Black Pepper Free Peppermint Cocoa Agua Fresca
Cool, refreshing, and surprisingly sophisticated, this drink layers real peppermint and rich cocoa into a lightly sweetened agua fresca that feels like a treat without being heavy. The base comes together on the stovetop in just a few minutes — cocoa powder and maple syrup dissolve into a smooth, fragrant concentrate before fresh peppermint leaves are steeped right in. That steeping step is where the magic happens, pulling bright, herbal flavor into the liquid without any artificial extracts or flavoring. Once strained and chilled with the remaining cold water, the result is a beautifully balanced drink that's earthy, minty, and just sweet enough. For anyone navigating a black pepper sensitivity, this recipe is naturally in the clear — there's nothing hidden here, just clean, whole ingredients you can see and trust. Serve it over ice with a fresh mint sprig and it looks as good as it tastes, making it a great option for guests or a quiet afternoon treat.
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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.
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