Blended drinks called batidas (or licuados) are served at fruit bars throughout Latin America. Milk or freshly squeezed orange juice is used as the base, then fruit is added and the mixture is blended to the consistency of a thick shake. Batidas are often enjoyed as a mid-morning or afternoon snack, but they're also delicious as cocktails later in the day. We tried various kinds of sugar to rim the glasses — from coarse crystals of sanding sugar to small grains of granulated sugar — and the only difference is in the appearance.

Ingredients

For glass decoration:

　　1/4 cup sanding (also called decorative) or granulated sugar

For batidas:

　　2 cups ice cubes

　　1 cup whole milk

　　5 tablespoons granulated sugar

　　1/4 cup white rum

　　2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

　　1/8 teaspoon salt

　　Garnish: 4 lime slices

Decorate glasses:

Step 1

Make batidas:

Step 2

Step 3