How to Make Arroz con Leche: The Mexican Comfort Food Everyone Craves
Acreamy and comforting Mexican dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, andcinnamon. Serve it warm for cozy nights or chilled for a refreshing treat.Simple, versatile, and passed down through generations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain or short-grain white rice (rinsed until water runs clear)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 tsp ground cinnamon)
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 cups whole milk (or evaporated/plant-based milk)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins(optional)
- Orange or lemon peel (optional, for citrus flavor)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice – Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clearto remove excess starch.
- Cook with Water & Cinnamon – In a medium pot, add rice, water, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt. Simmer gently until most of the water is absorbed and rice begins to soften.
- Add Milk & Sugar – Slowly pour in the milk and stir. Add sugar and mix until dissolved. Keep the heat low to prevent scorching.
- Simmer Slowly – Stir often with a wooden spoon as the rice cooks and the milk thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a little more milk.
- Flavor Boost (Optional) – Stir in vanilla extract, raisins, or citrus peel for added flavor. Remove peel or cinnamon stick before serving.
- Check Texture – Cook until the mixture looks like loose pudding; it will thicken more as it cools. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices.
- Serve– Scoop into bowls and serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Or chill in the fridge for a few hours until firm for a cold, pudding-like dessert.
Notes
Variations:
- Lighter: Use almond, coconut, or oat milk.
- Creamier: Add sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk.
- Seasonal: Simmer with cloves, nutmeg, or extra cinnamon.
- Modern Twist: Mix in chopped figs, dates, or shredded coconut.
- Best enjoyed warm in colder months, or chilled on hot days.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Thickens as it cools, so add extra milk if reheating.