The flavor is similar to horchata with the consistency of a thin cream of wheat. It is warm, smooth, rich, creamy, flavorful, and satisfying to enjoy for breakfast or an after-dinner drink. When my son took a drink he said, “It tastes like Mexico.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. It has all the aromatic and comforting ingredients of Mexico that is so soothing.
In a large saucepan bring water to a boil with the cinnamon stick and piloncillo. Remove from the heat, cover, and let the cinnamon stick steep and sugar dissolve for about 30 minutes.
Remove the cinnamon stick, return water to low heat, and slowly add the masa harina, whisking until combined. Add milk and vanilla bean with seeds.
Heat over medium heat just until boiling.
Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, whisking occasionally, about 20 minutes.
Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve immediately.
Notes
I encourage you to use real vanilla bean to make this drink. There are pretty black specks that let you know this is something extra special and it makes a world of difference in the flavor of this recipe and is worth the splurge