Classic Mexican Horchata

Save this recipe on:

Creamy, nutty, and delightfully spiced, Classic Mexican Horchata is the drink you didn’t know you needed in your life. This traditional beverage blends white rice, cinnamon, and vanilla into a cool, sweetened drink that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for cooling off on a hot day or pairing with your favorite Mexican dishes, horchata is beloved for its velvety texture and nostalgic flavor.

What makes horchata so special is how something so simple can feel so rich. Soaked rice infuses water with its starches, creating a naturally creamy base without any dairy. Cinnamon and a hint of vanilla round out the flavor, while milk (dairy or non-dairy) gives it that final smooth finish. Whether you serve it over ice or blend it for extra froth, it’s always a hit at gatherings or a quiet afternoon treat.

---

What Kind of Rice Should I Use for Horchata?

Long grain white rice is the traditional go-to for horchata. Its neutral flavor and starchy content make it ideal for soaking and blending. Jasmine rice or basmati can add a subtle floral note, but stick to plain white rice if you want to preserve that authentic, classic flavor.

---

Ingredients for the Classic Mexican Horchata

White Rice: The foundation of horchata, white rice gives the drink its creamy body and mild flavor.

Cinnamon Stick: Soaked with the rice, it infuses warm, aromatic spice into every sip.

Water: Used for soaking and blending, it helps extract the starches from the rice.

Evaporated Milk (or Almond Milk): Adds richness and depth. Use dairy-free alternatives if preferred.

Sweetened Condensed Milk (or Sugar): Provides sweetness and a bit of thickness. Sugar can be used for a lighter version.

Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the flavor with a sweet, fragrant finish.

Ground Cinnamon (for garnish): Sprinkled on top for a touch of spice and visual appeal.

---

How To Make the Classic Mexican Horchata

Step 1: Soak the Rice and Cinnamon

Combine white rice and a cinnamon stick with water in a large container. Cover and soak overnight (or for at least 6 hours) to soften the rice and infuse the water with flavor.

Step 2: Blend the Mixture

Transfer the soaked rice, cinnamon, and water to a high-speed blender. Blend until the rice and cinnamon are as finely ground as possible.

Step 3: Strain It

Using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, strain the mixture into a pitcher to remove any grainy bits. You may need to do this twice for a smooth texture.

Step 4: Sweeten and Add Milk

Stir in evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk (or your preferred alternatives). Adjust sweetness to taste.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate until cold. When ready to serve, pour over ice and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.

---

Serving and Storing Your Horchata

Serve your Classic Mexican Horchata ice-cold for the most refreshing experience. If you’re serving at a party, keep it chilled in a glass pitcher with a cinnamon stick for garnish. It pairs beautifully with spicy or savory foods, helping to balance out bold flavors.

Store horchata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir or shake well before serving, as natural separation is normal.

---

What to Serve With Classic Mexican Horchata?

Spicy Tacos

The creaminess of horchata cools the heat of spicy carne asada or al pastor tacos.

Churros

A sweet and crispy partner that complements the cinnamon notes in horchata.

Mole Enchiladas

The richness of mole pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of this drink.

Street Corn (Elote)

The creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors of elote are mellowed out by horchata’s smoothness.

Tamales

Horchata makes a great contrast to the dense, savory texture of tamales.

Pan Dulce (Mexican Sweet Bread)

Enjoy horchata as a breakfast or afternoon treat alongside a concha or empanada.

Spicy Chips and Guacamole

Balance that heat with a chilled glass of horchata.

Barbacoa Tacos

Hearty, tender barbacoa pairs wonderfully with the creamy backdrop of horchata.

---

Want More Drink Ideas?

If you love this Classic Mexican Horchata, you’ll want to check out these other delicious drink recipes on ChefAlchemy:

• Cream Cheese Flan if you’re in the mood for silky, dessert-like indulgence.
• The Best Texas Roadhouse Cinnamon Honey Butter Recipe for a perfect pairing spread on toast.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole to enjoy with a tall glass of horchata at brunch.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites if you’re craving cinnamon-spiced breakfast ideas.
• Cream Cheese Olive Spread for savory snacking alongside this drink.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest drinks board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how your horchata turned out! Did you go dairy-free? Add extra cinnamon? I love hearing your custom twists on this classic.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and discover your new go-to refreshment!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: