Name: Arroz con Leche (Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups water; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cinnamon sticks; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 4 cups milk; 1 cup granulated sugar; ground cinnamon; chopped nuts; raisins

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 2 reviews

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s both comforting and full of warm, nostalgic flavors, you’re in for a treat with this Arroz con Leche (Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding) Recipe. This classic Latin American favorite brings together tender rice, rich milk, and fragrant cinnamon in a creamy embrace that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it warm on a cozy evening or chilled on a sunny afternoon, this dish never fails to deliver smiles with every spoonful.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white bowl filled with creamy white rice pudding topped with a line of chopped light brown walnuts on the right side and two cinnamon sticks lying horizontally on the left side on top of a light brown cinnamon powder layer. In the background, a small white bowl with more chopped walnuts is slightly blurred on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Arroz con Leche (Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding) Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature creamy texture and warmly spiced flavor that makes this dessert unforgettable.

2 ½ cups water: The water gently softens the rice, starting the cooking process and infusing it with cinnamon.
1 cup long-grain white rice: Ideal for a creamy pudding without becoming mushy, thanks to its perfect starch content.
2 cinnamon sticks: These add a deep, aromatic cinnamon flavor that’s beloved in every bite.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all those rich flavors.
4 cups milk: The heart of creaminess, milk transforms the rice into luscious pudding.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that ties everything together without being overpowering.
Optional toppings like ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, or raisins: These add a delightful burst of texture and extra flavor to finish your dish.

How to Make Arroz con Leche (Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding) Recipe

Step 1: Simmer the Rice and Cinnamon

Begin by combining the water, rice, cinnamon sticks, and kosher salt in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Bring this to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the rice to simmer for 15 minutes. This step lets the rice absorb the essence of cinnamon and soften perfectly without becoming mushy, setting a flavorful base for your pudding.

Step 2: Add Milk and Sugar, Then Cook Until Creamy

Once the rice is tender, stir in the milk and sugar. Return the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat back to low. Continue to cook uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. As the mixture thickens, you’ll watch it transform into that irresistible creamy texture that defines the best Arroz con Leche.

Step 3: Choose to Enjoy Warm or Chilled

You can serve your rice pudding immediately while it’s warm and fragrant, perfect for cozy evenings. Alternatively, let it cool in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to enjoy a refreshing cold dessert – either way, this recipe shines through.

Step 4: Garnish and Make It Your Own

Before serving, remove the cinnamon sticks and add any optional toppings you love such as a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a handful of chopped nuts, or plump raisins. These add texture and extra layers of flavor, making the dish truly yours.

How to Serve Arroz con Leche (Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding) Recipe

A close-up view of a pot filled with creamy rice pudding showing about two layers: the base layer is a thick, smooth, white creamy mixture with visible soft rice grains, and the second layer includes two dark brown cinnamon sticks partly covered by the pudding. A light brown wooden spoon rests inside the pot stirring the pudding on the right side. The pot's interior is light beige, and the pot itself is white. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this comforting rice pudding to new heights. A light dusting of ground cinnamon intensifies that beloved spice, while chopped nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts lend a satisfying crunch. If you like a touch of natural sweetness, raisins or golden sultanas work beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Arroz con Leche pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced mango or berries, adding a refreshing contrast. Additionally, a cup of strong coffee or rich hot chocolate complements the warmth and creaminess of the pudding perfectly, creating an indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Arroz con Leche in individual glasses layered with caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also spoon it into cinnamon-dusted ramekins for a charming presentation that’s ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a little extra to enjoy later.

Freezing

Although Arroz con Leche freezes well, the texture of pudding can change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze in small portions in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm up the pudding gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring regularly and adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture. You can also microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating. Enjoy it warm or chilled—either way is a treat!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice has a different texture and takes longer to cook, so it’s not ideal for this pudding’s smooth, creamy consistency. For best results, stick with long-grain white rice as the recipe suggests.

Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk to make a dairy-free Arroz con Leche. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might be slightly different, but it remains delicious!

How do I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pot?

Frequent stirring during the milk-cooking step is key to preventing the rice pudding from sticking or burning. Using a heavy-bottomed pot also helps distribute heat evenly.

Can I add vanilla or other spices?

Definitely! A splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg adds a lovely twist to the traditional flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you enjoy most.

What’s the best way to serve Arroz con Leche for a crowd?

Prepare the pudding in a large baking dish or slow cooker and garnish just before serving. You can set up a toppings bar with nuts, cinnamon, and dried fruit so guests can personalize their bowls.

Final Thoughts

This Arroz con Leche (Creamy Cinnamon Rice Pudding) Recipe is truly a heartwarming dessert that’s easy to make and hard to resist. Its simplicity allows the wholesome ingredients to shine, creating a dish that feels like a loving tradition passed down through generations. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and share the warmth and joy it brings with your loved ones!