horchata - rice drink

San Diego
Updated on Mar 23, 2021

This is how my Grandma used to make this classic agua fresca for us. It is so refreshing and delicious, bringing back fond memories of childhood. MAKES ABOUT 6 CUPS OF HORCHATA. TIme does not include overnight soaking. This can be dairy free - just don't add the milk or use a plant based milk.

prep time 10 Min
cook time
method No-Cook or Other
yield 4 serving(s)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice, long grain
  • 1 small cinnamon stick, broken in two
  • 5 cups water, divided use
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup sugar

How To Make horchata - rice drink

  • Step 1
    In a saucepan or microwave, heat just TWO (2) cups of water until hot. Put the rice and cinnamon stick in a glass bowl or heat-proof pitcher. Pour the hot water over and stir for a moment. Cover with plastic wrap and soak overnight, or at least 8 hours to soften the rice.
  • Step 2
    Pour the rice, cinnamon stick and liquid into a blender jar. Blend until very smooth. Strain the mixture into a bowl, using a spoon to help the liquid pass through the strainer.
  • Step 3
    Add the vanilla, milk, and the remaining 3 cups of water. Add the sugar, stirring until dissolved. Taste and adjust to your taste (more sugar, more milk, more vanilla, etc.). Refrigerate and serve cold over ice. I usually dust ground cinnamon over the top. Be sure to stir before serving, as the rice settles to the bottom.

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