How to Craft a Bar-Quality Café Arroz at Home

How to Craft a Bar-Quality Café Arroz at Home

Calendar Icon January 19, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

The Café Arroz is a delicious blend that brings a Mexican flair to the classic White Russian. By swapping out vodka for tequila and incorporating horchata, this cocktail offers a sweet, creamy experience with a hint of spice. It's a perfect choice for those who love to explore new flavors and enjoy a rich, indulgent drink.

Originating as a creative twist on the beloved White Russian, the Café Arroz embraces the spirit of Mexican cuisine by using horchata—a traditional rice milk beverage known for its sweet and cinnamon-laced flavor. Combined with Kahlúa Especial, this cocktail is a celebration of the rich and vibrant tastes of Mexico.

Whether you're a fan of tequila or simply looking to expand your cocktail repertoire, the Café Arroz is a must-try. Its creamy texture and balanced sweetness make it a versatile drink, perfect for both casual gatherings and festive occasions.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Horchata
  • 1.5 oz Reposado Tequila
  • 0.5 oz Especial
  • 1 Grated Cinnamon
  • 1 Kahlúa Especial

To craft a Café Arroz that rivals any bar-quality cocktail, gather these flavorful ingredients:

  • 2 oz Horchata: Opt for a homemade or high-quality store-bought horchata to ensure a rich, authentic flavor.
  • 1.5 oz Reposado Tequila: Choose a smooth Reposado tequila to add depth and a subtle oakiness to the drink.
  • 0.5 oz Especial: Kahlúa Especial brings a more intense coffee flavor compared to the original, enhancing the cocktail's richness.
  • 1 Grated Cinnamon: Freshly grated cinnamon adds an aromatic touch and visual appeal.

Instructions

Creating a Café Arroz is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect balance of flavors:

  1. Shake with ice.
  2. Fine-strain over a large ice cube in a chilled rocks glass.
  3. Garnish with grated cinnamon.

Tips

  • Chill your rocks glass in advance to keep the cocktail cool and refreshing.
  • For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the shaker.
  • Experiment with different types of horchata, such as almond or coconut, for a unique twist.
  • Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of Kahlúa Especial according to your taste preference.

Conclusion

The Café Arroz is a testament to the creativity and versatility of cocktail mixing, combining the rich flavors of Mexico with the classic appeal of a White Russian. It's a drink that's sure to impress guests and delight your taste buds.

Ready to explore more unique cocktails and refine your mixology skills? Download the BarBot app to discover a world of recipes, log your cocktail creations, and share your experiences with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a curious novice, BarBot is your gateway to mastering the art of cocktail making. Cheers to new adventures in flavor!

Café Arroz recipe adapted from Meehan's Bartender Manual by Jim Meehan.