Fructose Free Orange Cinnamon Agua Fresca
Fresh, citrusy, and lightly spiced, this agua fresca is the kind of drink that makes you feel like you're sitting somewhere warm and sunny even on an ordinary afternoon. Navel oranges bring natural sweetness and bright flavor, while a quick homemade cinnamon tea adds a subtle warmth that makes the whole thing feel a little more special than your average glass of juice. Managing fructose intake can make fruity drinks tricky, but this recipe leans on a modest amount of orange flesh blended with plenty of water, and maple syrup steps in as the sweetener since it's generally better tolerated than high-fructose alternatives. The fine-mesh straining step is key — it removes the pulp and fiber, leaving you with a smooth, light drink that's easier on digestion without sacrificing any of that gorgeous orange flavor. A pinch of salt rounds everything out and keeps it from tasting flat. It comes together in well under an hour and requires nothing more than a blender, a saucepan, and a strainer. Serve it over ice with a fresh orange wedge and it looks just as good as it tastes.
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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.
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