How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, arroz doce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

What can I use instead of whole milk?

You can substitute almond milk or any non-dairy milk, though the texture may slightly vary.

Is short-grain rice necessary?

Short-grain rice is recommended for its creamy texture, but Arborio rice is a good substitute.

Can I reheat arroz doce?

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.

Silken Portuguese Arroz Doce with Cinnamon and Lemon Zest

Name: Silken Portuguese Arroz Doce with Cinnamon and Lemon Zest
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: 1 cup short-grain rice; 2 cups water; 4 cups whole milk; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cinnamon stick; Zest of 1 lemon; 3 egg yolks; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Ground cinnamon for garnish

Traditional Portuguese Rice Pudding

A delightful and creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and brightened with lemon zest, this Portuguese classic is a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.

1 h 30 min
6
Easy

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup short-grain rice

2 cups water

For the Milk Mixture

4 cups whole milk

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cinnamon stick

Zest of 1 lemon

For the Finish

3 egg yolks

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Ground cinnamon for garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Rice

Rinse the rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Boil the water

In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

Simmer the rice

Add the rice, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Infusing the Milk

Combine ingredients

In a separate saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, lemon zest, and cinnamon stick.

Heat the mixture

Heat over low-medium heat until sugar is dissolved and the mixture is warmed through.

⚠ Important: Make sure the milk mixture does not boil to preserve its creamy texture.

Stir occasionally

Stir occasionally to avoid scorching.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heating.

Cooking Process

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the cooked rice, stirring gently.

Timing: Cooking the Rice: 15 minutes. Heat: Low.

Thicken the Mixture

Continue to cook on low heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens, about 20 minutes.

Timing: Cooking with Milk Mixture: 20 minutes. Heat: Low.

Add the Finish

Mix in the egg yolks and butter until smooth and creamy.

Plating & Serving