Citric Acid Free Orange Cinnamon Agua Fresca
Bright, lightly spiced, and refreshingly smooth, this agua fresca is the kind of drink that makes a hot afternoon feel instantly more manageable. The base is built from fresh navel orange segments blended with a homemade cinnamon tea — a clever little step that infuses the whole drink with warm, aromatic depth without relying on any packaged flavoring or citric acid additives. That matters more than it sounds, because citric acid shows up as a preservative or flavor enhancer in a surprising number of bottled juices and drink mixes, making store-bought options tricky to trust. Here, maple syrup adds just enough sweetness to balance the natural brightness of the oranges, and a pinch of salt pulls everything together in a way that feels polished rather than plain. The blending and straining process gives you a silky, pulp-free texture that's genuinely satisfying to sip. Serve it over a big glass of ice with an orange wedge on the rim and it looks as good as it tastes.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 large navel oranges, peeled and segmented (about 3 cups flesh)
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp fine salt
For the cinnamon tea
- 1 cup water, for the cinnamon tea
For serving
- ice, for serving
- orange slices or wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the cinnamon stick and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until the water is lightly amber and fragrant. Remove from heat and let the cinnamon tea cool for 15 minutes, then discard the cinnamon stick.
- 2
Add the orange segments, cooled cinnamon tea, 2 cups cold water, maple syrup, and salt to a blender. Blend on high for 30–45 seconds, until completely smooth.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!