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starbucks horchata syrup

Starbucks Horchata Syrup

A cinnamon-spiced copycat syrup inspired by Starbucks' seasonal horchata drinks. Made with rice, cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar, this easy homemade version costs just $1.20 per batch compared to $6.95 at the store.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 60
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup long-grain white rice Creates the authentic horchata base and adds subtle nutty, creamy flavor without dairy
  • 2 cups warm water For soaking; softens the rice to release starches and flavor compounds
  • 2 sticks cinnamon sticks Or 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon; the dominant spice note that defines horchata flavor

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Combine rice, warm water, and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20 minutes, allowing the rice to soften and release its starches and flavor compounds.
  1. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer, reserving the liquid and discarding the rice and cinnamon sticks.
  1. Return the strained liquid to the saucepan and stir in vanilla extract and sugar until fully dissolved.
  1. Allow the syrup to cool completely before transferring to a storage container. Refrigerate for up to three weeks.