If you’re a fan of cozy drinks that feel like a warm hug in a cup, then this Creamy Horchata Latte is going to be your new obsession. Imagine the rich, spiced sweetness of traditional horchata blending beautifully with the smooth boldness of coffee. It’s creamy, comforting, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re treating yourself on a slow weekend morning or need a pick-me-up that tastes like dessert, trust me—this one’s a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Horchata Latte
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect hot or iced, it suits every season and every mood.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and costs way less than any fancy coffee shop version.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in minutes—no fancy tools needed.
Customizable: Use your favorite milk, adjust the sweetness, or go caffeine-free—it’s all up to you.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Creamy Horchata Latte
Here’s the magic of this latte—it’s made with a few cozy ingredients, but the result is a creamy, cinnamon-kissed drink you’ll crave again and again. Let’s break it down:
Rice Milk: The base of the horchata, giving it that classic, slightly nutty flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and sweetness—like a velvety hug for your taste buds.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances all the warm flavors.
Cinnamon: The star spice here. It gives that unmistakable horchata charm.
Espresso or Strong Coffee: Balances the sweetness with a bold kick.
Milk or Cream: Makes everything luscious and frothy. Use your favorite!
Ice (Optional): If you’re making this iced, it’s a must for that refreshing chill.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: If you’re enjoying this hot, start by heating your milk or cream in a small saucepan until warm but not boiling.
Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl or pitcher, combine rice milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: If you’re frothing your milk manually, use a small frothing wand or jar with a lid. Give it a good shake or froth until foamy.
Assemble the Dish: Pour your hot or iced espresso into a mug or tall glass. Slowly add in your horchata mixture, then top with warm frothy milk or cream.
Cook to Perfection: No real cooking here—just let the ingredients meld together for a few seconds so the flavors can cozy up.
Finishing Touches: Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or even add a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.
Serve and Enjoy: Sip and smile. This latte tastes like a dreamy café creation, but it’s all yours at home.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2
Calories per serving: Approximately 220
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve Creamy Horchata Latte
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve hot with cinnamon rolls for an ultra-cozy breakfast
- Enjoy iced with a slice of coffee cake or almond biscotti
- Pair with your favorite brunch spread—it fits right in
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Want to go dairy-free? Swap sweetened condensed milk for coconut condensed milk.
- For a more authentic horchata, use homemade rice milk with soaked rice and cinnamon sticks.
- Make it extra creamy with oat milk or almond milk creamer.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a deeper spice profile.
- You can batch-make the horchata mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use store-bought horchata?
Yes, but homemade gives you more control over sweetness and spice.
2. Is this recipe vegan?
Not as written, but you can easily make it vegan by using plant-based condensed milk and cream.
3. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Absolutely! Just make it strong for a bold flavor.
4. How do I froth milk without a frother?
Heat the milk and shake it in a jar with a lid or whisk it vigorously until frothy.
5. Can I make this iced?
Yes! Just pour everything over ice and stir well.
6. Can I make a big batch for guests?
Totally! Just scale up the ingredients and keep the horchata mix chilled.
7. What kind of rice milk is best?
Unsweetened rice milk works best so you can control the sweetness.
8. Can I skip the coffee for a caffeine-free version?
Yes! Just enjoy the horchata on its own or add a caffeine-free alternative.
9. What toppings go well with this latte?
Whipped cream, cinnamon dusting, or even a drizzle of caramel.
10. How long does it last in the fridge?
The horchata base will last up to 5 days—just shake well before using.
CONCLUSION
This Creamy Horchata Latte is the kind of drink that turns your kitchen into a cozy café. Whether you like it hot or cold, this sweet and spiced latte delivers flavor, comfort, and a little moment of joy in every sip. Give it a try—you’ll be making it on repeat!
Print
Creamy Horchata Latte
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 0min
- Total Time: 3hr10min
- Yield: 6servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegan
Description
The Creamy Horchata Latte is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican horchata and bold espresso. This refreshing beverage combines the sweet, spiced flavors of homemade horchata with the rich depth of coffee, creating a perfect drink for any time of the day.
Ingredients
**For the Horchata Base:**
– 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
– 1 oz cinnamon bark (canela)
– 6 cups water
– 3/4 cup simple syrup (1 cup water + 1 cup granulated sugar)
**For the Latte:**
– 4 oz horchata (prepared as above)
– 2 oz strong espresso
– Ice, as needed
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Horchata Base:**
– In a blender, combine the rinsed rice, cinnamon bark, and 3 cups of water. Blend until the rice is broken down into coarse, sand-like particles.
– Transfer the mixture to a large container, add the remaining 3 cups of water, and stir to combine. Cover and let it sit at room temperature for 3 hours.
– After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove solids.
– Stir in the simple syrup to sweeten the horchata. Refrigerate until chilled.
2. **Assemble the Horchata Latte:**
– Fill a serving glass with ice.
– Pour 4 oz of the chilled horchata over the ice.
– Add 2 oz of strong espresso on top.
– Stir gently to combine and enjoy.
Notes
– For a dairy-free version, ensure the simple syrup is prepared without any dairy additives.
– Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup to taste.
– The horchata base can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
– For a warm version, omit the ice and gently heat the horchata before adding espresso.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1glass
- Calories: 150kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg