Best Easy Arroz con Leche Recipe

Creamy Mexican rice pudding with cinnamon and raisins is the ultimate comfort dessert. This family-favorite treat is a warm, sweet, nostalgic classic enjoyed across generations.

Cook 60 min Difficulty EASY 240 kcal
#Mexican dessert #comfort food #rice pudding #vegetarian
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • long-grain white rice 0.75 cup
  • whole milk 4 cups
  • water 2 cups
  • raisin 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • sugar 0.66 cup
  • cinnamon stick 1 piece
  • vanilla extract 1 tsp
  • salt 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 42 g 70%
Protein 5 g 8%
Fat 5 g 22%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    In a large saucepan, combine water, rice, and the cinnamon stick. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add milk, sugar, raisins, and salt to the partially cooked rice. Stir thoroughly and bring mixture back to a gentle simmer.

  4. 4

    Cook uncovered on low heat for 35–40 minutes, stirring frequently—especially near the end—to prevent sticking and to develop a creamy texture.

  5. 5

    Once the pudding is thickened and the rice is tender, remove from heat. Discard cinnamon stick, stir in vanilla extract, and let the pudding cool for several minutes before serving warm or chilled.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Arroz con Leche recipe?
The core ingredient is long-grain white rice, which provides the essential creamy texture and mouthfeel that defines Arroz con Leche. Combined with whole milk, sugar, and cinnamon, the rice absorbs flavors and creates the signature pudding base.
Q. How do I prevent the pudding from sticking or burning during cooking?
Maintaining a low heat throughout the simmering process and stirring frequently, especially in the last 20 minutes, is essential. This step (see recipe step 4) ensures even cooking and helps produce that classic creamy consistency without scorching the bottom.
Q. What gives Arroz con Leche its classic warm flavor?
A cinnamon stick simmered with the rice infuses a gentle spice throughout the pudding, while vanilla extract added at the end enhances aroma and overall depth. Together, these seasonings—plus plump raisins—create the nostalgic, comforting flavor Arroz con Leche is loved for.
Q. How many calories and carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each 180-gram serving of this recipe contains about 240 kcal, with 42g of carbohydrates—about 70% of the total caloric content. It's a warm dessert that's rich in comforting carbs, with moderate fat and protein.
AI 채팅 아이콘