Creamy Horchata Recipe Homemade Mexican Rice Drink Easy and Perfect
A smooth, sweet, and creamy homemade Mexican rice drink infused with cinnamon, perfect for cooling down or pairing with spicy meals. This easy recipe balances tradition with a silky texture and balanced sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice, rinsed well
- 4 cups (950ml) water, for soaking the rice
- 2 cups (475ml) whole milk (can substitute almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 large cinnamon stick or 2 small cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup (200g) of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Transfer the rinsed rice to a large bowl or pitcher, add 4 cups (950ml) of water and the cinnamon stick. Let soak at room temperature for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and transfer the soaked rice and water into a blender. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the rice breaks down and the mixture looks milky and creamy. Blend in batches if needed.
- Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher. Use a spoon or spatula to press out as much liquid as possible. Discard or save the rice solids for another use.
- Stir in 2 cups (475ml) whole milk, ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk, 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Mix well until sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Refrigerate the horchata for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve over ice and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Notes
Soaking the rice for at least 4 hours or overnight is key for flavor and creaminess. Blend thoroughly for a smooth texture and strain carefully to avoid grit. Adjust sweetness after mixing all ingredients. Stir before serving if thickened. Store refrigerated up to 3 days; do not freeze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 25
- Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Protein: 3
Keywords: horchata, Mexican rice drink, creamy horchata, homemade horchata, cinnamon drink, traditional Mexican beverage, dairy-free horchata, gluten-free drink