Classic Horchata

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse Long-Grain White Rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and keeps the horchata from tasting chalky.

2. 2

   Add the rinsed Long-Grain White Rice and Cinnamon Stick to a Blender. Pour in 4 cups of warm (not boiling) Water. Stir briefly, then let the rice soak uncovered at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the fridge for the best flavor and creaminess.

3. 3

   After soaking, blend the Long-Grain White Rice and soaking Water on high speed for 2 full minutes until the mixture is as smooth as possible. The liquid will turn milky white.

4. 4

   Place a Sieve lined with two layers of cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the blended rice mixture through in batches, pressing gently with a spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard the rice solids left behind.

5. 5

   To the strained liquid, add 2 cups of Water, Milk, Granulated Sugar, and Pure Vanilla Extract. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 1–2 minutes.

6. 6

   Taste and adjust: add more Granulated Sugar if you prefer it sweeter, more Milk for creaminess, or more Water to thin it out. The flavor should be lightly sweet with a warm Cinnamon note.

7. 7

   Refrigerate until well chilled, at least 30 minutes. Stir or shake well before serving, as the mixture will naturally settle.

8. 8

   Serve over a tall glass packed with Ice. Dust the top with a pinch of Cinnamon for garnish. Stir before each pour — this is normal and part of the charm!