Molinillos for sale in Oaxaca, Mexico
A molinillo is a traditional turned wood whisk used in Latin America, as well as the Philippines, where it is also called a batirol or batidor. Its use is principally for the preparation of hot beverages such as hot chocolate, atole, cacao, and champurrado. The molinillo is held between the palms and rotated by rubbing the palms together; this rotation creates the froth in the drink. This process is the subject of a popular children's nursery rhyme in Mexico.