Cashew Horchata
Creamy Cashew Horchata made with rice, cashews, cinnamon, and orange zest. A refreshing, dairy-free drink that’s smooth, fragrant, and easy to make.
Servings 4 Servings
Ingredients
- ½ cup long grain white rice I used jasmine, uncooked
- 1 ¼ cups water warm
- 1 cup cashews raw & unsalted
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp orange zest optional
- 4 cups water
- ⅔ cup sugar or more to taste
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add the rice to a blender, cover and blend until it becomes powdery. Add to a large bowl, with raw cashews, cinnamon sticks, orange zest and star anise. Add warm water and let soak for at least 6 hours, or overnight, allowing the ingredients to soften and infuse.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks and star anise, then transfer the rice mixture with the soaking liquid and 2 cups water to a high-speed blender. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy.
- Pour through a fine mesh strainer with 3 layers of cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a large pitcher, pressing or squeezing gently to extract every bit of liquid. Discard the solids.
- Stir in remaining 2 cups water, 2/3 cup sugar, and vanilla extract. Taste and add more sugar or a splash more vanilla extract if desired. Refrigerate until cold, at least 2 hours.
- Stir before serving (it naturally separates), then pour over ice and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a twist of orange zest.
Notes
Tips for Storing
- Keep refrigerated in a sealed glass jar or pitcher for up to 4 days.
- Shake or stir before serving since natural separation will occur.
- Freeze in ice cube trays for adding to iced coffee or smoothies.
- Avoid heating — this drink is best enjoyed chilled.
- Label with the date so you always know when it was made.
Nutrition
Calories: 398kcal | Carbohydrates: 63g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 21mg | Potassium: 254mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 3mg
