There is nothing quite like a tall, icy glass of cantaloupe juice on a warm day. This recipe is light, sweet, and incredibly refreshing, with delicate shreds of melon floating through every sip. It feels nostalgic and joyful, the kind of drink you linger over on a slow summer afternoon.
I love this version because it stays true to that classic Filipino melon sa malamig style. The simple syrup melts smoothly into the juice, the cantaloupe stays bright and fragrant, and the whole pitcher feels like sunshine waiting in the fridge. It is easy, generous, and perfect for sharing.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cool, refreshing, and perfect for hot weather
- Made with real cantaloupe and simple ingredients
- Naturally sweet and easy to adjust to taste
- Beautiful for parties, picnics, or family gatherings
- Can be made ahead and chilled
- A classic summertime drink with a cozy feel
Ingredients
For the Simple Syrup
- 3 cups water
- 3 cups sugar
For the Cantaloupe Juice
- 1 small ripe cantaloupe, halved
- 4 ½ cups water, divided
- 2 cups simple syrup, more or less to taste
- Ice, for serving
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Choose a ripe cantaloupe that smells sweet at the stem end. The better the melon, the more fragrant and flavorful the juice will be.
The simple syrup blends more smoothly than plain sugar, especially when the juice is served cold. You can make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for a few days.
Sweetness is very personal here. Start with less syrup and add more after chilling. Cold drinks often need a little extra sweetness to really shine.
Instructions
- To make the simple syrup, combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to cool completely.
- Scoop the cantaloupe seeds and pulp into a sieve set over a bowl. Run about 1 cup of cold water through the seeds, pressing gently with the back of a spoon to extract any juice. Discard the seeds.
- Using a melon scraper or the edge of a spoon, shred the cantaloupe flesh into long strips directly into the bowl with the collected juice.
- Transfer the shredded melon and juice to a large pitcher. Add the remaining water and sweeten with simple syrup to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until fully chilled.
- Serve over ice with plenty of shredded cantaloupe in each glass.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill the juice fully before adjusting sweetness. Cold dulls sweetness slightly.
- Stir well before serving so the syrup distributes evenly.
- Use plenty of ice for the most refreshing texture.
- Taste again after serving over ice and adjust if needed.
Storage and Reheating
Store cantaloupe juice covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as natural separation can occur.
This drink is meant to be served cold and does not need reheating.
Make Ahead and Freezing
The simple syrup can be made one or two days in advance and kept refrigerated.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the melon changes once thawed.
Tips and Variations
- Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- Mix in sparkling water just before serving for a fizzy twist.
- Reduce syrup and add more water for a lighter version.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh finish.
- Use honey or cane sugar syrup if preferred.
FAQs
It is gently sweet, but you control the sweetness by adjusting the syrup.
You can, but shredding gives the classic texture and visual appeal.
A melon scraper is helpful, but a spoon works just fine.
📖 Recipe
Cantaloupe Juice (Filipino Melon sa Malamig)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Chilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Description
There's nothing more refreshing than a chilled glass of Cantaloupe Juice with juicy strips of melon. This Filipino summertime favorite, known as "Melon sa Malamig," is easy to prepare and wonderfully hydrating.
Ingredients
For the Simple Syrup:
- 3 cups water
- 3 cups sugar
For the Cantaloupe Juice:
- 1 small ripe cantaloupe, halved
- 4 ½ cups water, divided
- 2 cups simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 3 cups water and 3 cups sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer until sugar dissolves, about 3-4 minutes. Let cool completely. Can be stored in the fridge ahead of time.
- Extract Melon Juice: Scoop out seeds and pulp of the cantaloupe into a sieve set over a bowl. Pour 1 cup cold water through the seeds and press with a spoon to extract juice. Discard solids.
- Shred the Melon: Using a melon scraper, shred cantaloupe into strips directly into a bowl along with any juice.
- Combine: Transfer shredded cantaloupe and juice to a pitcher. Add remaining 3½ cups water and 2 cups of simple syrup, or adjust to taste. Chill for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Pour over ice and enjoy chilled with melon strips in every glass!
Notes
- Chilling over ice dilutes sweetness, so adjust syrup to taste before serving.
- Simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
- Use a melon scraper or fork for long, tender strips of melon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cantaloupe juice ice-cold on hot afternoons, alongside grilled meals, or as part of a brunch spread. It pairs especially well with light breakfasts, pastries, or savory snacks.
I love setting a big pitcher on the table and letting everyone help themselves. It feels relaxed, refreshing, and so very summer.
Nutrition and Notes
This recipe makes about eight servings and is meant to be enjoyed as a treat. The sweetness can be adjusted easily to suit your preference.
I have made this many times during warm months, and it never fails to disappear quickly. There is something about that icy melon flavor that keeps everyone coming back for another glass.
Reader Reviews
"So refreshing and nostalgic. Perfect on a hot day."
"The shredded melon makes this so fun to drink."
Related Recipes You'll Love
If you enjoy refreshing drinks, try my Apricot Horchata Made with Dried Apricots for a cozy twist.
You may also like my Mango Smoothie Bowl for another bright, fruit-forward treat.
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