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Glass of authentic horchata recipe with ice cubes, cinnamon powder dust, and cinnamon stick, next to a jar filled with horchata on a rustic wooden table.
SavorAndSpice

Authentic Horchata Recipe Made the Mexican Way

This authentic horchata recipe is creamy, refreshing, and deliciously classic - just like the Mexican rice drink you’ll find at local taquerias in Mexico. It’s made with rice, cinnamon, vanilla, and a hint of sweetness for that traditional flavor everyone loves. It’s simple to make at home, budget-friendly, and tastes even better when served ice-cold. A comforting and nostalgic Mexican drink that pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, and weekend family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
soak time & blend 6 hours 2 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 12 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverage, Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cold water for blending & thinning
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk OR evaporated milk more creamy & more authentic taqueria texture
  • ½ cup granulated sugar adjust sweeter to taste
  • 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 medium cinnamon stick
  • pinch of salt optional but enhances flavor
optional add-ins
  • ⅛ tsp almond extract - boosts authentic Mexican horchata flavor
  • ice for chilling + serving

Equipment

  • 1 Blender
  • 1 Jar for soaking rice
  • 1 Fine mesh strainer cheesecloth can also be used.

Method
 

  1. Rinse & Soak Rice: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, cinnamon stick, and 2 cups hot water. Soak for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  2. Blend Rice Mixture: Transfer soaked rice + cinnamon + soaking water to a blender. Add 3 cups cold water and blend 60-90 seconds until smooth and milky.
  3. Strain the mixture: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove rice solids.
  4. Sweeten & Flavor: Stir in ½ cup sugar, 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract, and 1 ½ cups milk (optional for creaminess). Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  5. Chilling: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Add ice just before serving for an extra refreshing drink.
  6. Serve: Pour into glasses, optionally sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top, and enjoy your authentic horchata!

Notes

  • Soaking Rice: For the creamiest and most authentic horchata, soak rice at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
  • Sweetness: Adjust sugar to taste & start with ½ cup and add more if desired.
  • Dairy Options: Traditional horchata is naturally dairy-free; add milk or evaporated milk for a richer, creamier version.
  • Serving: Serve ice-cold over a glass of ice, sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon for a café-style touch.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight pitcher in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving, as natural sediment from rice may settle.