Agua de Melón, also known as Melon con Leche, is a traditional Mexican beverage that’s perfect for hot summer days. This creamy and sweet cantaloupe drink combines fresh fruit, milk, and sugar to create a refreshing treat that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Cool and Refreshing: A chilled glass of Agua de Melón is a fantastic way to beat the heat.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or alongside your favorite Mexican dishes.
- Easy to Make: Just blend, chill, and serve!
Ingredients
- 1 medium ripe cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 2 cups milk (whole, almond, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup cold water
- 1/3 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ice cubes (optional)
Full ingredient details and substitutions below.
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Melon
Slice the cantaloupe in half, remove the seeds, and scoop out the flesh. Chop it into smaller pieces for easy blending.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine the cantaloupe, milk, water, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Strain (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother texture, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve over ice cubes for an extra refreshing drink.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Pick the Perfect Cantaloupe: Look for a melon that feels heavy for its size, with a sweet aroma and slightly soft skin at the stem end.
- Adjust Sweetness: The sugar amount can vary depending on the sweetness of the cantaloupe. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Extra Creamy: Add a splash of sweetened condensed milk for a richer flavor.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a lactose-free version.
Variations
- Agua Fresca Version: Replace milk with water for a lighter, more traditional agua fresca.
- Melon Smoothie: Add a banana or a handful of ice for a thicker, smoothie-like drink.
- Spicy Twist: Garnish with a dash of chili powder or Tajín for a sweet-and-spicy treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair It With: Mexican snacks like tamales, tacos, or tostadas. It also complements spicy dishes beautifully.
- Garnish: Top with a sprig of mint or a slice of cantaloupe for a decorative touch.
- Occasions: Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a refreshing drink for a summer fiesta.
Storage
- In the Fridge: Store in an airtight pitcher for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving as separation is natural.
- Freezing Tip: Freeze leftovers in popsicle molds for a creamy cantaloupe treat.
FAQs
1. Can I use honeydew instead of cantaloupe?
Yes, honeydew works well and provides a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
2. How do I make this drink vegan?
Use plant-based milk and sweeten with agave or maple syrup.
3. Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare it the night before, store it in the fridge, and give it a quick stir before serving.
4. What if I don’t have a blender?
Mash the cantaloupe by hand and mix with the milk, water, and sugar. The texture will be chunkier but still delicious.
Conclusion
Agua de Melón is a delightful summer drink that’s simple to make yet bursting with fresh, fruity flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to cool off, this creamy and refreshing beverage will become a staple in your home. Give it a try, and sip your way to a taste of Mexico!
Print
Agua de Melón (Melon con Leche) – A Refreshing Mexican Summer Drink
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Agua de Melon (also known as Melon con Leche) is a traditional Mexican summer drink that combines the natural sweetness of cantaloupe with the creaminess of milk. Perfect for hot days, this easy-to-make beverage is both hydrating and delightfully smooth.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for extra creaminess)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cantaloupe:
- Place the cantaloupe cubes in a blender. Add 2 cups of water and blend until smooth.
- Strain (Optional):
- For a smoother texture, strain the blended cantaloupe through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
- Mix the Drink:
- Add the remaining 2 cups of water, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract (if using) to the pitcher. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Chill and Serve:
- Add ice cubes to glasses and pour the Agua de Melon over them. Serve immediately and enjoy
Notes
- For a non-dairy version, use almond milk or coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a unique flavor twist.
- This drink can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg