Arroz con leche, a creamy and delicious rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, is a traditional Latin American dessert enjoyed by many. It’s straightforward to make and only requires a few common ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make arroz con leche.

1. Gather your ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white rice (preferably short-grain)

– 2 cups water

– 4 cups whole milk

– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

– 2 cinnamon sticks

– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla pod

– Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

– Ground cinnamon, for garnish

2. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.

3. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for around 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.

4. Add the milk: Once the rice has absorbed the water, stir in whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla extract (or seeds from the vanilla pod). If using lemon zest, add it now.

5. Simmer gently: With the saucepan uncovered, let it simmer over low heat for approximately 30-40 minutes or until you achieve your desired consistency; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Check for doneness: The arroz con leche should have a creamy texture but still maintain individual grains of rice. At this point taste-test for sweetness and add more sweetened condensed milk if desired.

7. Remove from heat: Once ready, take the saucepan off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to release some steam.

8. Dispose of the cinnamon sticks: Remove and discard the used cinnamon sticks and lemon zest (if used).

9. Let it cool: Allow the arroz con leche to cool down at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, while it thickens slightly.

10. Serve: Spoon the arroz con leche into individual serving bowls or cups.

11. Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle each serving with a bit of ground cinnamon and serve either warm or chilled, as per your preference.

Now you know how to make this classic dessert in 11 simple steps! Enjoy your homemade arroz con leche on its own or accompanied by fresh fruit or cookies.