Arroz con Leche y Coco Costarricense
A delightful twist on the classic rice pudding, this Costa Rican version incorporates the tropical flavor of coconut milk, creating a rich, creamy, and aromatic dessert. It's often enjoyed warm or chilled.

🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup White rice(rinsed)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 can (12 oz) Evaporated milk
- 0.75 cup Granulated sugar(or to taste)
- 2 sticks Cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- for dusting Ground cinnamon
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 2
Stir in the coconut milk, evaporated milk, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: Use a wooden spoon for stirring. - 3
Continue to simmer, stirring often, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 4
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Discard the cinnamon sticks.
💡 Tip: The pudding will thicken further as it cools. - 5
Serve warm or chilled. Dust with ground cinnamon before serving.
💡 Tip: Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a creamier texture, use full-fat coconut milk.
- ✓Adjust the sugar to your personal preference.
- ✓If the pudding becomes too thick, you can stir in a little more milk (dairy or non-dairy) before serving.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of raisins during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Incorporate a bit of grated fresh coconut for added texture.