
Horchata ice cream is a creamy frozen dessert that blends the traditional Mexican horchata drink—typically made from rice, cinnamon, and vanilla—into a rich ice cream base. It often includes ingredients like rice milk, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a sweet, aromatic treat with a smooth texture. This dessert is a popular variation found in Mexican and Mexican-American cuisine, especially during warm weather.
Horchata ice cream is generally high in carbohydrates and fat due to its sugar and dairy content, with minimal protein. A single serving (about ½ cup) typically provides around 200-250 calories, along with some calcium and small amounts of iron from the rice and cinnamon.
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbs | 20 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 30 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Phosphorus | 45 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.08 mg |
| Magnesium | 15 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
Per 1/2 cup (120 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
What makes horchata ice cream unique is its cultural fusion, transforming a beloved traditional beverage into a frozen dessert that preserves the iconic cinnamon-vanice flavor profile. Nutritionally, it offers a plant-based twist when made with rice milk, making it a dairy-free alternative that still delivers a creamy, indulgent experience.