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Dairy-free horchata in a cup, close up.
This Dairy-Free Horchata blends cozy spices and creamy plant-based milks into a naturally sweet, refreshing drink.
Dairy-free horchata in a cup, close up.
Introduction by: Isabella Mead

Horchata combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla into a creamy drink. And with this Dairy-Free Horchata recipe, you can make it in under five minutes. It’s tasty, comforting, and sure to become your new favorite treat. 

Traditional horchata gets its creamy texture from rice water, but we’ve made a healthier, Dairy-Free Horchata using full-fat coconut milk and almond milk. Don’t have almond milk on hand? No problem—any Paleo alternative like pistachio milk or cashew milk will work just as well. You can also make your own homemade almond milk at home using just 1 cup of almonds and filtered water. 

We recommend using organic Ceylon cinnamon to spice your horchata. Cassia cinnamon has a greater chance of being contaminated with harmful substances like lead, and has higher levels of naturally occurring coumarin, which may cause digestive upset in some individuals. In contrast, consuming enough Ceylon cinnamon can help regulate healthy blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity.1 

TIP: If you’re craving something refreshing on a hot day but still want that creamy, sweet flavor, turn your horchata into a frozen treat. Just add 1 or 2 cups of ice with the ingredients and blend until it reaches a smooth, slushy consistency. It’s the perfect way to cool down while still enjoying all the comforting flavors of a classic horchata. 

Dietary Restrictions: Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) omissions and substitutions are listed in the recipe ingredients. 

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Dairy-Free Horchata

  • Serves: 4
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
Print this Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups full-fat coconut milk 

  • 2 1/2 cups almond milk (AIP – omit or sub)

  • 4 tbsp Ceylon cinnamon

  • 4 tbsp nutmeg (AIP – omit or sub)

  • 4 tsp vanilla extract 

  • 2 tbsp maple syrup

  • 4 cinnamon sticks

Directions

  1. Add all ingredients except cinnamon sticks to a blender and blend until smooth and fully combined.

  2. Divide horchata between 4 glasses, garnishing each with a cinnamon stick.

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