of pots and pans.
Serving bowls: Bowls used for serving food, typically with a wide opening and a flat bottom.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the volume of liquid or solid cooking ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure an amount of an ingredient, either liquid or dry, when cooking.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs and batter.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged holes used for shredding or grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
Strainer: A device used for separating solid matter from a liquid, typically used for draining cooked pasta or washing vegetables.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients, often with a wide opening and a flat bottom.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soup, stew, or sauce.
Knife: A tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged holes used for shredding or grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Rice Pudding

Let the arroz con leche cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled rice pudding to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the arroz con leche:
- Portion the cooled pudding into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion.
- Label the containers with the date and contents.
- Place in the freezer where it will keep for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen arroz con leche, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Reheat thawed or refrigerated pudding in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and some raisins before serving the reheated pudding.

How To Reheat Leftover Arroz con Leche

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover arroz con leche to a saucepan and add a splash of milk to loosen the consistency. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through and creamy. Add more milk as needed to achieve the desired consistency. This method allows you to easily adjust the texture and ensures even heating.
Microwave method: place the leftover rice pudding in a microwave-safe bowl and add a small amount of milk to prevent it from drying out. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the rice pudding to become gummy or burnt.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover arroz con leche to an oven-safe dish and add a small amount of milk to maintain the creamy texture. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the rice pudding halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is ideal for larger portions and results in a slightly thicker consistency.
Double boiler method: fill the bottom of a double boiler with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the leftover arroz con leche in the top portion of the double boiler and stir occasionally until heated through. Add a small amount of milk if needed to maintain the desired consistency. This gentle heating method prevents the rice pudding from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the arroz con leche frequently to prevent it from sticking or forming lumps. Taste and adjust the sweetness and spices, such as cinnamon or vanilla, if needed. Serve the reheated rice pudding warm, and garnish with additional cinnamon or raisins for added flavor and texture.

Interesting Facts About Arroz con Leche

Arroz con leche is a traditional dessert in many Latin American countries and is often served during special occasions and holidays.

Is Making Arroz con Leche at Home Cost-Effective?

This arroz con leche recipe is highly cost-effective for households. With simple and affordable ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, it provides a delicious and satisfying dessert for the whole family. The use of pantry staples and minimal additional expenses make it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-10, making it an economical choice. The rich and creamy texture, combined with the warmth of cinnamon and vanilla, earns this recipe a solid 9/10 rating for its affordability and delightful taste.

Is Arroz con Leche Healthy or Unhealthy?

The traditional arroz con leche recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High in sugar: The recipe includes both white granulated sugar and condensed milk, which can significantly increase the overall sugar content of the dish.
High in fat: The use of whole milk, condensed milk, and unsalted butter contributes to a higher fat content, particularly saturated fat.
Low in fiber: White rice is used in this recipe, which is lower in fiber compared to brown rice or other whole grains.
Limited nutritional value: The recipe lacks fruits, vegetables, or other ingredients that could provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar by half or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk to decrease the saturated fat content
Replace half of the white rice with brown rice to increase the fiber content and add a nutty flavor
Include fresh fruits like diced apples, pears, or berries to the recipe for added nutrients and natural sweetness
Experiment with plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond or coconut milk, for a dairy-free option
Reduce the amount of condensed milk or replace it with a small amount of coconut cream for a healthier, tropical twist

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of arroz con leche that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some additional health benefits.

Editor's Thoughts on This Classic Rice Pudding Recipe

This traditional arroz con leche recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and comforting flavors. The combination of aromatic cinnamon, plump raisins, and rich condensed milk adds depth to the dish, while the creamy texture of the rice pudding is simply irresistible. The use of vanilla extract and butter enhances the overall richness, creating a truly indulgent dessert. The recipe's simplicity makes it accessible for home cooks, and the end result is a dish that is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.

Enhance Your Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon: Grill pineapple slices and sprinkle with cinnamon for a sweet and tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with the creamy arroz con leche.

Braised Pork Belly with Brown Sugar Glaze: Slow-cooked pork belly with a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze is the perfect savory complement to the rich and sweet arroz con leche.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Honey and Cinnamon: Roast butternut squash with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm and comforting side dish to enjoy alongside the arroz con leche.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Arroz con Leche

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This refreshing fruit salad is the perfect way to enjoy a variety of fruits in one dish. The honey-lime dressing adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the fruits.

Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef and a variety of root vegetables. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Appetizers and Entrées to Serve with This Rice Pudding

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with crispy slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This classic Italian dish is sure to impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry by sautéing thinly sliced beef with an assortment of colorful vegetables. Toss everything in a savory sauce and serve over steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) Recipe:

This traditional arroz con leche recipe has been passed down through generations, ensuring its authenticity and deliciousness. The combination of milk, rice, and cinnamon creates a comforting and creamy dessert that has stood the test of time. The addition of raisins and condensed milk adds a delightful sweetness, while the touch of vanilla extract and butter enhances the flavors. Trust in the rich cultural heritage and the expertise of this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delightful and satisfying dessert experience.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the arroz con leche?

The cooking time for arroz con leche can vary, but typically it takes about 30-40 minutes to cook until the rice is soft and the pudding has thickened.

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of rice, but keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary. I recommend using medium-grain rice for the best results.

Can I make arroz con leche ahead of time?

Absolutely! Arroz con leche can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Can I omit the raisins from the recipe?

Of course! If you're not a fan of raisins, feel free to leave them out. The recipe will still turn out delicious without them.

Is it necessary to use condensed milk in the recipe?

The condensed milk adds a rich and creamy texture to the arroz con leche, but if you prefer, you can omit it or use a substitute such as evaporated milk.