Description
Make refreshing, creamy, and naturally sweetened Horchata at home using simple plant-based ingredients including rice, almond milk, cinnamon, and vanilla. This authentic Mexican drink balances spices and sweetness for a delightful beverage perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 4 cups filtered water (for soaking)
- 2 cinnamon sticks (natural)
- 2 cups almond milk (plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (natural)
- Ice cubes (as needed)
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (natural gelling agent)
Instructions
- Soak the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a large bowl with 4 cups of filtered water and add 2 cinnamon sticks (natural). Let soak at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften the rice and infuse cinnamon flavor.
- Blend the Mixture: Remove the cinnamon sticks, then transfer the soaked rice and water to a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is milky and smooth with no grainy bits.
- Strain the Liquid: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible leaving a smooth, creamy base.
- Add Flavors and Sweetener: Stir in 2 cups almond milk (plant-based), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural), and 3 tablespoons maple syrup (natural). Taste and adjust sweetness or vanilla as desired.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the horchata for at least 2 hours. Serve over ice with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top. If using chia seeds (natural gelling agent), stir them in now and let the drink rest a bit longer so they swell and add texture.
Notes
- Use fresh ground cinnamon and pure vanilla extract (natural) for best flavor.
- Soak rice for longer periods for creamier and more flavorful horchata.
- Adjust maple syrup gradually to control sweetness.
- Ensure thorough blending for a smooth texture.
- Serve horchata well chilled for optimal refreshment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus at least 4 hours soaking
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Horchata, Mexican drink, plant-based beverage, cinnamon rice drink, refreshing drink
