1-First: rinse the rice if needed, then combine 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice, 2 cups hot water, and 2 Mexican cinnamon sticks in a blender as per the recipe. Blend until the rice and cinnamon are roughly ground, taking care to pulse for even results. Add the remaining 2 cups of hot water and blend again to mix everything well.

2-After blending, pour the mixture into a covered container and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to let flavors develop. Once chilled, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher, discarding the rice solids for a smooth finish. Stir in 2 cups milk or almond milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and ⅓ to 1/2 cup sugar to taste, adjusting based on your preference.

3-Chill the horchata until ready to serve, and don’t forget to stir it well before pouring over ice. This method, including the preparation time of a few minutes for blending plus soaking, makes Horchata Recipe a go-to for home cooks.