Fresh pineapple, lime juice, sugar, and water are blended and then strained to make this fresh pineapple agua fresca. This mouthwatering tropical refresher is as easy to make as it is to drink!
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Nothing beats the heat of a hot summer day like a cool and refreshing drink. If you're looking for a tropical twist on a classic beverage, then look no further than this agua fresca with pineapple!
This delicious Mexican drink, also called agua de piña combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the tartness of lime and the freshness of mint, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
It's easy to make at home with just a few simple, clean ingredients and it's a great way to quench your thirst and satisfy your cravings for something tropical.
If you love it you might also enjoy this dragon fruit lemonade!!
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What is Agua Fresca?
An authentic agua fresca is a true taste of Mexican tradition. Made with mostly fresh ripe fruits. They're juiced or blended with water to preserve their vibrant colors and delightful aromas.
They don't contain artificial additives or lots of sugar. Rather you enjoy the pure sweetness of the fruits.
Ingredients
My favorite thing about making agua fresca is that it uses clean, healthy ingredients so you know exactly what is in every sip and can feel pretty good about it.
For this recipe, you will need:
- Fresh Pineapple: Choose ripe pineapple for the best taste. Since the recipe doesn't add much sugar, the riper the pineapple the sweeter the flavor.
- Lime Juice: Fresh is always best. The lime will add a tangy acidity to the beverage and make it extra refreshing.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds a touch of extra sweetness and balances out any tartness.
- Water: Use cold water for this recipe.
- Ice: Use whatever ice you prefer when serving beverages. I always love using clarified ice or nugget ice.
- Mint: This is optional but really takes the drink up a notch, both in flavor and presentation.
See the recipe card further down the page for the quantities of each ingredient.
Variations
Once you have mastered this classic recipe, it's time to try some other variations!
- Make it sparkling. Use sparkling water for a fresh effervescent version of this beverage.
- Make it spicy. Add a pinch of Tajin or fresh jalapeno to add a touch of spice to the beverage.
- Make it creamy. Add a splash of coconut milk to really take things over the edge and add to the tropical vibes.
- Make an adult version. Spike it with a splash of rum or tequila.
How to Make Pineapple Agua Fresca
Here's an overview of the main steps when making this easy drink recipe. Be sure to check the recipe card for the full details.
- Prep the pineapple. Peel and chop the fresh pineapple into small chunks.
PRO TIP: Be sure to discard the core and any tough parts of the pineapple as they won’t work well in the agua fresca.
- Combine the pineapple, water, sugar, and lime juice in your blender.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and everything is mixed together.
PRO TIP: At this point, give it a taste and adjust the sweetness with more sugar, or add more water if you prefer a lighter drink.
- Strain the blended pineapple mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher. This step removes any pulp or solids that may be remaining.
- Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint and pineapple slices.
Storage
Leftover pineapple agua fresca can be stored in a covered pitcher or container in the fridge for up to five days.
You can also store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw it out on the counter or fridge overnight.
I suggest giving it a good stir before serving it again.
Expert Tips and FAQS
- Choose a very ripe fresh pineapple. This will make for a more naturally sweet and flavorful agua fresca.
- Adjust the flavors to your tastes! Feel free to add more sugar, lime juice, or water to make it just the way you like it!
- Serve it up chilled over ice for the most refreshing flavors! Add pineapple slices, fresh mint, or lime wedges to make a more splashy-looking drink.
No, definitely not! Start by blending the fruit with the water and then give it a taste before adding the sugar. Depending on how sweet you prefer your beverages, if the fruit is extra sweet it may be sweet enough without adding sugar.
No, I really don't recommend it! A true agua fresca is made with fresh fruit and it will taste the best with the fresh pineapple.
More Pineapple Recipes
Did you try this recipe? Please leave a star rating in the recipe card right below! You can also write a review in the comment section further down the page I always appreciate your feedback. And don’t forget to tag me @freshcoasteats in your photos on social media, I'd love to see your results!
Pineapple Agua Fresca
Equipment
- Mesh Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized pineapple peeled and chopped (or 3-4 cups chopped pineapple)
- 4 cups water
- ¼ cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple by peeling and chopping it into small chunks. Discard the core and any tough parts.
- In a blender, add the chopped pineapple, water, sugar, and lime juice. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Taste the aqua fresca and adjust the sweetness with more sugar if desired. You can also adjust the consistency by adding more water if you prefer a lighter drink.
- Strain the pineapple aqua fresca through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher or serving container to remove any pulp or solids.
- When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled pineapple aqua fresca over the ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint and pineapple slices
- Stir the drink gently with a long spoon and enjoy your homemade Pineapple Aqua Fresca! Serve and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Choose a very ripe fresh pineapple. This will make for a more naturally sweet and flavorful agua fresca.
- Adjust the flavors to your tastes! Feel free to add more sugar, lime juice, or water to make it just the way you like it!
- Serve it up chilled over ice for the most refreshing flavors! Add pineapple slices, fresh mint, or lime wedges to make a more splashy-looking drink