Pin it
This Arroz con Leche comes straight from my grandma's kitchen - she'd whip it up whenever we had something to celebrate. There's nothing like watching rice bubble away with cinnamon and milk, filling every corner of the house with its cozy scent and bringing back fond memories. It's crazy how these few simple things can turn into something that feels like a warm hug.
Basic But Beautiful
The magic of this sweet treat is how it turns everyday pantry items into pure bliss. I love that I don't need to run to the store since I've always got these basics on hand. It's perfect either hot when it's chilly outside or cold during those summer days - it always gets everyone smiling.
Your Ingredients
- Rice: 1 cup of long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine will give you the nicest consistency.
- Milk: 4 cups of whole milk creates that rich base. You can try 2% if you want something lighter.
- Cinnamon Sticks: 2 sticks (Cassia or Ceylon) to add that warm, homey flavor.
- Salt: Just a tiny pinch to make the sweetness pop.
- Sugar: 1/2 cup granulated sugar, though dark brown sugar works too if you want a caramel-like taste.
Let's Cook Together
- Time to Enjoy
- Dish it up your way - all warm and snuggly or cool and refreshing.
- Make It Perfect
- Don't stop stirring until you've got that dreamy pudding texture.
- Add the Good Stuff
- Mix in your milk and sugar and watch the magic happen.
- Start with the Rice
- Get those grains going with water, cinnamon and just a tiny bit of salt.
Pin it
Change It Up
I'll throw in juicy raisins sometimes or use condensed milk for extra decadence. Every little change brings its own special something while keeping that comforting vibe we all crave.
Fancy Finishing Touches
A dash of cinnamon or some honey drizzled on top makes each serving unique. My little ones love to add chopped nuts or coconut flakes, turning it into their own custom dessert.
Storage Tips
This pudding stays good in the fridge and makes for quick snacks all week long. When you warm it up again, just add a little milk to bring back that smooth, creamy goodness.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I try dairy-free milk?
- Haven't tested it, but things like almond, soy, or oat milk might work fine. Whole or 2% milk is your best bet for original texture.
- → How should I store it?
- Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days. Freeze for 3 months, but reheating might change the texture.
- → When do I toss in raisins?
- Add them when putting in the milk. This gives them plenty of time to soften as it cooks.
- → How can leftovers be warmed up?
- Microwave or heat on the stove, throwing in a splash of milk or water if it's thickened too much.
- → Should it be warm or chilled?
- Go either way! Warm it up fresh or let it chill for a classic cold version.