As the first cool breezes of fall rolled in, I found myself seeking out recipes that evoke warmth and nostalgia. That’s when I rediscovered the creamy delight of Arroz con Tres Leches, a Colombian favorite that never fails to enchant. Picture this: the rice simmering gently, infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon, while three types of milk transform humble ingredients into a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Each spoonful bursts with a lusciousness that can easily transport you to the heart of Colombian kitchens, where family and friends gather around to share stories over dessert.
What I love most about this Three Milks Rice Pudding is its versatility—whether served warm amidst laughter and conversation or chilled on a hot day, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a perfect treat for those with dietary restrictions. So, if you’re tired of the same old desserts and looking to impress with something truly special, let’s dive into this luxurious recipe that’s as simple as it is delightful. Grab your favorite bowl and join me in crafting this creamy masterpiece!
Why is Arroz con Tres Leches irresistible?
Creamy, comforting texture: Each spoonful melts in your mouth, offering a rich, luxurious feel that’s hard to resist.
Sweet cinnamon notes: The aromatic kick from cinnamon adds warmth, making each bite a cozy experience.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it warm, chilled, or at room temperature—perfect for every occasion!
Gluten-free delight: This dish caters to dietary needs, allowing everyone to indulge without worry.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Whether for a festive gathering or a simple family dinner, it always leaves guests craving more.
Simple to make: With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that impresses without hassle!
Arroz con Tres Leches Ingredients
For the Pudding Base
• 1 cup long-grain white rice – A key component, it forms the structure of the pudding; make sure to wash it first to remove excess starch.
• 2 cups water – Essential for cooking the rice; ensures it becomes tender and fluffy.
• 2 cinnamon sticks – Infuses warm, aromatic flavors throughout the pudding as it cooks.
For the Milk Mixture
• 2 cups whole milk – Adds creaminess to the dish; you can substitute low-fat milk for a lighter touch.
• 1 cup evaporated milk – Enhances the rich texture; if unavailable, use extra whole milk instead.
• 1 (12 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – Sweetens and thickens the pudding; full-fat is recommended for richness.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Contributes to the luxuriousness; for a lighter version, you can cut this in half.
For Seasoning and Sweetness
• 1 ½ tablespoons vanilla extract – Deepens the overall flavor; consider using almond extract for a nutty twist.
• ½ cup sugar – Sweetens the pudding; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
• Pinch salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
This delightful Arroz con Tres Leches (Three Milks Rice Pudding) is not just a dessert; it’s an experience waiting to unfold!
How to Make Arroz con Tres Leches
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Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix the washed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then stir in the cinnamon sticks for added flavor.
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Cook the rice: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender and absorbs most of the water.
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Remove cinnamon: Carefully take out the cinnamon sticks from the rice, readying it for the sweet milk mixture.
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Whisk the milks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
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Mix with rice: Pour the milky blend over the cooked rice, stirring gently to ensure every grain is nestled in the creamy goodness.
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Simmer for thickness: On low heat, continue to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pudding thickens slightly.
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Cool and serve: Allow your Arroz con Tres Leches to cool down a bit before serving. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled to your preference.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or seasonal fruits before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Arroz con Tres Leches (Three Milks Rice Pudding) are a wonderful option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the rice and cinnamon up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Once cooked, let the rice cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can also whisk together the milk mixture (whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk) ahead of time, keeping it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepared rice with the milk mixture, simmer for an additional 20 minutes, and enjoy a dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Arroz con Tres Leches?
Indulging in the creamy sweetness of this dessert opens up a world of delightful pairings that will elevate your meal.
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Fresh Tropical Fruits: Mango or pineapple adds a refreshing burst of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the creamy pudding.
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Cinnamon Sugar Tostones: These crispy fried plantains dusted with cinnamon sugar provide a delightful crunch along with the creamy dessert. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of texture to your plate.
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Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of rich chocolate shavings on top enhances the flavors, bringing a luxurious, indulgent vibe that’s hard to resist.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs perfectly, as the rich flavors complement the sweetness of the pudding splendidly. It’s a classic match that wakes up your taste buds.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top not only adds a light, airy fluff to the dessert but also elevates its look to a more elegant level.
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Churros: These cinnamon-sugar-dusted fried pastries provide a crunchy counterpart, inviting you to dip and scoop up every luscious bite of Arroz con Tres Leches. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy dessert!
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Mint Leaves: A few mint leaves as a garnish add a pop of color along with a refreshing herbal note that balances the sweetness of the pudding.
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Dark Rum or Licor de Cafe: For an adult twist, serving with a glass of dark rum or a sweet coffee liqueur can deepen the flavor experience, making it a decadent after-dinner treat.
Expert Tips for Arroz con Tres Leches
- Rice Preparation: Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring a lighter, creamier texture in your Arroz con Tres Leches.
- Watch the Heat: Cook on medium-low to avoid burning the rice mixture, and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the milk mixture before adding it to the rice. Feel free to reduce the sugar or use a bit more sweetened condensed milk based on your preference.
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, allow your pudding to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Garnish Creatively: Top your Arroz con Tres Leches with fresh berries or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for added flavor and visual appeal.
Storage Tips for Arroz con Tres Leches
Room Temperature: Leave out for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety; it’s best to refrigerate promptly after serving.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, but it may thicken—just stir in a splash of milk when serving.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months if you want to keep it longer. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk to bring back its creamy consistency. Enjoy your Arroz con Tres Leches as a comforting dessert!
Arroz con Tres Leches Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this creamy dessert to your heart’s delight!
- Nutty Flavor: Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a delightful twist that adds depth and warmth.
- Citrusy Brightness: Add a touch of lime zest to refresh the flavors, giving the dessert an exhilarating burst of joy.
- Fruity Topping: Top with fresh berries or banana slices to introduce natural sweetness and vibrant colors for an appealing presentation.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for a decadent finish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg for a warm, surprising heat that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Coconut Cream: Substitute some heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist, evoking sun-soaked beaches while enjoying every bite.
- Plant-Based: Use almond or oat milk, coconut condensed milk, and cashew cream to create a vegan-friendly version that still delivers on flavor.
- Add Crunch: Include toasted nuts or shredded coconut as a garnish for a delightful textural contrast against the creamy pudding.
Let your imagination guide you—each variation invites you to create a specially tailored experience that reflects your unique taste!
Arroz con Tres Leches (Three Milks Rice Pudding) Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right rice for Arroz con Tres Leches?
Absolutely! Using long-grain white rice is key for this recipe. Look for a variety that’s specifically labeled as long-grain; avoid any that appear excessively sticky or broken. I recommend checking the packaging for the rice type; it’ll ensure your pudding has the perfect chewy texture!
What is the best way to store leftover Arroz con Tres Leches?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will naturally thicken as it sits, but don’t worry! Just stir in a splash of milk before serving to bring it back to that creamy consistency we all love.
Can I freeze Arroz con Tres Leches?
Yes, you can! To freeze this delightful pudding, allow it to cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, and reheat it gently on the stovetop with a bit of milk to restore its creaminess.
What should I do if my pudding turns out too thick?
Not to worry! If your pudding is too thick after cooking, simply add a splash of whole milk or heavy cream while stirring on low heat. This will loosen it up beautifully! Make sure to stir consistently to avoid lumps while achieving the desired creamy texture.
Is Arroz con Tres Leches safe for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! This Arroz con Tres Leches is naturally gluten-free since it uses rice and no gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a wonderful dessert choice for anyone avoiding gluten in their diet, allowing you to indulge without a worry! However, always double-check the labels on specific brands of other ingredients to ensure they meet your needs.
Can I modify the flavors in Arroz con Tres Leches?
Of course! You can absolutely customize the flavors according to your preference. For an added twist, consider substituting almond extract for vanilla or adding a touch of lime zest for a refreshing citrus kick. Feel free to experiment—it’s all about what delights your palate!
Creamy Arroz con Tres Leches: A Colombian Delight to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan, mix the washed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then stir in the cinnamon sticks for added flavor.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender and absorbs most of the water.
- Carefully take out the cinnamon sticks from the rice, readying it for the sweet milk mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Pour the milky blend over the cooked rice, stirring gently to ensure every grain is nestled in the creamy goodness.
- On low heat, continue to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pudding thickens slightly.
- Allow your Arroz con Tres Leches to cool down a bit before serving. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled to your preference.