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arroz con leche recipe colombian​

Arroz Con Leche (Colombian Style Rice Pudding)

Arroz Con Leche is a deliciously creamy and comforting Colombian rice pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. This traditional dessert is simple to prepare, making it a perfect option for both casual treats and special occasions. You can even customize it with variations like adding raisins (arroz con leche y pasas) for extra sweetness or adjusting it to suit dietary preferences. It’s an affordable, easy, and satisfying dessert that everyone will love!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Colombian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 4 cups whole milk or dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk
  • 1 cup sugar adjust to your preference
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • ½ cup raisins optional, for arroz con leche y pasas
  • A pinch of salt optional

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or pot
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Strainer (for rinsing rice)
  • Bowl for serving

Method
 

  1. Rinse and Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Place the rice in a pot with about 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the rice is tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Milk Mixture: In the same pot, add 4 cups of milk, sugar, and a cinnamon stick. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
  3. Combine Rice and Milk: Add the cooked rice into the simmering milk mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the milk and the mixture thickens. Stir regularly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
  4. Add Flavor and Toppings: Once the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and raisins (if using). Let the pudding cool for a few minutes before serving.
  5. Serve: Spoon the warm or chilled arroz con leche into bowls and garnish with extra cinnamon or toppings of your choice. Serve and enjoy!
    arroz con leche recipe colombian​

Notes

For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
If you prefer a sweeter pudding, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste.
If you're making arroz con leche y pasas, soak the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the mixture for a plumper texture.
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
For a thicker pudding, cook it for a little longer. If you prefer a thinner consistency, reduce the cooking time.
arroz con leche recipe colombian​