Christmas Horchata

1.In a blender, combine the rice, water, and cinnamon stick. Blend until the rice is broken into small pieces, about 1 minute.

2.Let the rice mixture sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

3.After soaking, remove the cinnamon stick and blend the rice mixture until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.

4.Strain the blended rice mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or a nut milk bag into a pitcher.

5.Discard the rice pulp and cinnamon stick.

6.Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and milk into the pitcher.

7.Refrigerate the horchata for at least 2 hours to chill.

8.Before serving, stir the horchata well and pour into glasses over ice.

9.Top each glass with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

10.Enjoy the festive Christmas horchata with friends and family!