What’s the difference between rice pudding and arroz con leche?

While both are creamy rice-based desserts, arroz con leche is made by slowly simmering raw rice with milk, cinnamon sticks, and sugar or condensed milk. It's often served thinner, especially in Mexican households, and has a more drinkable consistency. Rice pudding, on the other hand, is often made with eggs and cream or baked until set, creating a thicker, custard-style consistency.

How to make rice and milk?

If you're wondering how to make arroz con leche, the basic steps start here. Cook rice with water and a cinnamon stick until tender. Then add milk and a sweetener. Simmer the mixture until it thickens slightly. This classic method transforms simple ingredients into a cozy dessert you can enjoy hot or cold.

How healthy is arroz con leche?

How to make arroz con leche in a healthier way is simple. Choose low-fat or plant-based milk, use less sugar, or substitute with natural sweeteners. This way, the dish remains comforting while being a little lighter. It still provides energy, calcium, and protein great for an occasional treat or even a special breakfast.

How to make rice, milk, and cream dessert?

To make a richer version of arroz con leche, swap some of the milk for cream. Use 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, then follow the same cooking process. If you're exploring how to make arroz con leche with a thicker texture, this is the perfect variation for a more indulgent experience.

How to Make Arroz con Leche – Ultimate Guide to a Cozy Dessert

Name: How to Make Arroz con Leche: Cozy and Authentic Rice Dessert
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup long grain white rice; 2 cups water; 2 cinnamon sticks; 3 cups milk (any kind); 1/4–1/2 cup sugar or sweetened condensed milk

Description

A cozy and creamy Mexican rice dessert simmered with milk, cinnamon, and sweetener. Perfectly comforting and easy to customize.

Ingredients

1 cup long grain white rice

2 cups water

2 cinnamon sticks

3 cups milk (any kind)

1/4–1/2 cup sugar or sweetened condensed milk

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, add rice, water, and cinnamon sticks. Cover and simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes until water is absorbed.

2. Pour in the milk and add sugar or sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.

3. Let it cook for 15 more minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

4. If you prefer it thick like pudding, simmer longer. For a drinkable version, add a splash of milk.

5. Remove from heat. Let it cool slightly and serve warm or chilled, garnished with a cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon.

Notes

Use any milk of choice, including almond or oat milk.

You can substitute the sugar with Stevia, monk fruit, or other sweeteners.

Add vanilla extract or orange zest for added flavor.

Top with raisins or sliced fruit if desired.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert, Drinks
Method: Simmered
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 230
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 40mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg