When it comes to creamy, cinnamon-spiced liqueurs, Rumchata is the king. The popular brand, which combines Caribbean rum with real dairy cream and a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, has become a staple in bars and homes around the world. However, for various reasons, you may find yourself in need of a Rumchata substitute. Whether you’re avoiding dairy or alcohol, looking for a cheaper alternative, or simply want to try something new, there are several options to explore.
Why look for a Rumchata substitute?
Before we dive into the different alternatives to Rumchata, let’s explore why someone might need or want to substitute it in the first place. Here are a few common reasons:
- Dietary restrictions: Rumchata contains dairy, which means it’s not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. It also has a relatively high calorie count, which may not be ideal for those watching their weight.
- Alcohol-free options: Some people prefer not to drink alcohol, or may want to avoid it for health or personal reasons. Rumchata contains rum, which has a relatively high ABV (alcohol by volume) of 13.75%.
- Availability and cost: Depending on where you live, Rumchata may not be readily available or may be prohibitively expensive. In this case, it makes sense to look for a substitute that’s easier to find or more affordable.
Key components of Rumchata
Before we explore the alternatives to Rumchata, let’s take a closer look at what makes this iconic liqueur so distinctive. Here are the key components:
- Rum: As the name suggests, Rumchata is made with Caribbean rum, which gives it a sweet, boozy kick.
- Cream: Real dairy cream is one of the main ingredients in Rumchata, giving it a rich, velvety texture.
- Cinnamon: Rumchata is spiced with real cinnamon, which adds warmth and depth to its flavor profile.
- Vanilla and sugar: These ingredients help to balance out the flavors and give Rumchata its characteristic sweetness.
Best Rumchata substitutes
Now that we know what we’re looking for, let’s explore some alternatives to Rumchata. Here are five options to consider:
1. Cinnamon Horchata
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative to Rumchata, cinnamon horchata is a great option. Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made with rice milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, and it has a similar creamy texture and spiced flavor profile to Rumchata. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine 1 cup of rice, 4 cups of water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a blender. Blend until the rice is broken down and the cinnamon sticks are mostly ground.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, discarding the solids.
- Add 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the rice milk. Stir until well combined.
- Chill the horchata in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until it’s cold.
- Serve the cinnamon horchata over ice, or use it as a substitute for Rumchata in cocktails or desserts.
2. Cinnamon syrup and heavy cream
If you’re looking for a simple substitute that doesn’t involve making your own liqueur, you can try combining cinnamon syrup with heavy cream. Cinnamon syrup is easy to make and can be used in a variety of cocktails and drinks. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 4 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the syrup for 10-15 minutes, until it’s thickened and the cinnamon flavor has infused.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks from the syrup and let it cool completely.
Once you have your cinnamon syrup, you can combine it with heavy cream to create a creamy, spiced substitute for Rumchata. Simply mix equal parts of cinnamon syrup and heavy cream in a shaker with ice, and strain it into a glass. You can also use this mixture as a substitute for Rumchata in cocktails or desserts.
3. Non-alcoholic cinnamon liqueur
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to Rumchata, you can try making your own cinnamon liqueur using non-alcoholic spirits. There are several options available, such as Seedlip Spice 94, which is a distilled non-alcoholic spirit that has a warm, spiced flavor profile. Here’s how to make a non-alcoholic cinnamon liqueur:
- Combine 1 cup of Seedlip Spice 94, 1 cup of water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 4 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, until it’s thickened and the cinnamon flavor has infused.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks from the mixture and let it cool completely.
This non-alcoholic cinnamon liqueur can be used as a substitute for Rumchata in cocktails or desserts, and it’s also a great option for those who don’t drink alcohol.
4. Baileys Irish Cream with cinnamon
Baileys Irish Cream is another popular cream liqueur that can be used as a substitute for Rumchata. While Baileys doesn’t have the same cinnamon flavor as Rumchata, you can easily add it by infusing the liqueur with cinnamon. Here’s how to make cinnamon-infused Baileys:
- Combine 1 bottle of Baileys Irish Cream with 4 cinnamon sticks in a jar or bottle.
- Let the mixture steep for at least 24 hours, shaking it occasionally to distribute the cinnamon flavor.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the cinnamon sticks.
- Use the cinnamon-infused Baileys as a substitute for Rumchata in cocktails or desserts.
5. Mexican hot chocolate
If you’re looking for a warm and cozy substitute for Rumchata, Mexican hot chocolate is a great option. Mexican hot chocolate is a traditional drink made with chocolate, milk, and spices like cinnamon and chili powder. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine 4 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is hot.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the hot chocolate cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the hot chocolate in mugs, and top each mug with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
This rich and spicy hot chocolate is a perfect substitute for Rumchata on a cold winter night.
6. Cinnamon ice cream
If you’re using Rumchata as an ingredient in a dessert recipe, you can substitute it with cinnamon ice cream. Cinnamon ice cream has a similar flavor profile to Rumchata, and it can be used in a variety of desserts, such as apple pie, bread pudding, and milkshakes. Here’s how to make it:
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 cup of whole milk, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and the sugar has dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze it for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm.
This creamy and spiced ice cream is a perfect substitute for Rumchata in desserts, and it’s also delicious on its own.
7. Spiced coffee
If you’re using Rumchata as a creamer in your coffee, you can substitute it with spiced coffee. Spiced coffee is a simple and delicious way to add some flavor to your morning cup of joe. Here’s how to make it:
- Brew a pot of your favorite coffee.
- While the coffee is brewing, combine 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves in a small bowl.
- Once the coffee is brewed, stir the spice mixture into the coffee.
- Add sugar and cream to taste.
This spiced coffee is a great substitute for Rumchata in your morning routine.
8. Homemade cinnamon liqueur
If you’re up for a DIY challenge, you can try making your own cinnamon liqueur from scratch. Homemade cinnamon liqueur is a great substitute for Rumchata in cocktails and desserts, and it’s a fun project for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine 2 cups of vodka, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a large glass jar or bottle.
- Seal the jar or bottle and shake it vigorously to dissolve the sugar.
- Store the jar or bottle in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week, shaking it occasionally.
- After 1 week, remove the cinnamon sticks from the jar or bottle using a mesh sieve.
- Store the homemade cinnamon liqueur in the refrigerator until ready to use.
This homemade cinnamon liqueur is a great substitute for Rumchata in cocktails and desserts, and it also makes a great gift for friends and family.
9. Cinnamon simple syrup
If you’re looking for a quick and easy substitute for Rumchata in cocktails, cinnamon simple syrup is a great option. Cinnamon simple syrup is made by combining sugar, water, and cinnamon in a saucepan and simmering until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is syrupy. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of water, and 3 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is syrupy, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cinnamon sticks steep in the syrup for at least 30 minutes.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks from the syrup using a mesh sieve.
- Store the cinnamon simple syrup in a jar or bottle in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Cinnamon simple syrup is a versatile substitute for Rumchata in cocktails, and it can be used in a variety of drinks, such as hot toddies, spiced ciders, and cinnamon margaritas.
10. Cream of coconut
If you’re looking for a non-dairy substitute for Rumchata, cream of coconut is a great option. Cream of coconut is a thick and sweet coconut-based product that is often used in tropical cocktails and desserts. Here’s how to use it as a substitute for Rumchata:
- Combine 1 cup of cream of coconut and 1 cup of coconut milk in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Use the coconut mixture as a substitute for Rumchata in cocktails or desserts.
This creamy and coconutty alternative to Rumchata is perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
In conclusion
Rumchata is a delicious and versatile ingredient that adds a creamy and spiced flavor to cocktails and desserts. However, if you can’t find Rumchata at your local liquor store or if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic or non-dairy substitute, there are many alternatives to choose from. Whether you decide to make your own cinnamon liqueur or try a spiced coffee, there’s a substitute out there that will satisfy your cravings. So don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect Rumchata substitute!