Arroz con Leche: A Classic Argentine Dessert That Brings Families Together
Arroz con leche is one of those Argentine recipes that shows up in every kind of home: simple, sweet, and quietly unforgettable. Creamy, gently fragrant, and finished with cinnamon, it is a dessert that crosses generations and social backgrounds alike-served after Sunday lunch, shared at family gatherings, and remembered as a childhood favorite that adults still return to. That is why it matters in Argentine culture: it is comfort, nostalgia, and a gently sweet tradition you can repeat anywhere.
Ingredients
• 1 cup white rice (short or medium grain)
• 4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup sugar (to taste)
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Optional: lemon peel (1–2 strips) and/or raisins
How to make it (simple steps)
1) Rinse the rice under cold water. In a medium pot, combine rice, milk, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer.
2) Cook slowly over medium-low heat, stirring often, until creamy and the rice is tender (about 30–40 minutes total).
3) Add sugar halfway through, then stir in vanilla at the end. Remove the cinnamon stick (and lemon peel, if used).
How to serve
Serve warm for a cozy dessert, or chill for at least 2 hours and serve cold. Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon.
Make it once, and you will understand why arroz con leche became so popular in Argentina: it is made from everyday ingredients, but it carries family memory. Enjoy it slowly - ideally at a table where people stay a little longer. If you would like more stories and recipes, explore Other articles here. To learn more about Vakiano, visit About Vakiano, or reach out via Contact. For pieces made for shared meals, explore Table. If you would like to explore other Vakiano pieces beyond the table, browse the full collection.
THIS NOTE IN BRIEF
A short guide to arroz con leche (Argentine rice pudding): why it matters in Argentine culture, what it connects us to, and how to make and serve it warm or cold.
Why is arroz con leche important in Argentine culture?
It is a classic, home-style dessert shared across generations and social backgrounds - strongly tied to family gatherings and childhood memories.
What does arroz con leche connect Argentinians to?
It connects people to grandparents, Sunday lunches, and the feeling of home through a comforting, familiar flavor.
When did arroz con leche become popular in Argentina?
It became widely popular as a family dessert over many decades because it uses everyday pantry ingredients and is easy to make at home.
Should arroz con leche be served warm or cold?
Both are traditional: warm for comfort, cold for a refreshing dessert - cinnamon on top either way.
0 comments