Arroz con Leche y Coco
A creamy and aromatic rice pudding infused with the tropical flavors of coconut milk and cinnamon. This dessert is a beloved classic in Costa Rica, offering a comforting sweetness with a hint of exotic flair.

🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups Water
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Full-fat coconut milk
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened condensed milk
- 0.5 cup Granulated sugar(adjust to taste)
- 2 Cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- for dusting Ground cinnamon
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, water, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water is mostly absorbed and the rice is partially cooked.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Stir in the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot. - 3
Continue to simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency.
⏱️ 30 minutes💡 Tip: The pudding will thicken more as it cools. - 4
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Discard the cinnamon sticks.
💡 Tip: Ensure all cinnamon sticks are removed before serving. - 5
Pour the arroz con leche into individual serving bowls or a larger dish. Let it cool slightly, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
⏱️ 2 hours - 6
Before serving, dust generously with ground cinnamon.
💡 Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Arborio rice is recommended for its creamy texture, but medium-grain rice can also be used.
- ✓For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of condensed milk and sugar.
- ✓If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend a portion of the cooked rice with some of the liquid before returning it to the pot.
🔄 Variations
- Add a few drops of almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Stir in some toasted shredded coconut for added texture.