Arroz con Leche, a treasured Mexican dessert, embodies warmth and nostalgia with each creamy, cinnamon-scented bite. When the holidays roll around, kitchens throughout Mexico fill with the soothing aroma of sweet milk simmering with rice, sugar, and spice. Comforting textures meet rich flavors, making this dish a beloved staple for festive gatherings and family meals. As generations pass down their secrets, each family adds their unique touch to this classic recipe.
What makes Arroz con Leche so enticing is its simplicity and adaptability. Whether it evokes memories of grandma’s kitchen or you’re a newcomer craving a soul-soothing treat, this dessert has never been more inviting. Plus, with rice being a natural source of energy, it’s the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Around 85% of the world’s population relies on rice as a staple diet, highlighting its global significance and reassuring us of its nutritional value. You’ll want to make your own discoveries.
Let me know how you make yours! Feel free to share any memorable versions or twists you’ve tried with this cherished favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- Growing up, this dish marked every festive occasion in my family, evoking a sense of belonging with each serving. You might find it becomes a part of your family tradition, too.
- Perfect for chilly evenings, its warm flavors and creamy texture create a comforting hug in a bowl. Picture curling up on the couch with a bowl, adding coziness to your nights.
- I’ve played with ingredients over the years—sometimes adding a splash of vanilla or a handful of raisins—making it a personalized delight every time. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste buds.
- Beyond its delightful taste, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make with pantry staples, saving time without sacrificing flavor. It’s an excellent choice for spontaneous dessert cravings.
Recipe Card
Arroz con Leche
Description
Arroz con Leche, a heartwarming dessert, combines creamy textures with the aromatic richness of cinnamon. This beloved Mexican treat, perfect for family gatherings and festive occasions, delights with every spoonful.Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Cooking Arroz con Leche
-
Rinse Rice
Rinse the rice in a sieve under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
Ensure all starch is washed off for a non-sticky consistency. -
Cook Rice
In a large pot, combine rice, water, and the cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until water is mostly absorbed.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Simmer with Milk
Add milk, sugar, and salt to the pot. Continue to simmer gently, stirring often, until the mixture thickens, about 20 minutes.
Ensure a gentle heat to avoid burning the milk. -
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and raisins, if using. Let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving.
Serve warm or refrigerate for a cold dessert.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8gg13%
- Saturated Fat 5gg25%
- Trans Fat 0gg
- Cholesterol 25mgmg9%
- Sodium 100mgmg5%
- Potassium 200mgmg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 52gg18%
- Dietary Fiber 1gg4%
- Sugars 25gg
- Protein 8gg16%
- Vitamin A 6% IU
- Vitamin C 2% mg
- Calcium 20% mg
- Iron 4% mg
- Vitamin D 15% IU
- Vitamin E 2% IU
- Vitamin K 0% mcg
- Thiamin 2% mg
- Riboflavin 15% mg
- Niacin 0% mg
- Vitamin B6 0% mg
- Folate 0% mcg
- Vitamin B12 15% mcg
- Biotin 0% mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0% mg
- Phosphorus 20% mg
- Iodine 0% mcg
- Magnesium 4% mg
- Zinc 10% mg
- Selenium 0% mcg
- Copper 0% mg
- Manganese 2% mg
- Chromium 0% mcg
- Molybdenum 0% mcg
- Chloride 2% mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.