Horchata Ice Pops are a delightful frozen treat that combines the traditional flavors of horchata with the fun of a popsicle. Perfect for hot summer days, these creamy, cinnamon-infused ice pops are not only refreshing but also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and unique dessert that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is great for those looking for a fun way to enjoy the classic Mexican beverage, horchata, in a new form. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to make these Horchata Ice Pops!
Ingredients
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 1 cup of water
- 4 cups of milk (can use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- Popsicle molds
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Rice
Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a bowl, combine the rinsed rice and 1 cup of water, and let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will help to soften the rice and enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
After soaking, drain the rice and place it in a blender. Add the 4 cups of milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
To achieve a smooth texture, strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl. This will remove any rice solids, leaving you with a creamy horchata base for your ice pops.
Step 4: Pour into Molds
Carefully pour the strained horchata mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion as they freeze. If desired, you can add small pieces of cinnamon sticks or rice to the molds for an added touch.
Step 5: Freeze the Pops
Insert the popsicle sticks into the molds and place them in the freezer. Allow the ice pops to freeze for at least 6 hours, or until completely solid.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Once frozen, remove the Horchata Ice Pops from the molds by running them under warm water for a few seconds. Enjoy these refreshing treats on a hot day, or serve them at parties for a unique dessert option!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk for Horchata Ice Pops?
Yes! You can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk to make a dairy-free version of Horchata Ice Pops.
How long do Horchata Ice Pops last in the freezer?
Horchata Ice Pops can last in the freezer for up to 2 months if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I add other flavors to my Horchata Ice Pops?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding flavors like chocolate, vanilla bean, or even fruit purees to customize your Horchata Ice Pops.
Are Horchata Ice Pops suitable for kids?
Yes, these ice pops are a kid-friendly treat! They are made with natural ingredients and can be adjusted to your desired level of sweetness.