This refreshing Horchata Cinnamon Cream Mocktail is a delightful non-alcoholic beverage inspired by traditional Mexican horchata. It’s perfect for those seeking an alcohol-free option that still delivers rich flavors and a creamy texture.
Made with simple ingredients like rice, cinnamon, and milk, this mocktail is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Refreshing Taste of Horchata
The Horchata Cinnamon Cream Mocktail is a smooth and comforting non-alcoholic beverage that beautifully captures the essence of traditional Mexican flavors.
Its creamy texture and warm spice make it a cozy drink that can be enjoyed year-round, whether on a hot summer afternoon or a cool winter evening.
The balance of natural sweetness and aromatic cinnamon creates an inviting flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
Every sip feels indulgent yet refreshing, making it a standout choice for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a quiet treat at home.
Ingredients That Shine
This mocktail is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver incredible depth of flavor.
Uncooked white rice forms the creamy base, releasing its starches during the soaking process to create a velvety consistency.
A cinnamon stick infuses the mixture with warmth and spice, evoking the traditional essence of horchata.
Milk or a dairy-free alternative adds richness, while sugar brings just the right level of sweetness.
You can easily adjust the sugar to suit your taste, making the drink as light or indulgent as you prefer.
For an extra twist, a splash of vanilla extract can be added to round out the flavors and elevate the aroma.
Preparation Made Easy
Despite its complex flavor, this horchata mocktail is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Begin by rinsing the uncooked rice under cold water to remove excess starch, ensuring a smooth final texture.
Place the rice and cinnamon stick in a bowl or pitcher, cover with water, and let soak for at least four hours, or overnight for a stronger infusion.
This soaking process allows the flavors to meld while softening the rice for easier blending.
By the time it’s ready, the water will have taken on a fragrant cinnamon aroma, setting the stage for a truly delicious drink.
Blending and Straining
Once soaked, transfer the rice, cinnamon stick, and soaking water into a blender.
Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth, breaking down the rice completely.
Next, strain the blended liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids.
This step ensures the horchata has a silky, smooth texture that glides effortlessly over ice.
Take your time during straining to capture every drop of that flavorful liquid, as it’s the heart of the mocktail.
Serving Suggestions
Fill tall glasses with ice cubes to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
Pour the chilled horchata over the ice, allowing it to mingle with the cubes for an inviting, frosty look.
Finish with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon over the top for added aroma and a touch of elegance.
For a festive presentation, consider serving in clear glassware with cinnamon sticks as stirrers.
Pair with Mexican pastries like conchas or churros to create a complete and memorable experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Horchata Cinnamon Cream Mocktail’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for countless occasions.
It can be served at birthday parties, bridal showers, holiday dinners, or simply as a special weekend treat.
Its alcohol-free nature ensures it’s inclusive, allowing both kids and adults to enjoy the same delicious beverage.
The comforting blend of cinnamon and creamy sweetness evokes feelings of warmth and celebration in every sip.
Whether you’re sharing it with guests or savoring it alone, this mocktail always delivers a taste of tradition and joy.
Delicious Alcohol-Free Horchata Mocktail
This mocktail features a blend of creamy horchata, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness, served over ice for a refreshing drink. The recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
- Soak the Rice: In a bowl, combine the rinsed rice and cinnamon stick with 4 cups of water. Let it soak for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
- Blend the Mixture: After soaking, remove the cinnamon stick and blend the rice and water mixture until smooth.
- Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher to separate the liquid from the rice solids.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the horchata mixture over the ice. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Soaking Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 glasses
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g