At Juice It Up!, we’ve always set out to create unique and delicious smoothies that stand out in the world of beverages. Four years ago, we were one of the first to introduce a Horchata Smoothie to our limited time menu–a bold move that has since become a fan favorite and a testament to our commitment to innovation.
The Inspiration Behind the Horchata Smoothie
Horchata is a much loved flavor, especially here in Southern California. Inspired by its popularity, Juice It Up! R&D Director, Noah, created a health conscious version using ingredients already in our stores. Traditional horchata features a blend of rice, vanilla, milk and cinnamon, but Noah found a way to replicate these flavors with a Juice It Up! Twist. Non-fat yogurt was substituted for the vanilla and milk, chia seeds brought a rice-like texture, and cinnamon added the essential spice. Almond milk became the base, pairing perfectly with the cinnamon and vanilla, and dates were added for a natural sweetness and texture.
The Extension of the Horchata Smoothie
Following a successful limited-time run, our Horchata lineup has grown to include delicious variations to satisfy different taste buds. Currently on the menu, Our Classic Horchata Smoothie combines almond milk, non-fat yogurt, dates, banana, cinnamon and chia seeds for a rich, traditional flavor. For a fruity twist, the Strawberry Horchata Smoothie brings fresh strawberries and apple-strawberry juice into the mix, creating a refreshing, fruity option. Past limited-time flavors have also included unique options like cold brew and peanut butter horchata—each adding a delicious spin to this beloved favorite.
Why the Horchata Smoothie Stands Out
The launch of the Horchata Smoothie brought both excitement and curiosity. Our customers loved seeing a nostalgic flavor in a new, health conscious way. Whether you’re a lifelong horchata fan or trying it for the first time, our Horchata Smoothie delivers a refreshing, wholesome twist.
“We’re incredibly proud of the success our Horchata lineup has seen,” says Susan Taylor Juice It Up! President and CEO. “Our guests’ enthusiasm fuels our drive to create unique menu items that keep them coming back for more”.
As we celebrate four years of the Horchata Smoothie, we look forward to continuing this journey of blending tradition and creativity. Here’s to many more years of flavor innovation, pushing the boundaries of what a smoothie can be! Try a Horchata Smoothie today at your nearest location!