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Creamy Arroz Doce rice pudding dusted with cinnamon
Creamy rice pudding enriched with egg yolks and cinnamon

Creamy Portuguese Rice Pudding (Arroz Doce)

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Cakes and Desserts
A national pride of Portugal, Arroz Doce is more than just rice pudding; it's a masterpiece of texture. The secret lies in slowly releasing the starch and creating a rich emulsion with egg yolks. Unlike quick versions, the rice is first softened in water to open the grains, then finished in milk and egg custard for a silky result, brightened by fresh lemon zest.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 35 mins
⌛ Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 420 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Portuguese

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Heavy-Bottomed Pot
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Zester
  • Heatproof Spatula

Allergen Information

⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Egg

Instructions

1 ✓

Rinse the rice briefly (don't over-wash; we need some starch). Place in pot with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt.

Tip: Salt enhances sweetness and vanilla flavor.
2 ✓

Boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the water is almost entirely absorbed and the rice exterior is soft but the center is still al dente.

Tip: This step gelatinizes the starch, setting the stage for the creamy texture.
3 ✓

Add the milk. Simmer over low heat, stirring constantly, until the rice is fully tender and the liquid begins to thicken.

Tip: The milk fats coat the grains for a rich mouthfeel.
4 ✓

In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until pale.

Tip: Sugar protects the yolks from heat shock (raises coagulation temperature).
5 ✓

Temper the eggs: Slowly ladle some hot rice mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly. Then, pour everything back into the pot.

Tip: Gradual heating prevents scrambled eggs.
6 ✓

Cook for 1-2 more minutes on very low heat, stirring until thickened like custard. Remove from heat.

Tip: Do not boil, or the yolks will curdle.
7 ✓

Ladle into bowls, let cool for 15 minutes, and dust generously with cinnamon.

Tip: The pudding will set to the perfect consistency as it cools.

Recipe FAQ

Why did the pudding curdle?
The rice was too hot when you added the eggs, or you didn't whisk fast enough. Tempering is key!
Can I refrigerate it?
Yes, for 2-3 days, but it will thicken. Stir in a splash of milk before serving.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Short Grain Rice (Arborio)
  • 2 cups Water
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 3/4 cup Sugar
  • 3 large Egg Yolks (room temp)
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 whole Lemon (zest only)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 pinch Salt