Mexican Atole

Cozy up with a warm mug of rich, creamy, and boldly spiced Mexican atole.?

What Is Atole? 

Atole (??pronounced ah-toh-leh) is a Mexican, masa-based drink with Mayan origins. The creamy beverage is often flavored with cinnamon and is popular during Day of the Dead celebrations and during the holiday season.?

What Is In Atole? 

These are the ingredients you?ll need to make this irresistible Mexican atole recipe:?

• Masa harina: This atole recipe starts with masa harina, a dough flour made from dried corn. It can be found in the international aisle of most U.S. grocery stores or at your local Mexican market.
• Water or milk: You can use water or milk for this rich and creamy recipe. 
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon lends warmth and cozy flavor. 
• Piloncillo: Piloncillo, a type of unrefined sugar, gives the atole sweetness and complexity. Like masa harina, you should be able to find it in the international aisle of your grocery store or at your nearest Mexican market.  
• Vanilla: Take the flavor up a notch with vanilla extract. 

How to Make Atole

You?ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here?s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make Mexican atole at home:?

1. Blend all the ingredients (besides the vanilla) together.?
2. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Lower the temperature and whisk for five minutes.?
4. Remove the atole from the heat and stir in the vanilla.?

Can You Make Atole Ahead of Time? 

It?s best to serve atole immediately. However, if you have leftovers or need to make it ahead of time, you can store atole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. It will thicken over time, so make sure to add a splash of water or milk before reheating to make sure it?s the right consistency.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise 

?I thought for sure that a tablespoon of cinnamon would be too much, but it was perfect,? according to Katherine Naegele. ?Added some cashew cream to my cup, and it was delightful.?

?This is great and I have made it for years,? says Just me. ?I will often use a combination of water/milk and white sugar/brown sugar to alter the flavor.?