Arroz Doce
AI-generated image
Vegetarian Gluten-free Portuguese

Arroz Doce

A silky Portuguese rice pudding gently simmered with lemon, cinnamon, and milk until creamy, then finished with a classic cinnamon pattern. Serve it chilled or just warm for a softly fragrant dessert with tender grains and a glossy custard-like texture.

55 min 6 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Combine the water, rice, lemon zest, and cinnamon stick in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water is nearly absorbed and the rice is just tender.
2
Remove the lemon zest and cinnamon stick. Gradually stir in the warm milk, then return the pan to a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the grains are tender and the mixture is creamy but still fluid.
Creamy rice pudding simmering in a saucepan with tender grains AI-generated image
3
Stir in 135 g of the sugar and continue simmering for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly near the end, until the sugar dissolves and the pudding coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil vigorously.
4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the pudding rest for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed; the mixture should remain slightly looser than the final serving consistency.
5
Divide the warm pudding among six shallow serving dishes. Cool at room temperature for 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours if serving chilled.
6
Just before serving, use the reserved 1 tablespoon of sugar and the ground cinnamon to create a light crosshatch or diamond pattern on each portion. Serve chilled or gently warm.
Arroz doce finished with a traditional cinnamon pattern AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Short-grain rice releases starch as it simmers, creating body without eggs or flour. Lemon zest keeps the rich milk fragrant and bright, while cinnamon adds the unmistakable Portuguese character.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Press parchment or plastic wrap directly against the surface to limit a skin from forming.

How to reheat it

Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between intervals, or warm in a saucepan over low heat with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk per serving. Do not boil.

Nutrition / serving

291kcal
7.13 gprotein
53.65 gcarbs
5.67 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 21 Aug 2026 · updated 21 Aug 2026