Super Creamy Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche)
This super creamy rice pudding, known as Arroz con Leche, is a comforting dessert made with tender white rice, cinnamon, cloves, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. The combination creates an incredibly smooth, rich, and creamy texture.
Finished with a generous dusting of ground cinnamon, this classic rice pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled for a delicious homemade dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Extra creamy thanks to sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk.
- Infused with warm cinnamon and clove flavors.
- Made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Delicious served either warm or chilled.
- A comforting and satisfying homemade dessert.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: Not specified
- Cook Time: Not specified
- Total Time: Not specified
- Servings: Not specified
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients
- 3 measuring cups white rice
- 3 measuring cups water
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 to 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon, for dusting
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice with the Spices
In a pot, combine the white rice, water, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the water.
2. Add the Milks
Stir in the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. Keep the heat on low to medium and stir frequently to prevent the rice pudding from sticking to or burning on the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the Vanilla and Thicken
Add the vanilla extract and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes thick, rich, and very creamy.
4. Serve
Pour the rice pudding into serving bowls. Generously dust the top with ground cinnamon before serving.
Arroz con Leche can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Recipe Tips
- Stir frequently after adding the milk to help prevent the pudding from sticking to the bottom.
- Keep the heat low to medium while the pudding thickens.
- Do not skip the cinnamon and cloves, as they give the rice pudding its warm, aromatic flavor.
- Remember that the pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.
Variations
- Extra Cinnamon: Add more ground cinnamon on top for a stronger cinnamon flavor.
- Warm Serving: Serve immediately while the pudding is warm and creamy.
- Chilled Rice Pudding: Refrigerate and serve cold for a refreshing dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rice pudding in individual bowls or small dessert cups with a generous sprinkle of ground cinnamon. It is delicious both warm and chilled.
Storage
Refrigerator
Allow the rice pudding to cool, then cover and refrigerate. Enjoy it chilled or reheat it gently before serving.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat, stirring as needed. If the pudding has thickened considerably after refrigeration, it may need a little gentle stirring while warming to restore a creamy consistency.
Nutrition
Nutrition information will vary depending on the exact brands and quantities of evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk used, as well as the serving size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arroz con Leche?
Arroz con Leche is a traditional rice pudding made by cooking rice with milk and warm spices. This version uses evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk for an especially creamy texture.
Can I serve Arroz con Leche warm?
Yes. This rice pudding can be enjoyed warm immediately after cooking.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes. Arroz con Leche can also be chilled and served cold.
Why is this rice pudding so creamy?
The combination of evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk gives the pudding its rich, creamy consistency and signature sweetness.
What spices are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses cinnamon sticks and whole cloves while the rice cooks, then ground cinnamon is added on top before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Super Creamy Rice Pudding is a simple and comforting dessert with tender rice, fragrant cinnamon and cloves, and a rich combination of evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. Finish it with ground cinnamon and enjoy it warm or chilled for a delicious bowl of homemade Arroz con Leche.
