Name: Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 Cups white rice; 4 Cups water; 2 Cups whole milk; 14 Ounces sweetened condensed milk; 12 Ounces evaporated milk; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon; ¼ Cup granulated sugar (or up to 1¼ Cups, depending on sweetness preference)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 85 reviews

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that wraps you in cozy warmth and sweet, creamy comfort, then Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe is exactly what you need. This timeless treat combines tender, perfectly cooked rice with a luscious blend of milks and cinnamon, creating an enchanting balance of flavors that feels like a hug in every bite. With simple ingredients that come together to make something extraordinarily delicious, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for celebrations. Get ready to fall in love with this sweet classic that’s as beautiful on your spoon as it is satisfying to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface, arranged neatly. There is a white bowl filled with uncooked white rice positioned to the right, and next to it is a small white cup with granulated white sugar. Above these, there is a cinnamon stick placed horizontally. Near the center is a white pitcher filled with a creamy beige liquid, likely a spiced milk mixture, with foam bubbles on its surface. To the left of it, there is a small bowl with ground cinnamon and another small bowl with a dark brown syrup or extract. Below these, a transparent glass container holds white milk, and next to it is a small glass filled with a pale yellow liquid, likely condensed milk. At the top center, a clear glass holds water. The whole setup looks clean and simple. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be fooled by its simplicity — each ingredient in this Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of creamy texture, fragrant warmth, and delicate sweetness. From the starchy rice to the rich evaporated milk and aromatic cinnamon, these essentials come together perfectly.

2 Cups white rice: Choose a medium or long grain rice to achieve that soft, comforting pudding texture.
4 Cups water: Used to cook the rice until tender without any heaviness.
2 Cups whole milk: Adds a luscious creaminess that balances the texture.
14 Ounces sweetened condensed milk: Provides sweetness and thickens the pudding beautifully.
12 Ounces evaporated milk: Adds a rich, caramel-like depth that’s signature to arroz con leche.
1 cinnamon stick: Infuses the pudding with a warm, aromatic flavor that permeates every bite.
2 Teaspoons vanilla extract: Introduces a sweet, floral hint that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkled in and on top to enhance the cinnamon aroma and taste.
¼ Cup granulated sugar (or up to 1¼ Cups): Adjust to your desired level of sweetness; it beautifully balances the milks and spices.

How to Make Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Begin by placing the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinsing it under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch from the rice grains, which helps achieve the perfect creamy but fluffy texture without clumping.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, cinnamon stick, and water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but be gentle to avoid breaking the grains. The rice should come out tender and plump, the base layer of this luscious pudding.

Step 3: Add the Milks and Flavorings

Once the rice is perfectly tender, stir in the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Continue cooking for about 15 minutes over medium-low heat. You’ll notice the mixture thicken as the milks reduce and the sugars dissolve, creating the classic creamy consistency that makes this Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe so irresistible.

Step 4: Let It Rest and Thicken

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pudding sit for a bit — this resting time allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to thicken further, making every spoonful dreamy and rich.

Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate

Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least an hour to chill. Chilling not only intensifies the flavors but also rounds out the texture, making it pleasantly thick and creamy when served.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

You can enjoy this comforting dessert at room temperature or straight from the fridge. A dusting of ground cinnamon on top is classic, but feel free to add a handful of plump raisins or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra special touch.

How to Serve Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe

Two transparent glasses each have a creamy white rice pudding with visible rice grains, topped with brown cinnamon powder and two brown cinnamon sticks. The glasses sit on a white marbled surface with a gold measuring spoon containing uncooked white rice and some scattered cinnamon powder beside them. A white bowl with brown cinnamon sticks is partially visible in the corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling a pinch of ground cinnamon on the finished pudding adds a warm, fragrant aroma that instantly lifts the dish. For added texture and a pop of natural sweetness, raisins are a traditional and delightful choice. Some like to add toasted nuts for a little crunch, while others drizzle honey or caramel to make it even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

This Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe is perfect as a standalone dessert, but it also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, such as sliced mango or berries, which provide a refreshing contrast. Serving alongside a cup of rich Mexican hot chocolate or coffee creates a cozy combo that’s truly unforgettable.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the pudding in small mason jars or pretty dessert glasses, layering it with cinnamon-dusted whipped cream or crushed cinnamon cookies. Another fun idea is to turn it into a frozen treat by chilling it in popsicle molds, perfect for warmer days when you want that creamy flavor in a portable form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic dessert to enjoy over several meals without losing its flavor or smoothness.

Freezing

You can freeze arroz con leche, but be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing due to the dairy content. Freeze the pudding in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results, then stir well before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.

Reheating

When reheating your rice pudding, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and add a splash of milk if it seems too thick. Heating it slowly brings back the creamy texture without curdling the milks or losing the lovely cinnamon flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

Brown rice has a firmer texture and longer cooking time, so if you swap it in, expect a chewier pudding. It’s doable but will change the classic creamy softness typical of a traditional Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe.

Is sweetened condensed milk necessary?

Sweetened condensed milk lends both sweetness and creamy richness, so while you can adjust the sugar separately, leaving it out will alter the dessert’s traditional flavor and texture notably.

Can this pudding be made vegan or dairy-free?

You can make a plant-based version by swapping the milks for coconut or almond milk and using a sweetened condensed milk alternative. The texture will differ slightly, but it can still be delicious and satisfying.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

From start to finish, expect about 1 hour and 50 minutes, including cooking and chilling time. The slow cooking and resting are crucial to developing the authentic texture and rich flavors.

Should the pudding be served warm or cold?

Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe is versatile and delightful both warm and chilled. Some love it warm and soothing, especially on cooler days, while others prefer it cold and refreshing after refrigeration.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special kind of joy in making and sharing Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe. It’s a dessert that feels like tradition, warmth, and comfort all in one spoonful. I encourage you to try this recipe, embrace the simple magic of its ingredients, and enjoy every creamy, cinnamon-kissed bite with friends and loved ones. Sweet moments like these are well worth savoring.