Description
Horchata is a creamy, sweet Mexican rice drink infused with cinnamon, offering a refreshing and indulgent beverage perfect for hot days or pairing with spicy dishes. This easy homemade version combines rice, cinnamon, and milk (or almond milk), creating a flavorful treat that’s sure to impress. Customize with your favorite sweeteners or milk alternatives for a truly unique drink.
Ingredients
1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
2 Mexican cinnamon sticks
4 cups hot water
2 cups milk or almond milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
⅓ to ½ cup granulated sugar (to taste)
Instructions
- Blend the Rice and Cinnamon: In a blender, combine uncooked rice, 2 cups of hot water, and Mexican cinnamon sticks. Blend until the rice is roughly ground.
- Add Remaining Water: Add the remaining 2 cups of hot water to the blender and blend again until thoroughly mixed.
- Refrigerate: Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Strain: After the resting period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher, discarding the solid rice and cinnamon pieces.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in milk (or almond milk), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sugar to taste. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
- Serve: Serve the horchata over ice and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute with almond milk or another plant-based milk.
- For a tropical twist, add a splash of coconut milk or a few drops of almond extract.
- Adjust sweetness by using agave syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
