Creamy Spanish Arroz Con Leche (Ready-to-Print Version)

A silky, cinnamon-spiced Spanish dessert with creamy milks, raisins, and lemon zest for a cozy finish.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup raw long-grain white rice

→ Liquids

02 - 3 cups water
03 - 2 cups whole milk
04 - 1 can (12 fl oz) evaporated milk
05 - 1 can (14 fl oz) sweetened condensed milk
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Spices and Flavorings

07 - 2 cinnamon sticks
08 - 4 whole cloves
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
11 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
12 - Pinch ground nutmeg
13 - Ground cinnamon, for garnish

→ Add-ins

14 - 1/2 cup raisins

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Rinse the rice under cool water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain thoroughly and place in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan.
02 - Add water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, butter, and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and most water is absorbed.
03 - Turn off the heat and remove cinnamon sticks and cloves with a spoon, leaving the rice and remaining liquid in the pan.
04 - Return heat to low and pour in whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well to combine and loosen the rice.
05 - Cook uncovered on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, about 20 to 25 minutes.
06 - Stir in raisins, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until raisins plump and flavors meld.
07 - If the pudding is too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk. Serve warm garnished with ground cinnamon and extra raisins, or chill for firmer texture.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Use a heavy-bottomed pot to evenly distribute heat and prevent scorching.
02 - Maintain a gentle simmer after adding milks to avoid curdling.
03 - Stir frequently to achieve a velvety texture and prevent sticking.
04 - Sweetened condensed milk is very sweet; adjust seasoning to taste.
05 - Chill for at least two hours for neat scoops; stir with cold milk to loosen if needed.

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