Arroz Con Leche Colombiano Recipe

We’ve always been captivated by the creamy delight of Arroz Con Leche Colombiano, a beloved Colombian rice pudding that’s as comforting as a family gathering. Originating from Colombia’s rich culinary traditions, this sweet treat blends simple ingredients into a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re winding down after dinner or sharing stories with friends.

What makes our take on this classic stand out is its warm spices and velvety texture that evoke the essence of Colombian culture. We’re excited to guide you through this easy recipe so you can bring a taste of South America to your kitchen and create lasting memories.

Ingredients

To craft our creamy and aromatic Arroz Con Leche Colombiano, we begin by assembling the key ingredients in the order they are used. This ensures a smooth preparation process that captures the essence of Colombian flavors.

  • Rice: 1 cup of long-grain white rice, rinsed under cold water to remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
  • Water: 2 cups of water, used initially to parboil the rice and help it absorb flavors evenly.
  • Milk: 4 cups of whole milk, providing the rich, velvety base that defines the pudding’s comforting creaminess.
  • Sweetener: 1 cup of granulated sugar, added gradually to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the spices.
  • Cinnamon: 2 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, infusing a warm, earthy aroma that evokes Colombian traditions.
  • Vanilla: 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, stirred in at the end for a subtle, floral depth that enhances the overall scent.
  • Optional Add-ins: ½ cup of raisins or 1 tablespoon of orange zest, incorporated if desired for added texture and a citrusy twist that complements the dish’s heritage.

These ingredients combine to deliver the signature spiced warmth and silky consistency of Arroz Con Leche Colombiano, making it a staple dessert in our kitchens.

Instructions

We guide you through preparing our authentic Arroz Con Leche Colombiano with simple, step-by-step directions that ensure a creamy, spiced delight every time.

Prepare the Ingredients

First, we gather and prep all the ingredients to set the foundation for our flavorful rice pudding. Start by measuring 1 cup of long-grain white rice and rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch for a fluffier texture. In separate bowls, measure 2 cups of water, 4 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If desired, add optional enhancements like 1/2 cup of raisins or the zest of one orange to infuse extra layers of flavor, ensuring everything is ready for seamless cooking.

Cook the Rice

We begin cooking the rice to build its base structure. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking—this step ensures the rice absorbs the water evenly and achieves a tender consistency. Keep an eye on the pot to maintain a gentle simmer, as overcooking at this stage can lead to a mushy texture.

Simmer and Flavor

With the rice ready, we add the creamy elements and spices to develop the signature velvety warmth of our Arroz Con Leche Colombiano. Pour in the 4 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring well to combine. Increase the heat to medium-low and simmer the mixture for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid scorching and promote a smooth blend—the milk will thicken as it reduces, creating that irresistible creamy texture we love in Colombian traditions. If you’ve added raisins or orange zest, they will plump up and release their flavors during this step.

Cool and Serve

Finally, we cool the pudding to perfect its texture and prepare it for serving. Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to release steam and prevent a skin from forming on top. Once slightly cooled, transfer it to serving bowls or a large dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the best chilled, comforting results. Serve our Arroz Con Leche Colombiano as is, or garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or fresh fruit for an elevated touch.

Tools and Equipment

To prepare our creamy Arroz Con Leche Colombiano with ease and precision, we recommend gathering these essential tools and equipment. Having the right items on hand ensures smooth execution of the steps we’ve outlined, from rinsing the rice to achieving that perfect velvety simmer.

Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

  • Medium saucepan: A 2- to 3-quart size works best for evenly cooking the rice and milk mixture without overflow. We prefer one with a heavy bottom to prevent scorching and maintain consistent heat.
  • Fine-mesh strainer: Essential for rinsing the long-grain white rice to remove excess starch, resulting in a fluffier texture. Opt for one with a sturdy handle for easy handling.
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring the pudding as it simmers. We recommend this for its heat-resistant properties and ability to scrape the pan’s bottom without damaging nonstick surfaces.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success. Use a set of dry measuring cups for rice and sugar, and liquid measuring cups for milk and water to avoid errors.
  • Stove or cooktop: A standard gas or electric stove suffices for bringing the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer. If using an induction cooktop, ensure your saucepan is compatible for optimal heat control.

For those new to Colombian desserts, note that these tools are versatile and commonly found in most kitchens, making Arroz Con Leche Colombiano accessible for beginners. If you’re scaling up the recipe for a larger gathering, consider adding a ladle for serving to enhance presentation.

Make-Ahead Instructions

We understand that life gets busy, so preparing Arroz Con Leche Colombiano ahead of time can make it easier to enjoy this creamy Colombian dessert without last-minute hassle. By following these simple steps, you can maintain its velvety texture and warm spice flavors for days.

Preparing in Advance

To get a head start, we recommend making the full recipe up to the cooling step in our detailed instructions. Once the pudding has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. This approach ensures the rice absorbs flavors fully while preventing any skin from forming on top—simply cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage is key to preserving the dish’s comforting, aromatic essence. Use the table below to reference optimal storage times and conditions based on our testing:

Storage Method Duration Temperature Tips for Best Results
Refrigerator Up to 5 days 40°F (4°C) or below Stir before storing to even out texture; avoid metallic containers to prevent off-flavors.
Freezer Up to 3 months 0°F (-18°C) or below Portion into freezer-safe bags for easy thawing; label with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Tips

When you’re ready to serve, reheating Arroz Con Leche Colombiano should restore its silky smoothness and inviting cinnamon aroma. Gently warm the stored pudding on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to avoid scorching. If it thickens, add a splash of whole milk—about 1-2 tablespoons per serving—to achieve the original creamy consistency. For a quicker option, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, but always taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

By planning ahead with these methods, we ensure your Arroz Con Leche Colombiano remains a delightful, make-ahead favorite for family gatherings or cozy nights.

Conclusion

We’ve loved sharing our take on Arroz Con Leche Colombiano

as it’s more than a recipe—it’s a warm embrace of Colombian heritage.

This creamy delight brings comfort to any table and lets you explore flavors that feel personal and inviting.

Whether you’re cooking for family or a gathering

we’re confident you’ll find joy in every spoonful.

Give it a try and make it your own—it’s the perfect way to create lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arroz Con Leche Colombiano?

Arroz Con Leche Colombiano is a traditional Colombian rice pudding that’s creamy, comforting, and full of cultural flavor. It’s made with simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and spices such as cinnamon, reflecting Colombia’s rich culinary heritage. This versatile dessert is perfect for family gatherings or everyday treats, offering a velvety texture that brings warmth and nostalgia.

What are the key ingredients for Arroz Con Leche Colombiano?

The main ingredients include long-grain white rice, water, whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Rinsing the rice first helps achieve a fluffier texture. For extra flavor, you can add optional items like raisins or orange zest. This combination creates the dish’s signature creamy warmth, making it easy to prepare at home.

How do you make Arroz Con Leche Colombiano?

Start by rinsing and cooking the rice in water until tender. Then, simmer it with whole milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until it reaches a creamy consistency. Cool the mixture before serving, and garnish as desired. The process takes about 30-45 minutes and is straightforward for beginners, resulting in a delicious homemade dessert.

What tools and equipment are needed to prepare Arroz Con Leche Colombiano?

You’ll need a medium saucepan for cooking, a fine-mesh strainer to rinse the rice, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a stove or cooktop. For serving larger groups, a ladle helps with presentation. These basic tools ensure smooth preparation and help achieve the perfect creamy texture.

Can I make Arroz Con Leche Colombiano ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance up to the cooling step. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months to preserve its velvety texture. This makes it ideal for events, saving time while keeping flavors fresh. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk.

How should I store and reheat Arroz Con Leche Colombiano?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat with a little milk to restore creaminess, or use the microwave in short bursts. Avoid overheating to prevent curdling, ensuring it tastes just as good as fresh.

What are some variations or add-ins for Arroz Con Leche Colombiano?

You can customize it by adding raisins, orange zest, or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Some variations include using condensed milk for a richer taste or substituting part of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to reflect personal preferences while keeping the authentic Colombian essence.