Description
Learn how to make perfect creamy and subtly sweet Horchata at home with simple, plant-based ingredients. This refreshing and soothing drink combines soaked long-grain white rice, aromatic cinnamon, natural maple syrup (natural) sweetness, almond milk (plant-based), and vanilla extract (natural) for a classic yet customizable beverage that’s both dairy-free and budget-friendly. Ideal for a cooling afternoon pick-me-up or a unique drink to impress guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
- 1 cup almond milk (plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- Natural gelling agent (small amount, dissolved in warm water)
Instructions
- Rinse and Soak the Rice and Cinnamon: Thoroughly rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Place the rinsed rice and 2 cinnamon sticks into a large bowl with 4 cups of filtered water. Allow to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften the rice and release the creamy flavor.
- Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the soaked rice, cinnamon sticks, and soaking water into a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and milky, breaking down the rice grains completely.
- Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve or clean cheesecloth into a large pitcher, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard or save the solids for baking if desired.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavors: To the strained liquid, add 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural), 1 cup almond milk (plant-based), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural). Stir well to combine. For a slightly thicker texture, whisk in a small amount of natural gelling agent dissolved in warm water.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the Horchata for at least 2 hours to intensify flavors and ensure it’s refreshingly cool. Stir well before serving over ice.
Notes
- Use a high-speed blender for the creamiest texture.
- Do not skip soaking the rice; it is key to flavor and smoothness.
- Adjust the sweetness after chilling to your taste.
- Try adding star anise or cardamom for a flavorful twist.
- Always serve well chilled, over ice or straight from the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus soaking time
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Blending and soaking
- Cuisine: Traditional Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Horchata, plant-based drink, dairy-free beverage, cinnamon rice drink, vegan horchata, refreshing drink