This creamy, spiced almond horchata is a refreshing and subtly sweet drink with hints of vanilla and warm pumpkin pie spice. Made with jasmine rice and toasted almonds, this homemade horchata is naturally rich, smooth, and perfect over ice. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy fall-inspired beverage or a refreshing summer treat, this dairy-free, nutty, and aromatic horchata is a must-try!
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Rich & Creamy – A perfect blend of rice, almonds, and sweetened condensed milk.
✔️ Warm & Spiced – Pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon) adds cozy depth.
✔️ Versatile & Make-Ahead – Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔️ Naturally Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free condensed milk for a vegan version.
Ingredients:
Makes 6–8 servings
- ½ cup raw almonds
- 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed once or twice
- 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp. Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt)
- 2 tsp. vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- ½ tsp. pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon), plus more for serving (optional)
- 5 cups room-temperature water
Special Equipment:
- Cheesecloth or a nut milk bag
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Blender
Instructions:
Step 1: Toast the Almonds
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Spread ½ cup raw almonds on a small rimmed baking sheet and toast, stirring occasionally, until slightly darkened and fragrant, about 8–10 minutes.
3️⃣ Let cool completely.
Step 2: Soak the Rice & Almonds
4️⃣ Place the toasted almonds and rinsed jasmine rice in a medium bowl.
5️⃣ Pour 5 cups of water over the mixture.
6️⃣ Let soak for at least 3 hours or up to 1 day. (If soaking longer than 6 hours, cover and refrigerate.)
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
7️⃣ Transfer the soaked rice, almonds, and soaking liquid to a blender.
8️⃣ Add the sweetened condensed milk, salt, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice.
9️⃣ Blend on high speed for about 5 minutes, until very smooth.
Step 4: Strain & Extract the Liquid
🔟 Pour the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a 2-quart jar or pitcher.
🔟 Press on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🔟 Pour the homemade horchata over ice-filled glasses.
🔟 Sprinkle with Collected Foods pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for a finishing touch.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
📌 Make Ahead: Horchata can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
📌 Shake Before Serving: The mixture may separate—just give it a good shake before pouring.
Serving Suggestions
✨ Serve alongside churros, cinnamon rolls, or Mexican pastries.
✨ Use as a base for coffee, cocktails, or lattes.
✨ Enjoy warm or chilled depending on the season!
Why Use Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Pumpkin pie spice adds the perfect blend of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove flavors, enhancing the natural nuttiness of the almonds and richness of the condensed milk.
