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Horchata Recipe

Horchata Recipe

This horchata recipe is a creamy, refreshing Mexican drink made with rice, milk, and cinnamon. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for serving chilled.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Soaking Time: 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 287
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds
  • 1 cinnamon stick Ceylon/Mexican cinnamon
  • 6 cups water divided
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon for topping

Equipment

  • Large bowl or pitcher
  • Blender
  • Fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag
  • Large pitcher
  • Spoon

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice under running water until the water runs clear, ensuring excess starch is removed for a cleaner flavor.
  2. Combine the rinsed rice, almonds, cinnamon stick, and part of the water in a large bowl, then cover and refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to develop fully.
  3. Transfer the soaked mixture into a blender with the remaining water and blend thoroughly until the mixture becomes completely smooth and well combined.
  4. Strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag, repeating the process as needed until the texture is smooth and free of grit.
  5. Pour the strained liquid into a large pitcher and stir in the whole milk, evaporated milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated.
  6. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, ensuring the flavor is balanced and smooth.
  7. Serve over ice and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for a classic finish.

Notes

Soaking the rice mixture for at least 8 hours helps develop a deeper, more authentic flavor.
Strain the blended mixture multiple times to remove grit and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
Ceylon cinnamon (Mexican cinnamon) gives the most traditional and aromatic taste.
The horchata naturally separates after sitting, so always stir well before serving.
Chill thoroughly and serve over ice for the most refreshing and balanced flavor.