• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
5 Secrets to Mexican Cooking

sign up to get my top 5 secrets to help you master mexican meals at home!

trending now: March Cooking Challenge!
  • About
  • Press/Advertise
  • Contact

Isabel Eats

Easy Mexican recipes for home cooks

  • Recipes
    • All Recipes
    • Course
      • Breakfast
      • Dinner
      • Sides
      • Desserts
      • Appetizers
      • Drinks
      • Soups & Stews
      • Salads
      • Salsas
      • Sauces and Condiments
    • Diet
      • Gluten Free
      • Low Carb
      • Paleo
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
    • Meat
      • Beef
      • Chicken
      • Chorizo
      • Pork
      • Turkey
      • Seafood
    • Occasion
      • Christmas
      • Cinco De Mayo
      • Easter
      • Game Day
      • Summer
      • Thanksgiving
    • Type
      • 30 Minute Meals
      • Mexican Basics
      • Freezer Friendly
      • Grilling
      • Healthy
      • Instant Pot
      • Slow Cooker
      • Enchiladas
      • Tacos
  • Dinners
  • Kitchen Tips
  • Life
  • Shop
  • About
  • Subscribe!

    sign up to get my top 5 secrets to help you master mexican meals at home!

Browse by Course/Type/Diet

  • by course
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Sides
    • Desserts
    • Appetizers
    • Drinks
    • Soups & Stews
    • Salads
    • Salsas
    • Sauces & Condiments
  • by type
    • 30 Minute Meals
    • Mexican Basics
    • Freezer Friendly
    • Grilling
    • Healthy
    • Instant Pot
    • Slow Cooker
    • Enchiladas
    • Tacos
  • by meat
    • Beef
    • Chicken
    • Chorizo
    • Pork
    • Turkey
    • Seafood
  • by diet
    • Gluten Free
    • Low Carb
    • Paleo
    • Vegan
    • Vegetarian
  • by occasion
    • Christmas
    • Cinco De Mayo
    • Easter
    • Game Day
    • Summer
    • Thanksgiving
Jump to latest Browse All Recipes
HomeRecipesDesserts

Arroz con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)

rate recipe Shareshare
Share on:
24987 shares
By: IsabelPosted: 4/14/21

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclaimer.

Jump to Recipe
Arroz con Leche (or Mexican rice pudding) is a comforting and simple no-fuss dessert that's guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Arroz con Leche (or Mexican rice pudding) is a comforting and simple no-fuss Mexican dessert that’s guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. It can be served hot or cold and is made with only 6 ingredients!

Arroz con Leche in a pot ready to be eaten.

What is Arroz con Leche?

Arroz con Leche, or Mexican rice pudding, will forever remind me of my family. It’s a comforting, simple, and easy dessert made from a few ingredients including long-grain white rice, sugar, milk, and cinnamon sticks. It can be served hot or cold, and is eaten year round!

Ingredients in arroz con leche.

Ingredients in Arroz con Leche

I like to keep things as simple and as uncomplicated as possible, and this version is just how my mom makes it. This recipe uses only 6 simple ingredients that you most likely already have in your kitchen.

  • milk (2% or whole milk)
  • sugar
  • long-grain white rice
  • cinnamon sticks
  • a pinch of salt
  • water

There are countless arroz con leche recipe variations out there. Some include sweetened condensed milk, others use whole milk, some use evaporated milk, and some use a combination of all three!

Arroz con Leche (or Mexican rice pudding) is a comforting and simple no-fuss dessert that's guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Variations and Mix-Ins

Since I like to keep things simple I didn’t add any mix-ins, but there are many popular variations that include:

  • raisins
  • shredded coconut
  • rum
  • dried fruits

If you’d like to add in a mix-in, I recommend adding it when you add in the milk.

I’ve had the variation with raisins before and I love it. The raisins get super warm and plump up in the pudding and when you finally eat them, and they practically burst in your mouth! It’s so good!

Arroz con leche in a bowl topped with chopped nuts and cinnamon.

Optional Toppings

Once your Arroz con Leche is ready to eat, here are a few great options for what to top it with:

  • chopped nuts
  • cinnamon
  • brown sugar
  • nutmeg
  • honey
  • caramel

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating

Storage and Freezing: Arroz con leche can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 5-6 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly when reheated.

Reheating: It is best reheated in a pot on the stove, or in a bowl in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or water since it may have thickened a bit too much in the fridge.

More Mexican desserts

  • Tres Leches Cake
  • Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding)
  • Mexican Brownies
  • Fresas con Crema
  • Sweet Tamales

Recipe

4.75 from 111 votes

Arroz con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)

Serves: 8 people (about 1/2 cup each)
Print
Rate
Arroz con Leche (or Mexican rice pudding) is a comforting and simple no-fuss dessert that's guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Prep: 2 minutes
Cook: 45 minutes
Total : 1 hour
Arroz con Leche (or Mexican Rice Pudding) is a Mexican dessert made from long-grain white rice, sugar, milk, and cinnamon sticks.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 4 cups milk (I used 2% milk, but you can also use whole milk for an even thicker consistency.)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • optional toppings: ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, a spoonful of cajeta

Instructions

  • In medium or large pot over high heat, add rice, cinnamon sticks, salt and water. Mix together and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 15 minutes until most of the water has evaporated.
  • Add the milk, give it a stir, cover and cook for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the sugar, give it another stir, cover and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove the lid, raise the heat to medium-high and cook for another 5 minutes or until the rice pudding has reached a thick consistency.
  • Remove from heat and let rice cool for 15 minutes. This will help the pudding thicken even more. Serve warm or refrigerate for 2 hours and serve cold.
  • Garnish with cinnamon, chopped nuts, a spoonful of caramel, or any other toppings you like.

Video

Isabel’s Tips:

  • Milk: I don’t recommend using skim/nonfat milk. This recipe has not been tested using a milk alternative like almond, soy, oat, or cashew milk.
  • Mix-ins: If you’d like to add in a mix-in like raisins or other dried fruit, I recommend adding it when you add in the milk.
  • Storage + Freezing: It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 5-6 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly when reheated.
  • Reheating: It is best reheated in a pot on the stove, or in a bowl in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or water since it may have thickened a bit too much in the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1/8th of recipe – about 1/2 cup Calories: 242kcal (12%) Carbohydrates: 50g (17%) Protein: 7g (14%) Fat: 3g (5%) Saturated Fat: 2g (10%) Cholesterol: 10mg (3%) Sodium: 138mg (6%) Potassium: 251mg (7%) Sugar: 31g (34%) Vitamin A: 1000IU (20%) Calcium: 600mg (60%) Iron: 0.9mg (5%)
Author: Isabel Eats
Course:Dessert
Cuisine:Mexican
Arroz con Leche (or Mexican rice pudding) is a comforting and simple no-fuss dessert that's guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Did you Make my Arroz con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)?Leave a comment below and tag @isabeleats on social media!
@isabeleats

You may also like…

  • Arroz Verde (Green Rice) in a white bowl.
    Arroz Verde (Green Rice)
  • Fresas con crema in a cup
    Fresas Con Crema
  • Mexican cauliflower rice in skillet garnished with cilantro and lime.
    Mexican Cauliflower Rice
  • Cooked Mexican rice in a pot with peas mixed in.
    Authentic Mexican Rice
free ebook!

download my top 10 recipes book

Subscribe and receive a free e-cookbook of our Top 10 Easy Mexican Recipes!

Get My Copy!

Download my top 10 easy Mexican recipes!

Creamy and cheesy taco pasta ready to eat.
Previous Post
Taco Pasta
Roasted poblano corn chowder in a bowl topped with cilantro and a lime wedge.
Next Post
Roasted Poblano Corn Chowder

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Have a question? Use the form below to submit your question or comment. I love hearing from you and seeing what you made!
Recipe Rating:




  1. Mk says

    Posted on 3/21 at 7:39 pm

    5 stars
    I used almond milk vanilla flavored and it works. It just needs a little bit more time covered. And if it’s not thick enough I added a little cornstarch slurry. but this was very good.

    Reply
  2. Pea says

    Posted on 3/20 at 11:21 pm

    5 stars
    I had a strong craving and an excess of milk in the fridge, naturally I had to make it. Though I never had before, this was very easy to follow. I liked the simplicity of ingredients in this, how it should be! I will use this recipe again in the future đŸ˜€

    Reply
    • Ana @ Isabel Eats says

      Posted on 3/21 at 12:19 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  3. Lainey Herrera says

    Posted on 3/13 at 10:34 pm

    4 stars
    I was looking for a recipe that mimicked my mother-in-law’s arroz con leche when I found this recipe. I cut the sugar in half as others suggested and probably will use even less than that next time but otherwise it came very close to what I am used to. Thank you!!

    Reply
    • Ana @ Isabel Eats says

      Posted on 3/14 at 10:37 am

      Thank you so much Lainey!

      Reply
  4. Donna says

    Posted on 3/2 at 5:15 pm

    5 stars
    Forgot the stars!

    Reply
  5. Donna says

    Posted on 3/2 at 5:14 pm

    I have used this recipe for the past year, since I first found it!! I love it and so does everyone I’ve given it to. Thank you!!

    Reply
  6. Tyra says

    Posted on 1/8 at 5:14 pm

    Sorry. Forgot to rate it. It’s a 10 in my book!

    Reply
Older Comments

Primary Sidebar

Isabel Orozco-Moore, Founder of Isabel Eats
¡Hola!

i’m isabel

A first-generation Mexican American who loves to cook! Here at Isabel Eats, you’ll find a mix of all your favorite authentic Mexican recipes with a twist!

Read More

Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

free email series!

5 Secrets to Mexican Cooking

My top 5 secrets to help you master Mexican meals at home in no time!

Sign me up!

Sign up to get My top 5 secrets to help you master Mexican meals at home in no time!

Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

Authentic Recipes

This Mexican Pork Chile Verde is made of tender pieces of pork simmered in a flavorful tomatillo and chile broth. Serve in a bowl or with a side of rice for an authentic Mexican meal! (low carb, gluten free, paleo)

Chile Verde Recipe

Masa for Tamales

Masa for Tamales

Six bolillo breads on a baking sheet ready to eat.

Bolillo Bread (Mexican Rolls)

Pozole verde in a bowl topped with shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, cilantro, and lime juice.

Chicken Pozole Verde

Pozole Rojo (Red Posole) recipe

Pozole Rojo Recipe

Cooked Mexican rice in a pot with peas mixed in.

Authentic Mexican Rice

Reader Favorites

Beef empanadas on a plate served with a side of guacamole.

Beef Empanadas

Chile relleno on a plate with red salsa.

Chile Relleno Recipe

Cooked canned black beans with tomatoes, onions and garlic in a bowl.

How to Cook Canned Black Beans

Chicken enchiladas in a baking dish topped with cilantro.

Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Juicy pork carnitas in warm corn tortillas topped with cilantro, onions and limes.

Easy Carnitas Recipe

Conchas in a bowl ready to be eaten.

Conchas (Mexican Sweet Bread)

Opens in a new window Opens an external site Opens an external site in a new window

5-star faves

Frozen margaritas in glasses topped with lime wedges.

Frozen Margaritas

These were absolutely delicious. So fresh and the perfect amount of sweetness.

A bowl of borracho beans

Borracho Beans

These beans are delicious! Garlic, onion, beer and bacon…you can’t go wrong, lol! I loved these!

Chile Colorado

This recipe is so perfect and delicious. My entire family loved it! Big kudos to you for such an authentic masterpiece!

follow along @isabeleats

Favorites

  • Tacos
  • Sides
  • 30 Minute Meals
  • Desserts
  • Drinks
  • Salsas

Browse By Meat

  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Pork
  • Seafood
  • Turkey
  • Chorizo
Back to Top
  • About
  • Press
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy
© 2023 Isabel Eats Site Credits Designed by Melissa Rose Design Developed by Once Coupled