1. Prepare the Corn:

• If using fresh corn: Cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. You should have about 2 cups of kernels. If using frozen corn, measure out 2 cups of frozen corn.
• Place the corn kernels in a blender and add 1 cup of milk. Blend until smooth, making a corn puree. If you want a smoother consistency, you can strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining bits of corn. However, leaving some texture is traditional for Atol de Elote.

2. Cook the Corn Puree:

• Pour the corn puree into a medium-sized pot and add the remaining 3 cups of milk. Stir well to combine.
• Place the pot over medium heat and add the cinnamon stick. Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Thicken the Atol:

• In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of milk (from the 3 cups of milk) to create a smooth slurry.
• Once the corn mixture is simmering, add the cornstarch slurry to the pot while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the Atol de Elote.
• Continue to cook the mixture for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding a bit more milk if it becomes too thick or by letting it cook longer if you prefer it thicker.

4. Sweeten and Flavor:

• Add the sugar to the pot, along with a pinch of salt, and stir to dissolve. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
• Stir in the vanilla extract and remove the cinnamon stick.

5. Serve:

• Pour the Atol de Elote into cups or mugs while it’s still warm. It can be served as a breakfast drink or as a sweet treat after dinner.
• Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for added flavor and decoration.

Tips:

• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference. Some versions of Atol de Elote use condensed milk for extra richness and sweetness, but the recipe provided uses regular sugar for simplicity.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thinner drink, simply reduce the amount of cornstarch or add more milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Corn Varieties: Some recipes use cornmeal (masa harina) instead of pure corn kernels, which can provide a smoother texture. The fresh corn method gives a more authentic and homemade feel.
• Vegan Version: For a dairy-free version, substitute almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk for the cow’s milk. You can also use a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup or maple syrup instead of sugar.