Description
This creamy horchata recipe offers a refreshing and rich homemade drink perfectly blending the warm spice of cinnamon with the smooth creaminess of rice and milk. Chilled and sweetened just right, it’s an ultimate thirst-quencher ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 4 cups water
- 2 sticks cinnamon sticks
Dairy & Sweeteners
- 2 cups whole milk (can substitute with almond or oat milk)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
Flavorings & Garnish
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups ice
Instructions
- Pulse Rice and Water: Combine the uncooked long grain white rice and water in a food processor or blender, pulsing until the mixture reaches a slightly textured consistency, which helps in breaking down the rice for creaminess.
- Infuse with Cinnamon: Transfer the rice mixture along with the two cinnamon sticks into a large pitcher or bowl. Cover securely and place it in the refrigerator to chill and steep overnight, allowing the cinnamon flavor to infuse thoroughly.
- Strain Mixture: After chilling, pour the rice mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove solids and cinnamon sticks, resulting in a smooth liquid base for the horchata.
- Add Creaminess and Sweeten: Stir in the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon into the strained mixture until fully combined, achieving a rich and creamy texture with balanced sweetness and flavor.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the creamy horchata over the ice, and finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon for a visual and aromatic touch. Enjoy chilled for the best refreshment.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk.
- Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Letting the mixture soak overnight is critical for maximum flavor development.
- If you prefer a thinner texture, add more water or milk to dilute.
- The cinnamon sticks can be reused once to infuse another batch or in oatmeal for added flavor.
