If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you absolutely must try this Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe. It’s a rich, creamy twist on traditional rice pudding that marries the warm spices of cinnamon and cloves with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. The luscious combination of creamy milks, tender rice, and plump raisins creates a texture and flavor that just feels like a big, warm hug. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, this Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large silver pot filled with a thick, off-white liquid that looks creamy and slightly lumpy. Inside the liquid, there is a single brown cinnamon stick partially submerged near the center, adding contrast with its dark, rough texture. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface, and a white cloth is seen underneath or beside it. The inside walls of the pot are shiny and metallic, showing signs of use. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe is delightfully straightforward, yet each item contributes something essential to the final magic. From the creamy milks to the fragrant spices and naturally sweet pumpkin, every component plays a part in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

White rice: The base that soaks up all the milky, spiced goodness, giving the pudding its characteristic creaminess.
Water: Used to cook the rice to tender perfection before adding the richer ingredients.
Cinnamon sticks: Infuse warm, aromatic depth that makes this dessert feel like autumn in a bowl.
Cloves: A pinch adds a subtle hint of spice to complement the cinnamon perfectly.
Pumpkin puree: Brings smooth texture and that unmistakable seasonal flavor with vibrant color.
Evaporated milk: Adds a creamy richness without overwhelming sweetness.
Sweetened condensed milk: Provides the luscious sweetness and thick texture that makes this dish irresistibly indulgent.
Vanilla: Enhances all the other flavors with a sweet, floral note.
Raisins: Add little bursts of chewy sweetness, a lovely contrast to the creamy pudding.
Milk: Keeps the pudding smooth and creamy, helping to meld all the flavors together.

How to Make Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice with Aromatics

Start by adding the white rice, water, cinnamon sticks, and cloves into a large pot. Cover and bring the mixture to a boil, then cook for about 18 minutes until the rice is fully tender. This step lets the rice absorb the warm spices deeply, setting the stage for all the rich flavors to come.

Step 2: Drain and Prepare the Rice Base

Once cooked, carefully drain any excess liquid, then remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Return the fragrant rice to the pot, which now serves as the perfect canvas for the creamy pumpkin mixture.

Step 3: Combine Pumpkin and Milks

Add the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, raisins, and regular milk to the pot. Gently stir everything together. The pumpkin will look slightly lumpy at first—use your spoon to break these up and create a smoother, silkier texture.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish

Cover the pot, place it back on medium heat, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Watch closely and turn off the heat immediately to prevent burning. Give it one last good stir, then allow the pudding to cool before refrigerating for a few hours or overnight to let those flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe

Two clear glasses are filled with a creamy light beige rice pudding. Each glass has one or two cinnamon sticks standing upright in the middle. The surface of the pudding is sprinkled with ground cinnamon and small dark raisins. The glasses rest on a white marbled surface, with a colorful cloth showing red, yellow, and green floral patterns placed beside them. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top just before serving for an inviting aroma and that extra pop of spice. A few toasted pumpkin seeds can add a wonderful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pudding.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own, but if you want to get creative, serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a simple plate of fresh, sliced apples to complement the autumn flavors in the Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try serving the arroz con leche in small mason jars or clear glasses layered with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a raisin on top. It’s a charming way to show off the pudding’s creamy texture and lovely orange hue, perfect for gatherings or holiday parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to intensify even more as it rests.

Freezing

This pudding freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating

If you prefer to enjoy your Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche warm, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just roast or steam your fresh pumpkin first, then blend it into a smooth puree. This can add an even fresher flavor, though canned pumpkin puree offers convenience and consistency that’s perfect for this recipe.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute evaporated and sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk or other plant-based milk alternatives, and use coconut cream or a dairy-free condensed milk substitute to maintain creaminess and sweetness.

Can I omit the raisins?

Sure! Raisins add a delightful sweet chewiness, but if they aren’t your thing, you can leave them out or replace them with other dried fruits like chopped dates or dried cranberries.

How long does it take for this Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe to chill properly?

For the best texture and flavor, chill the pudding for at least 2 to 3 hours, but overnight chilling allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to thicken beautifully.

Can I double the recipe for larger gatherings?

Definitely! This recipe scales up well. Just make sure you use a large enough pot and stir frequently when heating so it cooks evenly without sticking or burning.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe, you might find yourself craving it all year long, not just during fall. Its creamy, comforting qualities paired with warm spices and the subtle pumpkin sweetness make it a uniquely satisfying treat. So go ahead—spread the joy by making this delicious dessert for your family and friends. It’s sure to bring smiles and maybe even a few happy sighs around the table.

Pumpkin Arroz Con Leche Recipe