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5.0 from 6 votes

Agua de Horchata

This Agua de Horchata recipe brings a nutty twist. The creaminess of almonds, combined with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla, makes a refreshing, not overly sweet drink perfect for warm days.

Prep Time
10 mins
Additional Time
4 hrs
Total Time
4 hrs 10 mins
Servings: 6
Calories: 273 kcal
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

  • 200 g (1 cup) uncooked white rice (jasmine recommended)
  • 2 small cinnamon sticks
  • 50 g (½ cup) whole or slivered almonds
  • 1 (12 oz [354 ml]) evaporated milk
  • 132 g (¾ cup) granulated sugar, plus more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 360 ml (1-½ cups) almond milk or whole milk
  • 1 liter (4-¼ cups) water, divided

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a 72 oz blender, add 1 cup of white rice and blend on high speed until finely ground. Add the almonds, cinnamon sticks, and 2 cups of hot water. Cover the blender and allow the mixture to soak on your counter overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to let the rice hydrate and soften.
  2. Once the mixture is soaked, add sugar, vanilla, evaporated milk, almond milk, and remaining water. Blend again at high speed until smooth and creamy.
  3. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large pitcher and line it with cheesecloth, ensuring it covers the surface. Pour the rice mixture through the cheesecloth-lined strainer into the pitcher, discarding any remaining solids.
  4. Transfer the horchata to a clean pitcher. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed. Chill the horchata in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and cool. Before serving, stir the horchata to mix it well. Serve over plenty of ice for a refreshing drink.
  5. 👀👉 Note: Do not leave horchata at room temperature for more than 30 minutes.

Notes

  • Storage, Make Ahead, & Freezing
  • Storage, Make Ahead, & Freezing
  • Store: Store your horchata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as separation is normal.
  • Make Ahead & Freezing: While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze almond horchata in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge and stir well before serving.
  • Store: Store your horchata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as separation is normal.
  • Make Ahead & Freezing: While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze almond horchata in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge and stir well before serving.