Costa RicanDessert

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Arroz con Dulce is a beloved Costa Rican dessert that transforms simple rice into a rich, creamy indulgence. This traditional sweet rice pudding combines aromatic spices like cinnamon and ginger with the tropical essence of coconut milk, creating layers of flavor that evoke the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality. Sweetened with brown sugar and enhanced with raisins, this dish is traditionally served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion. The slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb all the flavors while achieving a perfectly creamy consistency. Often prepared for family gatherings and celebrations, this comforting dessert represents the heart of Costa Rican home cooking, where simple ingredients are elevated through careful preparation and love.

Instructions

step by step

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In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups of water with the rice and bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the coconut milk, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, grated ginger, and salt to the rice.
Stir well to combine all ingredients and continue cooking over low heat.
Simmer the mixture for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add the raisins and vanilla extract, stirring to incorporate.
Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the rice reaches a creamy, pudding-like consistency.
Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon sticks.
Let the pudding rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve warm in individual bowls, or refrigerate for at least 2 hours to serve chilled.
Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon before serving.

Arroz con Dulce

4.2 (15)

A traditional Costa Rican sweet rice pudding infused with cinnamon, ginger, and creamy coconut milk, creating a warm and comforting dessert perfect for any gathering or family meal.

easy

55 min

8 servings

Ingredients

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Base

2 cups Rice White, rinsed
2 cups Coconut, coconut milk
2 cups Milk, whole milk preferred

Sweeteners

3/4 cups Honey, or brown sugar

Spices

2 teaspoons Cinnamon, ground
1 teaspoons Ginger, freshly grated

Flavorings

2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

Seasonings

1/4 teaspoons Salt

Add-ins

1/2 cups Grape, raisins (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice

•Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less brown sugar.

•The pudding will thicken as it cools, so if you prefer it thinner, add a splash of milk when reheating.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own

•For extra richness, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.

•For a more authentic flavor, use freshly grated ginger instead of ground.

•You can also add a splash of rum for an adult version.

•If raisins are not preferred, substitute with chopped dried pineapple or mango for a tropical twist.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh

Storage

Store the Arroz con Dulce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pudding will thicken when chilled, which is normal. If it becomes too thick, stir in a small amount of milk before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring constantly. Add a splash of milk or coconut milk to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through. If serving cold, simply remove from refrigerator 10 minutes before serving and stir well.