If you’re looking for the ultimate agua fresca recipe, you’re in for a treat! This light and fruity Mexican drink is my go-to for cooling off when the heat kicks in. Made with fresh fruit, water, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a breeze to blend up and even easier to customize. Whether you’re craving watermelon, pineapple, or something totally unique, I’ll show you exactly how to whip up your own refreshing version at home.
Table of contents
What is Agua Fresca?
“Agua fresca” translates to “fresh water,” and that’s exactly what it is, a non-alcoholic Mexican drink made with fresh fruit (or sometimes seeds or flowers), blended with cold water, a bit of sweetener, and a splash of lime. It’s light, hydrating, and just the right amount of sweet. You’ll often find it in Mexican households, street markets, and taquerías served ice-cold in large glass jugs.
Unlike smoothies or juice, agua fresca is less thick, usually unstrained to keep the fiber and nutrients, and much lower in sugar than soda or store-bought juices.
Recipe Card
Agua Fresca Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes80
kcalThis easy agua fresca recipe blends fresh fruit, water, lime juice, and a touch of sweetener into the most refreshing drink you’ll sip all summer long. Perfectly customizable and ready in 5 minutes!
Ingredients
4 cups fresh, ripe fruit (chopped)
3 cups cold water
1/4 cup sweetener (sugar, honey, agave, or your choice)
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
Ice, for serving
Directions
- Blend the fruit. Add the fruit, water, sweetener, and lime juice to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
- Strain (optional). If you prefer a pulp-free drink, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher. Use a spoon to press out all the liquid.
- Taste and adjust. Add more water if too thick, or more lime/sweetener if needed.
- Serve cold. Pour over ice and garnish with fruit slices or fresh mint if desired.
Notes
- Use super ripe fruit for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- You can skip straining if you prefer a more fiber-rich drink.
- Try adding fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist.
Tip: Avoid overly seedy or thick fruits like bananas or berries with large seeds unless strained well.
Flavor Variations You’ll Love
- Watermelon Lime: 4 cups watermelon + 1/4 cup lime juice + mint leaves.
- Strawberry Cucumber: 2 cups strawberries + 2 cups cucumber + honey + lime.
- Pineapple Ginger: 4 cups pineapple + 1 tsp grated ginger + agave.
- Hibiscus Jamaica: Brew 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers in 2 cups hot water, strain, then mix with 2 cups cold water, sugar, and lime.
Tips for the Perfect Agua Fresca Recipe
- Use ripe, in-season fruit for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Blend thoroughly to extract the most juice.
- Adjust sweetness gradually, start small and taste as you go.
- Chill before serving or use ice to cool instantly.
- Add herbs like mint or basil for a fresh twist.
- Try sparkling water instead of flat for a bubbly version!
Serving & Storage
Agua fresca is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in a covered pitcher, and stir before serving as natural separation will occur. Add ice just before serving to keep it cold and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions About Agua Fresca Recipe
Absolutely! Just let it thaw slightly before blending. You may need to reduce the added water a bit since frozen fruit releases more liquid as it blends.
Not at all, straining is optional. Unstrained agua fresca keeps more fiber and nutrients, but if you prefer a smoother drink, go ahead and strain it.
It’s best fresh, but you can store it in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Watermelon is the most classic and easiest to blend. It’s hydrating, naturally sweet, and perfect for first-timers.
Yes! If your fruit is naturally sweet and ripe, you may not need any added sugar. Taste first, and sweeten only if needed.
Sip, Chill, and Get Creative
And there you have it, your go-to agua fresca recipe, ready to keep you cool and hydrated! Whether you stick with a refreshing classic like watermelon-lime or experiment with cucumber-mint or hibiscus-ginger blends, it’s an easy and fun way to enjoy fresh fruit.
If you’re in the mood for more drink inspiration, try our super popular Cucumber Salad with Vinegar, it’s crisp and hydrating like a savory agua fresca in salad form! You can also keep things cool with our Strawberry Freezer Jam, which pairs perfectly with chilled drinks, or explore unique summer blends starting with Lipton Onion Dip, a party classic to serve alongside your agua fresca.
Cheers to more flavor, more freshness, and more fun in your kitchen with the sunny days ahead!
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