Colombian Arroz Con Leche Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Arroz con leche is a beloved dessert across Latin America, and the Colombian version stands out for its creamy texture and delightful cinnamon aroma. This comforting rice pudding blends simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings, Colombian arroz con leche offers a taste of tradition and nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this recipe will guide you to a perfectly creamy, subtly sweet dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.

In Colombia, arroz con leche is often enjoyed during celebrations or as an everyday treat, showcasing how humble ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The secret to its rich taste lies in slowly cooking the rice to absorb the milk’s creaminess and infusing it with fragrant cinnamon sticks and a hint of zest.

Ready your spoons and let’s dive into this delightful Colombian classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Colombian arroz con leche is more than just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy. The recipe is straightforward, requiring pantry staples that you likely already have.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy desserts that aren’t overly sweet but have a deep, comforting flavor.

You’ll love the creamy texture that comes from using whole milk and evaporated milk, which gives it a richer, velvety feel. The addition of lime zest adds a subtle brightness that balances the sweetness, making every spoonful refreshing yet indulgent.

Plus, this dish can easily be made ahead of time and tastes even better when chilled.

Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this arroz con leche brings a traditional Colombian touch to your table, making it a recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 lime zest (from one lime)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Cinnamon powder, for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine grater or zester (for lime zest)
• Serving bowls or ramekins
• Stove or cooktop

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too thick.
2. Cook the rice: In your heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of whole milk and the cinnamon sticks. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add the remaining liquids: After about 10 minutes, when the rice has softened slightly, add the remaining 2 cups of whole milk, evaporated milk, and the pinch of salt. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
4. Add sugar and lime zest: When the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened slightly (about 20-25 minutes), stir in the sugar and lime zest. Keep cooking on low, stirring often, until it reaches a creamy consistency—this should take another 10-15 minutes.
5. Finish with vanilla: Remove the cinnamon sticks. Stir in the vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sugar if needed.
6. Cool and serve: Transfer the arroz con leche to serving bowls or ramekins. You can serve it warm or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon powder before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, use a wooden spoon to gently break up any clumps of rice during cooking.

Try substituting evaporated milk with sweetened condensed milk for a sweeter, richer flavor—reduce added sugar accordingly.

For a vegan twist, use coconut milk instead of whole milk and evaporated milk, and reduce sugar to taste.

Add raisins or chopped nuts for texture and extra flavor. Some Colombian families like to add a splash of rum or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.

If you enjoy a thicker pudding, cook the mixture longer on low heat, stirring often. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arroz con leche is delicious served chilled or warm, depending on your preference. For a classic Colombian touch, serve it with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder on top and a few toasted coconut flakes for texture.

Pair this dessert with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of Colombian coffee for a complete and satisfying end to your meal. It also makes a wonderful breakfast treat when topped with fresh berries or sliced bananas.

For festive occasions, drizzle with a little caramel sauce or honey to add a touch of decadence without overpowering the traditional flavors.

Conclusion

Colombian arroz con leche is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture, fragrant cinnamon, and subtle citrus notes create an irresistible combination that delights both kids and adults alike.

This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to honor tradition or try something new, this arroz con leche is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Enjoy the process of making this classic Colombian treat and savor every spoonful with friends and family. Its versatility means you can customize it to your taste, making it a truly personal and cherished dish.

Happy cooking!

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