If you have a sweet tooth and love creamy desserts, this Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. It combines the lusciousness of classic tres leches—those three milks that make everything so heavenly—with the comforting, warm texture of rice pudding. Imagine every bite bursting with velvety milk goodness, a hint of vanilla, and just the right touch of cinnamon that lingers lovingly on your palate. This is not your everyday rice pudding; it’s a rich, soothing treat that feels like a hug in a bowl and can brighten up any day or occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four glass cups filled with a creamy, light yellow rice pudding that has visible grains of rice throughout. Each cup is topped with a large dollop of white whipped cream sprinkled with a light dusting of brown cinnamon powder. The cups are placed on a white marbled surface, with some cinnamon powder scattered near the front cup, which is in clear focus while the others are softly blurred in the background. The cups vary slightly in shape but all have a clear, smooth texture, giving a fresh and inviting look to the dessert photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s fantastic about this Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe is how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a starring role in creating that silky texture, rich flavor, and just the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth that makes this dessert unforgettable.

Water: The base for cooking the rice, it’s the unsung hero that helps achieve the perfect softness.
Medium-Grain Rice: This variety cooks up tender with a slight chew, ideal for creamy puddings.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness brilliantly.
Evaporated Milk: Adds a deep, creamy richness without extra sweetness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Delivers sweetness and thickens the texture for that signature tres leches flavor.
Whole Milk: Balances the milks for smoothness and richness.
Vanilla Bean Paste: Gives a warm, natural vanilla aroma that’s far superior to extract.
Cinnamon: Either mixed in or dusted on top, this spice adds a lovely comforting note.
Heavy Cream: Whipped to perfection on top, it turns the pudding into an extra special treat.
Powdered Sugar: Lightly sweetens the whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Rinse the Rice Thoroughly

Start by rinsing your medium-grain rice 4 to 5 times until the water runs almost clear. This crucial step removes excess surface starch, which prevents your pudding from becoming gummy or sticky. Trust me, skipping this rinse will cost you that silky texture this Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe is celebrated for, so take the time to rinse well.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a large, deep saucepan, bring 5 to 6 cups of water, the rinsed rice, and the salt to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is mostly absorbed. If you notice any leftover water, simply drain it out before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Add the Three Milks

Once the rice is cooked, it’s time to add the magic. Stir in the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring it to a gentle boil, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t overflow—the bubbling madness is real! Then reduce the heat to low and keep stirring constantly for about 18 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking thickens the mixture wonderfully, and remember, the pudding will thicken even more as it cools.

Step 4: Flavor It Up

Now is the perfect moment to taste your creation. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more sweetened condensed milk or sugar. Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla bean paste to elevate the aroma and flavor, making your Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe practically irresistible.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

While your pudding cools slightly, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This fluffy homemade whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture that’s just dreamy when paired with the pudding.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, scoop the rice pudding into bowls and crown with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for that final touch of comfort and spice. Enjoy every luscious spoonful!

How to Serve Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe

Four clear glass small bowls are filled with a creamy light beige pudding layer that has a slightly grainy texture. Each bowl is topped with a soft white whipped cream dollop, sprinkled with a light dusting of reddish-brown cinnamon powder. The bowls are set on a white marbled surface with a small pile of cinnamon powder beside them. A gold spoon is placed on the side, adding a touch of color contrast to the scene. The focus is on the front bowl, with the other three blurred softly in the background, softly lit with natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh toppings bring this Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe to life. Cinnamon is a classic choice, either stirred in or dusted on top. For extra flair, try toasting some slivered almonds or adding fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or mango for a bright and juicy contrast. Even a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can deepen the tropical vibe, making each bite a delight.

Side Dishes

This creamy dessert pairs beautifully with light, tangy sides. Fresh fruit salads or a tart berry compote can cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing balance. If you want a truly indulgent combo, a cup of strong coffee or a rich espresso alongside the Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe will complete the experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by layering the pudding in clear glasses with bits of crushed cookies or cinnamon-spiced nuts for texture. You could also serve it in cute mason jars for a charming, rustic look that’s great for gatherings. Even adding edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel sauce gives this classic dessert a fun twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dessert keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld even more over time, making leftovers just as delicious as fresh. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to restore its velvety texture.

Freezing

While you can freeze the rice pudding, it’s best to do so without the whipped cream topping, which doesn’t always freeze well. Freeze in a sealed container for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh whipped cream before serving for the best results.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent scorching. You can also reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the pudding back to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Medium-grain rice is ideal for this Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe because it absorbs liquids well and cooks to a creamy texture. Short-grain rice could work but may become stickier, while long-grain rice tends to stay separate and less creamy.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice multiple times?

Yes! Rinsing removes surface starch that causes gumminess. This step ensures your pudding is silky and smooth rather than clumpy or overly sticky.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

This classic Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe relies on dairy milks for its signature richness, but you could experiment with coconut milk, almond milk, and sweetened condensed coconut milk substitutes. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be different but still tasty.

How long does it take to thicken the pudding after adding the milks?

It generally takes about 18 to 20 minutes of simmering and constant stirring for the pudding to reach the right thickness. Patience here pays off with a luscious, creamy result.

Can I prepare this dessert the day before serving?

Absolutely! In fact, chilling the pudding overnight allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to set beautifully. Just add the whipped cream topping right before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Final Thoughts

This Tres Leches Rice Pudding Recipe is a celebration of creamy, comforting indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. Whether you’re craving something cozy for a quiet night or an impressive dessert to share with friends, this recipe has your back. Don’t wait for a special occasion—make this luscious pudding your new go-to treat and enjoy every delicious bite.