Delicious Arroz Con Dulce Recipe: A Sweet Symphony

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’ll be sharing with you one of my all-time favorite Puerto Rican desserts: Arroz Con Dulce- also known as Sweet Rice Pudding. If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dessert that will make your taste buds dance, then you’re in the right place!

Arroz Con Dulce is a traditional dessert from Puerto Rico that is usually served during holidays or special occasions. Its creamy texture, warm spices, and sweet raisins will transport you straight to the Caribbean. It’s a dish that is enjoyed by Puerto Ricans all over the world and has become a staple in many Latin households.

This recipe made with coconut rice, warm spices, milk, and raisins is a tasty twist on the traditional Arroz Con Dulce recipe. It’s made creamy with milk and coconut milk, sweet with brown sugar and raisins, and has a delightful aroma thanks to the cinnamon sticks and lime zest.

Whether you are a fan of classic rice pudding or simply love discovering new tasting dishes, this Arroz Con Dulce recipe is perfect for you! So let’s get cooking and create this tasty traditional dessert that will surely bring joy to your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arroz Con Dulce ( Sweet Rice Pudding)
Arroz Con Dulce ( Sweet Rice Pudding)

Get ready for a mouth-watering culinary experience with this delicious recipe of Arroz Con Dulce. Trust me, once you taste this appetizing traditional Puerto Rican rice pudding, you’ll be hooked for life.

The recipe is made with creamy rice that’s cooked with warm spices, coconut milk, golden raisins, and lime zest – all topped off with a sprinkle of cinnamon. This combination of ingredients creates a rich and flavorful dessert that will leave all your senses tingling.

Not only is it scrumptious, but it’s also easy to make with ingredients readily found in any local grocery store. You don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets or years of experience to pull off this dish. Just follow the instructions and you’ll have an amazing dessert ready in no time.

The best part? This recipe is extremely versatile! You can make it as a stand-alone dessert for a dinner party or small gathering. Or, you can even serve it up as a special treat on holidays such as Christmas or Thanksgiving, which are especially popular times for Arroz Con Dulce in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

So why not try something new today? Indulge yourself in the sweet delectable flavors of Arroz Con Dulce and find out what makes this recipe a classic favorite amongst Puerto Ricans and Dominicans alike.

Ingredient List

 Creamy and sweet, this Arroz Con Dulce will melt in your mouth!
Creamy and sweet, this Arroz Con Dulce will melt in your mouth!

Let’s dive into the ingredient list for this tasty traditional recipe made with creamy rice, warm spices, coconut milk, raisins and yummy brown sugar.

Rice and Aromatics

  • 1 cup of short-grain rice
  • 1 cinnamon stick or 2 if you love a strong cinnamon flavor
  • 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4-5 whole cloves

The Pudding ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 can of 14 oz. evaporated milk or condensed milk
  • 1 can of 14 oz. coconut milk
  • 1 cup Golden raisins
  • Zest of one lime (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of butter or more according to your preference
  • ¾ -1 cup brown sugar depending on how sweet you want it

In Puerto Rico, this dish is usually prepared during the “Fiestas de la calle San Sebastián” held annually in January, but there’s no need to wait until then to enjoy delicious Arroz con Dulce.

The Recipe How-To

 A traditional dessert in many Latin American countries, this recipe is a must-try.
A traditional dessert in many Latin American countries, this recipe is a must-try.

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Take 1 cup of short-grain rice and rinse it in cold water until you see clear water running over the rice. This helps remove excess starch that makes the rice too sticky.

Step 2: Boil Rice and Cinnamon Sticks

In a medium-size saucepan, boil 2 cups of water with 2 cinnamon sticks for about one minute. Add the rinsed rice and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce heat to a low simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the water.

Step 3: Add Milk, Evaporated milk, coconut milk, cinnamon stick, ginger, butter, sugar, spices, raisins, and salt

In a separate pot, whisk together 1 can of evaporated milk and 1 cup of milk. Add coconut milk, along with an additional cinnamon stick, inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and cut into chunks, one tablespoon of butter, one cup of sugar, a pinch of salt, sweet brown sugar (optional), and spices (optional). Stir to combine these ingredients and let simmer for about 10 minutes or until well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Both Mixtures

Add this mixture to your saucepan with your cooked rice by pouring it slowly as you stir the rice continuously. Set stove unto low heat Cover and cook for another 30 minutes, stirring every now and then to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Let The Mixture Cool

When done, take out your cooked Arroz Con Dulce from heat and let it cool for twenty minutes. Be patient! This will help give Arroz Con Dulce its creamy texture.

Your Arroz Con Dulce-puertorriqueño is now ready to be served. Scoop it into bowls and sprinkle it with some toasted coconut, raisins, or even lime zest for a bit of freshness.

Enjoyo!

Substitutions and Variations

 Topped with toasted coconut flakes, this rice pudding is a tropical delight.
Topped with toasted coconut flakes, this rice pudding is a tropical delight.

If you want to put your own twist on the traditional Arroz Con Dulce recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make.

Firstly, you can experiment with different types of rice. While short-grain rice is typically used for this dish, long-grain or medium-grain white rice could be great alternatives too. These variations can be especially useful if you don’t have any short-grain rice on hand.

If you’re looking to change up the spice profile of the recipe, consider swapping out the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves for other warm spices that complement the coconut flavor. For example, you can add a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and cut into chunks to the pot while the rice cooks.

You can also try using different types of milk or dairy substitutes for lactose intolerant folks. Oat milk or almond milk is a great substitute if you’re looking to go dairy-free. You can also switch up the coconut milk for evaporated milk or condensed milk for a creamier texture.

For a fruity twist, add diced golden raisins or lime zest to the pudding ingredients. The raisins add chewiness and sweetness, while lime zest adds a tangy burst of flavor that complements the coconut sweetness of the dish.

Finally, you can make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet by using glutinous rice instead of regular short-grain rice.

Arroz con dulce is a classic Puerto Rican and Dominican Republic dessert that has developed into a beloved holiday tradition in many households. With these simple substitutions and tweaks, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with your own tasty take on this traditional sweet rice pudding recipe.

Serving and Pairing

 Indulge in a bowl of warm and comforting arroz con dulce on a chilly evening.
Indulge in a bowl of warm and comforting arroz con dulce on a chilly evening.

Arroz con Dulce is a tasty traditional dessert that can be served warm or chilled. It’s creamy rice with warm spices, coconut milk, golden raisins, and lime zest make it a perfect dessert after any meal.

To serve, simply sprinkle some cinnamon powder over the top of the pudding for an extra layer of flavor. The result is a visually appealing dessert that tastes as great as it looks.

You can also pair this dessert with a cup of coffee, espresso, or tea for a delicious and comforting end to your meal. Additionally, you can pair it with fresh fruit like mango, guava, or papaya to add more Caribbean flavors to the dish.

Another great way to enjoy this Puerto Rican rice pudding is by topping it with whipped cream before serving. The result is a decadent dessert that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Arroz con Dulce is commonly served during Puerto Rican holidays or special occasions. However, once you try this deliciously sweet and creamy dessert, you’ll surely want to make it all year round.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dessert is the perfect way to end your meal.
With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dessert is the perfect way to end your meal.

Looking to make-ahead, store and reheat your delicious Sweet Rice Pudding, better known as Arroz con Dulce? Look no further! This traditional Puerto Rican dessert can easily be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can even be frozen for longer storage periods.

When storing your Arroz con Dulce, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to a container. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing the pudding. Stored properly, it can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

To reheat, scoop out the desired amount of Sweet Rice Pudding into a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan. You can add a splash of milk or coconut milk to loosen it up if it has thickened during storage. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally, or on medium heat for a few minutes until heated through.

You can also enjoy your Arroz con Dulce cold as a refreshing dessert on a warm day by storing it in the refrigerator until chilled.

So go ahead and make a large batch next time you’re craving something sweet or need to feed a crowd. This make-ahead, store and reheat method will save you time and effort while still delivering that creamy and comforting Puerto Rican flavor whenever you desire it!

Tips for Perfect Results

 This dish is like a hug in a bowl, it's warm and comforting and will leave you feeling satisfied.
This dish is like a hug in a bowl, it’s warm and comforting and will leave you feeling satisfied.

In order to achieve the best outcome when making Arroz con Dulce, it is important to follow these tips for perfect results:

1. Use short-grain rice: This kind of rice is perfect for this recipe, as it has a higher starch content, which will give the dessert a creamy consistency.

2. Rinse the rice before cooking: Before adding the rice to the pot, rinse it under cold water until clear. This step eliminates any excess starch and prevents clumping.

3. Incorporate the right spices: Make sure to use warm spices such as cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ginger in your pudding ingredients. These spices will infuse the dessert with a rich aroma and flavor.

4. Cook the rice low and slow: Your goal with Arroz con Dulce is to make creamy rice pudding with perfectly cooked grains of rice. Take your time and let your ingredients simmer over low-medium heat.

5. Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for ingredients of high quality, such as fresh lime zest and golden raisins. When cooking with only top-notch ingredients, you are sure to get an outstanding result.

6. Stir frequently: Be sure to mix your pudding regularly while it cooks in order to avoid sticking and ensure evenly distributed flavors.

7. Adjust the sweetness level: Taste the pudding during cooking, adding more brown sugar if you want your dessert sweeter.

With these tips in mind, making Arroz con Dulce at home will be a great success!

FAQ

As with any recipe, you might have some questions or concerns before diving in. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions with answers to help you make your delicious Arroz Con Dulce (Sweet Rice Pudding) with ease.

What’s the difference between arroz con dulce and arroz con leche?

Arroz con dulce and arroz con leche are two popular rice-based desserts. These dishes differ in the type of rice used, as arroz con dulce is made with short-grain rice, while arroz con leche requires the use of long-grain rice. Furthermore, arroz con dulce is typically seasoned with coconut and spices, whereas arroz con leche is sweetened with milk and sugar.

Is sweet rice and rice pudding the same thing?

One type of rice, glutinous rice, sticks together due to its high starch content, whereas another variety, pudding rice, does not exhibit this stickiness. The starch level in glutinous rice makes it useful in dishes such as rice balls and sushi.

What is arroz con dulce made of?

Looking for an exquisite dessert idea? Why not try the traditional Puerto Rican Arroz con Dulce recipe. The rich and creamy rice, infused with warm spices, coconut milk, raisins, coconut, and sweet brown sugar will transcend your palate to a whole new level of flavor sensations. This Puerto Rican rice pudding is a sweet and delectable way to treat your taste buds.

How long does arroz con dulce last in the fridge?

To extend the lifespan of your Arroz con Dulce, you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. If it has been frozen, simply transfer it to the fridge for defrosting before consumption.

Bottom Line

:

If you want to experience a sweet and indulgent dessert that will transport you to the tropical lands of Puerto Rico, then Arroz Con Dulce is the recipe for you. This tasty traditional dish made with creamy rice, warm spices, coconut milk, raisins, and sweet brown sugar is simply irresistible.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, you won’t regret giving this recipe a try. Not only is it easy to make, but it also has endless variations that can be adapted to your personal taste and preferences.

So go ahead and be bold! Get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different ingredients like pineapple chunks, vanilla extract, or even rum. And don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family—they’ll love you for it!

In conclusion, Arroz Con Dulce is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the flavors of Puerto Rico and wants to experience a taste of the tropics. So why not give it a try? I promise your taste buds won’t be disappointed!

Arroz Con Dulce ( Sweet Rice Pudding)

Arroz Con Dulce ( Sweet Rice Pudding) Recipe

This is a traditional dessert for parties and special occasions. or for everyday enjoyment
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine Puerto Rican
Calories 271.5 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup uncooked short-grain rice or 1 cup instant rice
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons grated lime zest
  • 1/2 cup golden raisin
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions
 

  • Combine first 4 ingredients in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Stir in rice. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 10 mins or until liquid is almost absorbed, stiring occasionally. discard cinnamon stick. Stir in milk, sugar, and rind; bring to a boil over medium heat , stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 25 minutes or until mixture thinkens and becomes creamy, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Stir in golden raisins and vanilla.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 239gCalories: 271.5kcalCarbohydrates: 51.9gProtein: 5.9gFat: 4.6gSaturated Fat: 2.8gCholesterol: 15.9mgSodium: 154.6mgFiber: 1.4gSugar: 18.3g
Keyword < 60 Mins, Dessert, Easy, Inexpensive, Rice, Short-Grain Rice, White Rice
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Dora

Dora

Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.