Horchata Latte Recipe to Spice Up Your Coffee Routine

A horchata cold brew oat latte glass

Discovering the Horchata Latte has become my new obsession, blending two distinct flavors into a harmonious delight. As someone who has always been captivated by the smooth and creamy allure of a classic latte, this drink was a game-changer for my coffee routine.

Horchata Latte recipe

Horchata latte is a delightful beverage that combines horchata with espresso, creating a smooth and creamy coffee experience. Horchata is a traditional beverage that originates from Spain and is also popular in Latin America. It’s made from a variety of ingredients depending on the region, including ground almonds, rice, or tiger nuts, and flavored with spices such as cinnamon and sometimes vanilla.

Iced Horchata Latte
Iced Horchata Latte recipe

The marriage of latte with the sweet and nutty flavors of horchata creates a delightful fusion that will satisfy you. The cinnamon-infused rice milk adds a unique twist to the classic latte, elevating it to a whole new level. The drink is known for its refreshing qualities and is especially popular in hot weather.

If you’re a fan of latte, you’ll love this drink. Here’s how to make Horchata Latte :

A horchata cold brew oat latte glass

Horchata Latte

A delightful fusion drink that combines the creamy, cinnamon-spiced flavors of horchata with the rich, boldness of espresso. Perfect for morning drinks or as an afternoon pick-me-up
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine African, American, Spanish
Servings 2
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups milk of your choice whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk work well
  • 2 shots of espresso or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
  • Ice cubes if serving cold

Instructions
 

Make Horchata

  • Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water.
  • In a blender, combine the rinsed rice, water, and cinnamon stick.
  • Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the rice is broken down but not completely smooth.
  • Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to soften.
  • After soaking, remove the cinnamon stick and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher.
  • Add sugar to the strained liquid and stir until dissolved. Adjust sweetness according to your taste preference.
  • Chill the horchata in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Make Horchata Latte

  • In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk until it’s warm but not boiling.
  • Divide the warm milk between two serving glasses.
  • Pour one shot of espresso or 1/4 cup of strong brewed coffee into each glass. Stir gently to combine the coffee and milk.
  • Add ice cubes if serving cold.
  • Pour chilled horchata over the coffee-milk mixture.
  • Stir lightly to blend all the flavors.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top

Notes

Adding vanilla extract or cocoa can provide additional depth to the drink’s flavor profile
Keyword coffee, homemade, horchata latte, iced coffee

Whole milk provides the creamiest texture and richest mouthfeel, complementing the rice and cinnamon notes of horchata. However, you can choose other milk alternatives to suit your preferences.

  • Almond milk
  • Soy milk
  • Oat milk
  • Coconut milk

The milk you choose plays a crucial role in determining the overall profile of your latte. Here’s a quick guide to help you select the perfect milk for your taste preferences:

  • For a traditional, creamy latte: Whole dairy milk or oat milk
  • For a lighter, refreshing option: Almond milk or 1% dairy milk
  • For a protein boost: Soy milk
  • For a tropical twist: Coconut milk

Variations

1. Regional and Cultural Adaptations

Different regions have put their unique spin on this delightful drink, incorporating local ingredients and traditions.

  • In Spain, horchata de chufa, made from tiger nuts, forms the base of a unique variation called “Horchata Latte Valenciana.” This version offers a nuttier profile and smoother texture compared to its rice-based counterpart.
  • Mexican-inspired variations often incorporate a touch of vanilla and sometimes even chocolate, creating a rich, dessert-like beverage.

2. Seasonal Flavors

You can change the flavor of this latte when the season changes. Some popular seasonal horchata latte variations include:

  • Spring: Lavender Horchata Latte
  • Summer: Iced Mango Horchata Blend
  • Autumn: Pumpkin Spice Horchata Fusion
  • Winter: Gingerbread Horchata Delight

How to pair

1. Breakfast Pairings

Horchata latte, with its creamy texture and warm spices, complements a variety of breakfast foods. Its unique flavor profile can enhance the dining experience when paired with both sweet and savory options. Some ideal breakfast pairings for the latte include:

  • Cinnamon rolls: The shared cinnamon notes create a harmonious flavor experience
  • Breakfast burritos: The creamy latte balances the savory, spicy flavors
  • Fruit-filled pastries: The coffee’s richness complements the fruity sweetness
  • Oatmeal with nuts and dried fruits: The latte’s spices enhance the nutty, fruity flavors

2. Dessert Pairings

The warm spices and coffee notes of this beverage provide a perfect counterpoint to a wide range of sweet treats. Consider these dessert pairings:

  • Churros: The cinnamon sugar coating echoes the latte’s spices
  • Flan: The creamy custard complements the latte’s smooth texture
  • Almond cookies: The nutty flavors harmonize with the horchata base
  • Dark chocolate truffles: The bitter-sweet chocolate balances the latte’s sweetness

3. Snack Ideas

This drink pairs beautifully with light snacks that complement its flavor profile without overwhelming the palate.

  1. Spiced nuts almonds, pecans, or walnuts
  2. Biscotti almond or vanilla-flavored
  3. Rice crackers with a light cheese spread
  4. Fresh fruit slices apples or pears
  5. Cinnamon-dusted popcorn

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