Spanish Arroz con Leche Recipe

4.98 from 41 votes

This creamy Spanish arroz con leche recipe is my mother-in-law's favorite. It's Spanish rice pudding done right!

Prep Time5

Cook Time30

Total Time35

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Spanish

Diet: Vegetarian

Servings: servings

Calories: 329.48kcal

Rinse the rice under cold water, and then put it in a saucepan. Pour in enough milk to barely cover the rice, then place over medium heat.
Add the cinnamon stick and lemon rind , and stir continuously until all of the milk is absorbed.
Add the rest of the milk about ½ cup (120 ml) at a time, stirring between each addition until all the milk is absorbed.
Once all the milk is added, taste to see if the rice is cooked to your liking. Some like it al dente, while others like it almost mushy.
When the rice is cooked, remove the rice from the heat, and add a pinch of salt and the ground cinnamon. Add the sugar a few tablespoons at a time until it is sweet enough for you.
Serve warm or cold with a garnish of cinnamon on each dish. Enjoy!

Always use whole milk for the best flavor and texture. For a dairy free version, use full-fat coconut milk.
Use a cinnamon stick in the rice pudding. Save the cinnamon powder for a garnish on the top when serving.
Don't skip the pinch of salt for the best flavor; I like to use sea salt.
Add the sugar slowly to taste. If it's too sweet, you can't go back!
Make it slowly; don't be in a rush. Adding the milk slowly and stirring constantly will make the best, creamiest rice pudding.