The Spiked Pumpkin Horchata is a festive twist on the traditional Mexican drink, blending creamy pumpkin, coconut milk, and spiced rum for a rich and warming beverage. Perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights in, this cocktail is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
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Equipment
- Cheesecloth
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 40 ounces water
- 12 ounces spiced rum
- 8 ounces pumpkin puree
- 8 ounces coconut milk
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup coconut sugar
- Cinnamon sugar for rimming glasses
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
- Start by adding the rice and water to the pitcher of a blender. Blend for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is broken down into small pieces.
- Place the cinnamon stick into the pitcher, cover, and refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- After soaking, strain the rice mixture through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth, positioned over a clean pitcher, to extract the rice milk.
- While the rice milk is straining, combine the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, and coconut sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking continuously, until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the pumpkin mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the strained rice milk, stirring until thoroughly combined.
- To serve, prepare a glass by rimming it with cinnamon sugar. Fill the glass with ice and add 1 ½ ounces of spiced rum. Pour the pumpkin spice horchata over the rum and stir gently with a cinnamon stick.
- Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For an even creamier texture, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Make the horchata ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, then simply add the rum when ready to serve.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less coconut sugar to suit your taste.
Tasting Notes
The Spiked Pumpkin Horchata is a decadent blend of creamy coconut, sweet pumpkin, and warm spices, all enhanced by the rich notes of spiced rum. The cinnamon sugar rim adds an extra touch of sweetness and spice, making each sip a comforting and indulgent treat. This cocktail is both refreshing and cozy, perfect for celebrating the fall season.