Mexican Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche Mexicano)

Arroz con leche is a Mexican rice pudding that can be served warm or cold with your favorite toppings for a creamy sweet treat.

Reader Robin Says: “Wow this is the best rice pudding ever! So creamy and rich. For those who like raisins in their rice pudding, certainly feasible!”★★★★★

Arroz con leche is a popular dessert in Mexico and Latin American countries. Therefore you will find different variations, like this Colombian version.

Rice pudding is a popular dessert because it is easy, affordable, and feeds a crowd. So if you need a dessert for a group of people or a large family, this is it! Or try this recipe for Chocoflan, the layers make it a showstopper.

Ingredients

The ingredients to make Mexican Rice Pudding are simple and easy to source.

White Rice– I used Jasmine rice since I always have it in my pantry. However, any type of white rice will work for this recipe.

Cinnamon Stick– You get a stronger cinnamon flavor using a stick, however, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon can be substituted.

Vanilla– I have regular vanilla pictured above, but if you have Mexican vanilla, that’s even better.

For the 3 kinds of milk, use whole, evaporated, and sweetened condensed milk, I can’t offer any substitutions since I’ve only made the recipe using these kinds of milk.

How to Make Mexican Rice Pudding

Mexican rice pudding is not difficult to make but does require some babysitting on the stove. The milk can overflow or burn the bottom of the pot, which has happened to me. So be sure to keep an eye on it.

Start by rinsing the rice well in a strainer to remove extra starches. Then add it to a large pot with water and the cinnamon stick.

Cook the rice until most of the water is absorbed, this takes about 15 minutes.

Then add the Evaporated, Sweetened Condensed, and Whole Milk to the rice. Give it a good stir and bring the heat up until the mixture starts simmering.

*Note- This is a creamier arroz con leche, if you prefer a thicker version, then reduce the whole milk from 4 to 3 cups.

Once simmering reduce the heat, and stir it every couple of minutes. You can add any dried fruit, like raisins at this point. Allow the rice pudding to continue simmering for 20-25 minutes until it thickens. Then turn off the heat and allow the rice pudding to rest for 30 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing

You may see a film develop on top as it cools, just stir it again. After 30 minutes of resting, the arroz con leche can be served. It will still be slightly warm.

Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top or serve with fresh berries. Store any leftover rice pudding in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Arroz con Leche can be served cold and makes a refreshing treat in the summertime.

More Mexican Desserts