Imagine a dessert so creamy, so comforting, that it transports you straight to the heart of Mexico with just one spoonful! Our Instant Pot Arroz con Leche is not just a recipe - it's a quick, foolproof culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious rice pudding that will make your taste buds dance. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a dessert that looks like it took hours of careful preparation, impressing family and friends with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- Ground cinnamon (for serving)
Instructions
- Rinse the Arborio rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Add the rinsed rice, whole milk, sugar, and cinnamon stick to the Instant Pot inner pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and ensure sugar begins to dissolve.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting on high pressure.
- Set the cooking time for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take approximately 5-7 minutes to build pressure before cooking begins.
- Once cooking completes, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This helps the rice absorb remaining liquid and become creamy.
- After natural release, carefully quick release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and remove the cinnamon stick.
- Stir in vanilla extract and optional raisins. The mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer the arroz con leche to serving bowls. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for garnish.
- Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. The pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
Tips
- Rice Selection Matters: Use Arborio rice for the creamiest texture. Its high starch content ensures a rich, smooth pudding.
- Rinsing is Crucial: Always rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which prevents a gummy consistency.
- Cinnamon Stick Magic: Let the whole cinnamon stick infuse during cooking for a deeper, more authentic flavor.
- Natural Pressure Release: Don't rush the pressure release - those extra 10 minutes help the rice absorb liquid and become perfectly creamy.
- Customize Your Pudding: Feel free to add raisins, or experiment with toppings like toasted coconut or a drizzle of dulce de leche.
- Storage Tip: This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and some say it tastes even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
