Barley Free Peppermint Cocoa Agua Fresca
Cool, minty, and deeply chocolatey, this agua fresca is the kind of drink that surprises you in the best way. It starts with a quick stovetop bloom of unsweetened cocoa powder and maple syrup, which gives the base a rich, velvety depth before fresh peppermint leaves steep in and brighten everything up. The result is a chilled, refreshing pitcher drink that feels indulgent without being heavy — perfect over a big glass of ice on a warm afternoon. Because the whole thing is built from whole, simple ingredients like cocoa, maple syrup, and fresh herbs, there's no need to scrutinize labels for hidden grain-based additives or fillers. Straining out the peppermint leaves keeps the texture clean and smooth, so every sip is silky and clear. It's an easy make-ahead drink that looks stunning with a fresh mint sprig on top, and it genuinely tastes like a fancy café creation you pulled off in your own kitchen.
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
- 4 cups cold water, divided
- 8 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ cup fresh peppermint leaves, loosely packed
- ⅛ tsp fine sea salt
For serving
- ice cubes, for serving
- 4 fresh peppermint sprigs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine 1 cup of the cold water with the cocoa powder and maple syrup in a small saucepan. Whisk over medium heat until the cocoa is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and just beginning to steam, about 3–4 minutes — do not let it boil.
- 2
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the peppermint leaves and fine sea salt, stir once to submerge the leaves, and let steep for 10 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!