Authentic Arroz Doce Recipe: Traditional Portuguese Rice Pudding with Lemon and Cinnamon

Arroz Doce is a classic Portuguese dessert that is beloved for its creamy texture and delicate flavor, infused with lemon and cinnamon.

This comforting rice pudding is sweet, aromatic, and a true representation of Portuguese culinary traditions. It’s often served during family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this dessert, the ingredients needed, detailed preparation steps, and tips to make the perfect Arroz Doce.

Arroz Doce is deeply rooted in Portugal’s culinary history. While rice pudding is a popular dessert around the world, the Portuguese version is distinguished by the addition of lemon zest and cinnamon, which give it a unique flavor profile.

This dessert is a staple across Portugal, particularly during traditional holidays like Dia de Todos os Santos (All Saints’ Day), Christmas, and family gatherings.

It’s often prepared during celebrations and festivals, and its sweet, comforting nature makes it ideal for family meals. The dish symbolizes warmth, simplicity, and the richness of Portuguese culinary heritage.

To make a traditional Arroz Doce for about 6 people, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

250 g (about 1 1/4 cups) round rice (preferably Arborio or any dessert rice)
1 liter (4 cups) whole milk
200 g (1 cup) sugar
1 cinnamon stick
Zest of 1 lemon (preferably organic)
4 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For decoration (optional):

Ground cinnamon (for decorative patterns)
Lemon zest or mint leaves (for a touch of freshness)

Step-by-Step Preparation of Arroz Doce

1. Cook the rice :
   Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Then, place the rice in a saucepan with 500 ml (about 2 cups) of water and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, until the water is mostly absorbed by the rice.

2. Add milk and flavorings :
   Once the rice has absorbed the water, add the whole milk to the saucepan along with the cinnamon stick and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the milk.

3. Add sugar and vanilla :
   When the rice is cooked and creamy, add the sugar and vanilla extract. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved, and let the mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

4. Incorporate the egg yolks :
   In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add the egg yolks to the rice mixture, stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs too quickly. This will give the Arroz Doce its smooth and creamy texture. Continue to cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.

5. Remove from heat and let cool :
   Once you reach the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the Arroz Doce to rest for a few minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon zest.

6. Serve and decorate :
   Spoon the Arroz Doce into individual ramekins or a large serving dish. For a traditional presentation, lightly sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top and use a small strainer or stencil to create decorative patterns. You can also garnish with fresh lemon zest or mint leaves for a refreshing touch.

Tips for Perfecting Arroz Doce

Use round rice: Round rice is essential for achieving the creamy, sticky texture of Arroz Doce. Arborio rice, commonly used for risotto, works perfectly as it absorbs the milk and releases starch, creating a rich, creamy consistency. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it will not provide the same creamy texture.

Cook on low heat: To avoid burning the rice or having it become too thick, cook it on low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Don’t overcook the eggs: When incorporating the egg yolks, do it slowly and gently to prevent the eggs from curdling. The goal is to create a smooth, velvety texture without scrambling the eggs.

Add milk gradually: If the pudding becomes too thick, feel free to add a little extra milk to adjust the consistency. The Arroz Doce should be creamy but not too runny.

Let it cool before serving: While this dessert can be served warm, it is traditionally served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Letting it cool allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.

Get creative with toppings: For extra flavor and texture, you can top your Arroz Doce with fresh fruits such as berries or chopped apples. These fruits add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pudding.

Arroz Doce is a simple yet delightful Portuguese dessert that will transport you to the heart of Portugal with its rich, creamy texture and aromatic flavors of lemon and cinnamon. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a holiday celebration or just a cozy family meal, this rice pudding will surely become a favorite in your home.

Follow the steps and tips provided to create a perfect Arroz Doce and enjoy this beloved Portuguese treat with your loved ones! Don’t forget to garnish it with a decorative cinnamon pattern before serving for a traditional and beautiful presentation.