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Homemade Best Ever Horchata recipe photo

Best Ever Horchata

This Best Ever Horchata is refreshingly creamy! A delightful blend of rice, cinnamon, and vanilla, perfect for cooling down on hot days.
Prep Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

For the Horchata:
  • 1 cup uncooked rice rinsed
  • 6 cups water divided
  • 2 sticks cinnamon
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup sugar adjust to preference

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Strainer or cheesecloth
  • Large bowl or pitcher
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Directions:
  1. Begin by rinsing the uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a bowl and add 2 cups of water. Let it soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  2. After soaking, drain the rice and transfer it to a blender. Add the remaining 4 cups of water and the cinnamon sticks. Blend on high until the rice is finely ground and the mixture is creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the blended mixture into a large bowl or pitcher. Press down gently to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the rice solids or save them for another recipe.
  4. To the strained liquid, stir in the whole milk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
  5. Refrigerate the horchata for at least an hour to chill. Serve over ice and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; shake before serving.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk.
  • To make horchata thicker, reduce water or add more rice when blending.