Arroz con Leche (Spanish Rice Pudding)

Arroz con Leche is Spanish rice pudding, creamy, comforting, and delicately flavored with citrus and cinnamon.

Recipe Developer-Estefania

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 40

Total Time 45

In a large pan, pour the milk and add the cinnamon stick, orange peel, lemon peel, and pudding rice. Place the pan over low heat and bring the milk mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally every 4 minutes to prevent sticking. Do not let it boil.
Cook for about 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture looks thick and creamy. Around the 35-minute mark, add the sugar a little at a time, stirring continuously so it dissolves smoothly, and adjust the sweetness to your taste. Simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove from the heat. Keep in mind it will thicken even more as it cools.
Remove the cinnamon stick, orange peel, and lemon peel from the rice pudding.
Once the rice is cooked and the pudding has reached your desired consistency, add the butter. Turn off the heat and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
Transfer the rice pudding to serving bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Serve warm or cold with a garnish of cinnamon powder.

Infuse with Care: I always make sure the milk stays just below a boil so the citrus and cinnamon gently flavor the pudding.

Stir Every Few Minutes: I set a timer every 4 minutes to remind myself to stir; this keeps the rice from sticking.

Add Sugar Gradually: I like to taste as I go to make sure the sweetness is just right.

Finish with Butter: That final stir of butter adds a smooth finish I never skip.

Let It Rest: The pudding continues to thicken as it sits, so I keep that in mind when judging doneness.